WABL Wrap Week 11 – 03/7/22
Round 11 – All of our athletes have worked so hard up to this point in the season that we decided we would give them next weekend off. Enjoy the down time Suns!
All of our “Player of the Game” superstars will receive a FREE PIZZA from our friends at Domino’s Kalamunda – Thanks Guys!
Players of the round:
Kaia Rukuata (U14 Girls) – This week our POTR is Kaia Rukuata. Kaia pressured the ball in the half, got back well as goal tender, bumped players up on the ball, her quick hands were able to get steals or deflections to team mates and doubled on players at critical times. Kaia had a solid effort this week on both ends of the floor showing her dominance by going to work in the post and moving the ball well out of the post.
Asten Lund (U12 Boys) – This week the player of the round was Asten. I challenged Asten to stick within the systems and take advantage of his natural athletic gifts and he responded very well. Asten should feel buoyed by his performance, particularly his offensive rebounding. I can’t fault Asten for his continual desire to learn and his attitude is exceptional. Asten was one of only a couple of players who won their individual match-ups, along the way, finding that when he operates within a structure, he finds scoring a little easier. Well done Asten.
U12 GIRLS (LAWRENCE WEST)
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (47 – 33)
COACHES NOTES
Facing a quality Hawks team with several of our team carrying injuries we knew a massive team effort was required, so this week for us was all about energy. Playing with intensity from the opening tip, being relentless on defense and giving a 2nd, 3rd and 4th effort on every play. We celebrated each other’s successes with huge energy (and noise!) from the bench, and the result was a great team win. We shot the ball well and made great decisions on when to give up a good shot for a great shot.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Sometimes you know you just need to go to work. Amber did that for us this week with a season high 18 points (at an insane 69% FG%) , as well as several rebounds, steals and blocks! Amber is always willing to do the “dirty work”, whether its diving on a loose ball or fighting for a rebound under the basket. This season Amber has made a huge leap in her development and these kinds of performances are becoming a regular occurrence. It’s great to see her hard work paying off – well done superstar!
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Having to tell the bench to be “keep it down” because they are cheering too loud for their team mates is a great problem to have. It’s nice to see this wonderful group of girls forming close friendships that are becoming bigger than basketball, and will hopefully last a very long time.
U12 BOYS (LIZZIE FALCONBRIDGE)
Won against Joondalup Wolves (52 – 36)
COACHES NOTES
The team chemistry is getting better week by week and this is reflected on the court. Unselfish offence with great passing, always trying to find the best shot – not the best scorer. We don’t need stars in the team, we just need everyone to star in their role. Our team assists are going up every week due to the trust in the team, we should only see this blossom with more games. The end score line doesn’t show how tough the game was, the Wolves played fantastic defence and were just unlucky on the offensive end with some shots. It was great challenge for the boys but very happy to see them not crumble under the pressure.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Adrian Mok – Plays every game with the same mindset and is not worried about personal stats. Although AJ is a very quiet achiever on the court, it great to see him take more of leadership role on both ends, as the team looks for him more to control our offensive sets. Great to see his confidence coming out after taking and hitting another dagger 3 pointer to ice the game for two weeks straight and consistent on the defensive end forcing 10 turnovers which lead to easy buckets.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Elisha Dixon – Since breaking his thumb in preseason, Elisha has had a few ups and downs this season but its great to see him being persistent and working hard every week – regardless of his court time. From a coaching perspective it was pleasing to see him finally play at his best. Smiles’s defensive pressure and IQ is improving week by week as he puts in the time at our training sessions. We are so happy to see him back to having fun and enjoying the game.
Leyton Rooke – His new nickname is now ‘Mr Double Double’. Another solid performance with 14 points and 14 rebounds, another player who is not worried about his own stat line. His decision making on court is improving every week as he puts in the time at training and listens to instructions.
U12 BOYS (JOEL WARNER)
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (34 – 72)
COACHES NOTES
Although this was a particularly tough game against good opposition, I was pleased that we achieved several in-team goals in the second half. The Team responded in the third quarter with better offensive structures which allowed us to score more in that quarter than we had in the whole first half. In the second half, we used some of our offensive transition to score in the open court, and I was pleased for the boys that competed well and won their individual match-ups. Despite not winning the game there were a couple of players that stood tall for our Team and had some individual success against their opponents.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
This week the player of the round was Asten. I challenged Asten to stick within the systems and take advantage of his natural athletic gifts and he responded very well. Asten should feel buoyed by his performance, particularly his offensive rebounding. I can’t fault Asten for his continual desire to learn and his attitude is exceptional. Asten was one of only a couple of players who won their individual match-ups, along the way, finding that when he operates within a structure, he finds scoring a little easier. Well done Asten.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Intangible assets on the sporting field are very important and this week, I drew some positives from that area. Our Team leaders pushed our players well in the time-outs and at breaks. Our Co-Captains, Chad and Sam were unified and loud when encouraging their team-mates, even when we were behind on the score-board. Although we didn’t compete as well as we would have liked, there was strong leadership from Sam and Chad vocally as well as Adam and Ethan physically. We will continue to harness that energy and play the right way.
U12 BOYS (TIM HART)
Loss against Mandurah Magic (31 – 53)
COACHES NOTES
The team walled up better to challenge close shots in the key way. We made good shot selections and plenty of rebounds, but the shots were not dropping for us. We were down 12 at the half, and were able to pull that back to 7 going into Q4.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Callum top-scored this week (15 points), he rebounded effectively, and showed a desire to attack gaps in offensive transition. In defense Callum is improving his ability to contain the ball. and wall up in the key way.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Mandurah are well drilled, they apply pressure on-ball and scramble to cover the passing lanes. Angus showed resilience through the game despite the score gap between the teams. This was particularly noticed in Q3 where we were able to take back momentum and reduce the gap.
The Mandurah coach and team manager are friendly and welcoming. The Mandurah team are a pleasure to play, they conduct themselves well on the court and show good sportsmanship. This provides a great example for teams they play. Parents of the opposing team were encouraging players on both teams, with support shown from the scorebench and sideline. When our players were injured the opposition players, coaches, referees, and co-ordinators were quick to assist our players.
Mandurah have an interesting play they run on inbound at half time. Two players start in the back count and run hard up the floor, leaving us with a 5 on 3 disadvantage (when two guard closely in the back court). We didn’t fall for it this time (but we did the first time we played them).
U14 GIRLS (ANDREW HERBERT)
Won against Joondalup Wolves (49 – 46)
COACHES NOTES
This week we had a focus on defence. The whole squad showed improvement with their full court containment and help principles. Down 10 points at the half, 8 points at the end of the third, the girls played through adversity turning it up a gear in the final quarter and were able to continue turning defence into offence.
It was unfortunate to have limited rotations in the forth but momentum continued our way and was always on the increase. The girls always show great resilience and this game was no different. The girls were able to chip away at the lead and eventually get it back to even.
With 20 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Joondalup made a final push but with players getting to their spots, a deflection turned into a steal with 11 seconds remaining. We were able to skip the ball but a layup was cut off, the ball was kicked out to the wing and with her feet set Kaia drained a crucial 3 pointer.
It was great to see the U16 boys Suns boys up cheering for the girls ☀️ 💪🏻 All the girls were excited but were quickly told it was not over with 2 seconds left. The girls were able to shut down the final play allowing no shot, no fouls and no option of overtime. Congratulations to all girls on a great win!
PLAYER OF THE GAME
This week our POTR is Kaia Rukuata. Kaia pressured the ball in the half, got back well as goal tender, bumped players up on the ball, her quick hands were able to get steals or deflections to team mates and doubled on players at critical times. Kaia had a solid effort this week on both ends of the floor showing her dominance by going to work in the post and moving the ball well out of the post.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
We almost got all players on the score board this week. Kaia led the way today with 19pts. Holly dropped 9pts and Isla contributed with 7pts plus a solid defensive effort. I would also like to thank Matt Harding for allowing the girls to join his 16’s to get up and down the court together. It was so beneficial to get on a full court to assist in their conditioning. Thanks again!
U14 GIRLS (JEMMA & JAYMEE)
Loss against Hills Raiders (27 – 62)
U14 BOYS (ROB REES)
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (62 – 69)
COACHES NOTES
A tough game for all of us and we hopefully learnt a lot about ourselves
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Ethan Allan Scored 15 and didnt give up all game
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Kobe Seubert also had an outstanding game, we managed to get court time in for most palyers
U14 BOYS (THOR AMUNDSEN)
Won against Joondalup Wolves (55 – 30)
COACHES NOTES
After a slow start, our defensive pressure built and started our momentum. Some good ball use and teamwork provided some highlights for a much-needed win heading into the break. Again, some forced changes to our combinations, supported by Shane from the U12s who supported our rotation.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Anthony Godinho-McLeod worked nicely through the guard roles and provided a nice offensive spark. He met the challenge set during the week nicely and finished with 11 points.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Our forwards Jax and Odin again proving to be a nice combination, finding each other and working both the post and drives nicely for 20 and 16 points respectively whilst adding great defensive pressure.
U14 BOYS (LUKE POYNER)
Won against Rockingham Flames (61 – 48)
COACHES NOTES
Today’s game was a testament to what we have been telling the boys this past month. When everyone is giving their absolute ALL to the game, we are capable of beating any opponent in our division. We came out strong and took a small lead early. During the second quarter, our hustle and strong defensive pressure continued and we were able to take control of the game. Our shooting accuracy improved greatly and we even had a run of 3 pointers by 6 different players! This resulted in us taking a 25-point lead going into the fourth. We maintained the lead, but our defense waned a little late in the game and the opposition were able to claw back to within 13 points. Going forward, we will focus on ensuring our intensity stays strong for the full four quarters.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Ryan Eva. Ryan demonstrated excellent leadership, encouraging and guiding his teammates on the court and during the breaks, as well as putting on a great show himself. He is always very dangerous in offense and today he also maintained defensive pressure, utilising his speed and keeping the fouls to a minimum.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
A whole team effort really contributed to our win today. Will McDonnell and Chayse Roberts stepped up their defense with pleasing results at both ends of the court. Their hunger for the ball ensured they were able to make a big impact on the game. Overall, I was immensely proud of each and every one of the boys today. They have all earnt the week off!
U14 BOYS (SHANNON TREW)
Loss against Hills Raiders (46 – 49)
COACHES NOTES
Another hard fought out game where either team could have won. Boys worked hard all game with 4 of them coming off a week of sickness with the cold. We tried to play our game but a lack of energy made things hard. Waves of highs and lows during the game but everyone had a high spirit.
We had a chance to level the score with 5 secs left but the ball rimmed out from a great shot.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Oliver James- another huge effort from Ollie who was sick during the week but ran base to base the whole game. 24 pts, 11 rebounds and may 2nd and 3rd opportunity for the team through Ollie’s hard work.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Jack and Jack combined for 16 points between them and looked dangerous at times and was unlucky not to get more. Tanzeke threw his little frame across the court on every play and put the team first at every opportunity- Small body with a big heart!!
U16 GIRLS (MATT HARDING)
Won against Joondalup Wolves (57 – 49)
COACHES NOTES
Our Suns Girls played with great respect to the game we love, We only had 7 available players for this game and had to stick together, and as good teams do our girls stuck together.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Susan Rammal
U16 GIRLS (CHARLIE SMART)
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (67 – 69)
U16 BOYS (BAILEY FERGUSON)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (51 – 82)
U16 BOYS (LACHIE RILEY)
Won against Willeton Tigers (65 – 60)
COACHES NOTES
After a great team effort, the boys have achieved their first win of the season. This week, defensive communication and player accountability was the focus. Everyone scored. Onwards and upwards. C’mon suns!!
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Reimana Edwards, after a good effort in training Ray hit the court as a starter this game. His rebounding and good effect in defence helped the team greatly, with a good sum of points to end the game. Great job Ray (11 points)
U16 BOYS (RAE D’SYLVA)
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (68 – 72)
U16 BOYS (TYRON NEILL)
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (83 – 58)
COACHES NOTES
Played well defensively to keep the top team to their lowest score for the second time this season. Managed to find some avenues into a 2-3 zone defense to get a few points on the board.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Noah Cross played hard around pulling down some big rebounds whilst scoring 17 points along the way.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Tyler Egan played well again scoring 16 points with a hot hand in the first quarter.
U18 GIRLS (DYSON LOWE)
Won against Joondalup Wolves (58 – 57)
U18 BOYS (COOPER LOWE)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (75 – 126)
U18 BOYS (ANGUS HYWOOD)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (65 – 114)
COACHES NOTES
This week we come up against a tough Joondalup Wolves, a tough away game against a top spot competitor in this division. Our first quarter started off with the wolves getting a jump on us going 11-2 to open things up, after a quick reassurance they were capable of taking this one our suns boys stepped up bringing the margin to 4 at the quarter break. Second quarter again we matched The wolves offensively getting to the rim, putting our game in motion, however again our defence was not as intense as the opposition. Half time we were within striking distance & our game was ready to be taken to another level…… That did not happen.
My biggest takeaway this week for the growth of this playing group or any team for that matter is that accountability and desire for Excellence is THE key to a basketball team/player to be successful. To execute in game with a high standard & focus in your role, your play, your layups, your passes, your footwork- EVERYTHING should be done with absolute focus & determination to be Excellent at what it is your doing! This group still has the highest potential of any in our division with finals a very real possibility still, now it is about whether or not the work will be put in to achieve that standard of EXCELLENCE!
Heads up suns we will be better for this one.
FIRE UP!
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Lachlan Watson- Lachie gave his all on every possession that he was on the court. A willingness to defend on ball, the speed & fire to attack the basket with conviction & never once dropped his head. Onya Lachie!
U18 BOYS (HAYDEN BIRD)
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (50 – 106)
COACHES NOTES
This game the boys didn’t have a big loss compared to the previous game versing the Perry Lakes Hawks. We were able to pass the ball around very well and taking away the amount of turnovers we usually have.
We utilized our press break very well and could consistently grab rebounds while competing with the other teams bigs.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Tyson Gerragthy. He put up 18pts for us and was able to be strong under the basket and grabbing rebounds. Without having another big on out group Tyson stopped up and put up a great fight for himself and the boys.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Dominic Puno, 10 pts he didn’t shy away form the paint and every time he got the ball he put it on the floor and pushed it.
U18 BOYS (RICK BATISTA)
Won against Rockingham Flames (110 – 84)
COACHES NOTES
The boy’s remained composed in a tough game on the road, we had the time changed on us and it felt a little flat throughout the game. The boys worked really well as a unit however and our press was instrumental. At times Rockingham fought back to make it a 10 point game but our boys were able to keep the pressure on and stretch the lead out.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Michael Luce scored 35 points and couldn’t miss, we’d been chatting and I knew a full 4qtr game would lead to this sort of outburst, Michael is a very gifted player who works hard on his craft this was just desserts. Congratulation’s Mikey
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
Saxon worked hard again all day with ball carrying duties as well as being smashed from pillar to post. Hamish was one of our best working hard on the boards and scoring important timely buckets. Lemekani and Jet keep providing us with great guard minutes when they come on.
U20 BOYS (DAN VLAHOV)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (76 – 87)
COACHES NOTES
This was a must win game against a team that was sitting on the same points and an almost identical track record for the season.
The game started well with Kiarn Linaker throwing down a massive dunk, followed by a solid low post mid range to get us off to a solid start but the lack of discipline in defence, and general handling errors, meant that even the 26 points contributed by Jason Moore wasn’t enough to get us over the line.
Whilst we did take the lead on several occasions we regularly gave up fast break layups on “D” and this, combined with some poor shot selection and lack of patience in offence, just didn’t allow us to stake full claim to the game resulting in a disappointing 11 point loss.
On a positive note, Mathew Canny showed that he has been taking note of what the coaches have been talking to him about and Ethan Nash, along with Jack Burrowes, again played their roles well. Austin Cole, Aaron Weldelassie, Noah Jacques & Rory McCarthy all should be commended on working to provide positive contribution when on court however we truly are going to need to put all of this together for 4 quarters for the remainder of the season to be a genuine league champions contender.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Alex Jenkins for the positive on court contribution and his tireless effort to lift the teams defensive work rate all whilst chipping in a very handy 10 points.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
This team is the real deal and we are all looking forward to seeing them believe this and bring that to every game from here on in.
It’s time to Fire Up and Walk the Talk — LETS GO SUNS!!!!