WABL Wrap Week 13 – 28/07/24
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:
Mariska Breadsell (U12 Girls) – “Big time players make big-time plays.” It takes a brave player to take the last-second shot to tie the game, and Misky didn’t flinch. Though the shot didn’t land, I was incredibly proud of her resolve when her team needed her. I’m sure the next one will hit. Well done, mate!
Mathew Berkhout (U14 Boys) – This week the Player of the Round is awarded to one of the boys who helped the team with his positivity, his attitude and his willingness to put the Team first. Individually, Mathew had a solid game. However, when James and I were trying to change a few defensive shapes, Mathew was put into the game and quickly subbed out. I took a moment to explain the sub to him, and remind him that he hadn’t done anything wrong, but without hesitation Mathew said ‘No worries Coach, it’s about the Team.’ What an incredible insight for a young player. Of course, Mathew wanted to be on the court but he didn’t complain, he responded in a way that many adult athletes could learn from. That selfless attitude is what coaches look for. I would therefore like to publicly acknowledge Mathew for his Team-first attitude. Well done Mathew, a deserving winner.
U12 Girls Black – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: KTrans)
Loss against Willetton Tigers (49 – 52)
Coaches notes
Last time we played Willetton, it was neck and neck the entire game, and we claimed a 1-point victory as the Tigers missed their last-second shot. This week, we started a bit slow and found ourselves trailing by 8 at halftime.
We came out firing in the second half, winning both quarters and bringing the score to within 3 points with just a few seconds remaining.
We called a timeout for one final attempt to send the game into overtime. The girls held their nerve and executed the play perfectly, but unfortunately, it wasn’t to be this time.
Player of the game
Mariska Breadsell – “Big time players make big-time plays.” It takes a brave player to take the last-second shot to tie the game, and Misky didn’t flinch. Though the shot didn’t land, I was incredibly proud of her resolve when her team needed her. I’m sure the next one will hit. Well done, mate!
U12 Girls Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge
(Sponsored by: Clever Fox Marketing)
Won against Warwick Senators (28 – 23)
U12 Girls White – Jemma Gartrell
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (12 – 62)
U12 Boys Black – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: Fern Landscapes)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (58 – 54)
Coaches notes
This was going to be a tough game, being 1st vs 2nd and it was exactly that. We were down 2 players for this game, so everyone had to dig deep and play more minutes. The boys really stepped up and played well to get the hard fought win.
Nathaniel continued his form, pulling down rebounds and getting put backs. Henry shot well leading the scoring, with Frank and Alex attacking the ring aggressively as well.
Everyone on the team really did contributed in their own way and was great to see the result. Once we have fine tuned finding a scoring option off our offence, instead of just driving into traffic, the team will be even better.
Player of the game
Cohen wins player of the round, as his performance was consistent throughout the entire game. He played the whole 1st quarter without a break and his effort down both ends was noticed.
U12 Boys Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge (Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd)
Won against Mandurah Magic (79 – 40)
Coaches notes
After an even start to the game, our defense forced Mandurah players into several turnovers and missed shots. A 16-2 run created a handy buffer for us in the second quarter. We had a slight advantage in the third quarter but couldn’t pull away until a 27-6 last quarter which was fueled but a very impressive team defensive effort. All nine available players got meaningful minutes and everybody contributed which was great to see. Now we need to find a way to carry that last quarter momentum into the next game.
Player of the game
After an even start to the game, our defense forced Mandurah players into several turnovers and missed shots. A 16-2 run created a handy buffer for us in the second quarter. We had a slight advantage in the third quarter but couldn’t pull away until a 27-6 last quarter which was fueled but a very impressive team defensive effort. All nine available players got meaningful minutes and everybody contributed which was great to see. Now we need to find a way to carry that last quarter momentum into the next game.
U12 Boys White – Ben Marks (Sponsored by: Joel Dixon)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (46 – 58)
Coaches notes
This week’s game was bigger than basketball, with the team wearing black armbands as a sign of respect for Josiah losing his grandad, “David” during the week. David was a great supporter of the team, attending every training session and game this season and was a positive supporter of the team, even coming down to cheer when Josiah broke his finger and wasn’t playing!
Playing up at HBF arena, the first quarter was an even tussle, with both teams not being able to take control as scores were hard to come by. Joondalup then broke away to gain a double-digit lead in the second, as the boy’s ability to finish consistently was an issue. The 3rd saw us bring the lead back to 5 before a scoring barrage from arguably the league’s most potent scoring threat, saw them take the lead out to double digits again. A big buzzer beating three point shot at three quarter time from Declan reduced it to single digits coming into the fourth quarter. The boys gave their all on both ends of the court, winning the quarter on the scoreboard, but it wasn’t enough to get over the line.
Once again, our defensive pressure in the backcourt is what kept us in the game, consistently forcing errors from the opposition and giving us many opportunities to score. Unfortunately, not enough were converted to get the win. The coaches can never fault this team’s effort, consistently putting their body on the line for the team’s good. Zane was cooking on offense again this week, dropping close to 50% of our score off some unselfish passing. The bigs battled well on the glass and did a good job keeping the opposition scoring threats away from easy buckets. Here’s hoping we can sneak a couple of wins in our last three games.
Player of the game
Whilst Zane’s scoring haul was hard to ignore, it was the inspired play of Josiah that has him taking home this week’s player of the round. Whilst he dropped some big shots from strong drives to the basket, it was his defensive effort which stood out. Taking on the responsibility of stopping Joondalup’s biggest scoring threat, being an absolute pest, and anticipating the play well to get numerous steals is the main reason he was so valuable to the team.
U12 Boys Blue – Declan Kinsella
Loss against Mandurah Magic (32 – 60)
U14 Girls Black – Bruno Kongawoin
(Sponsored by: SupaFit Seat Covers Pty Ltd)
Won against Rockingham Flames (73 – 51)
Coaches notes
Playing away from home and securing a win is always a confidence booster. After our defeat at the hands of the Willetton Tigers last week and with a depleted team preparing for the Flames, my concerns about our style of play and game plan were evident in the first quarter.
We started the first quarter flat and unresponsive to the Flames’ full-court pressure. We were flat-footed, allowing the Flames to penetrate the keyway at will. Despite creating many scoring opportunities of our own, we failed to capitalise on them.
In the second quarter, we found ourselves trailing by 12 points. However, it was as if a switch was flipped, and we clawed our way back into the game, going into halftime only 3 points down.
This momentum carried us through the third and fourth quarters, where we ultimately put the game away for good.
Chelsea Parker, who earned a starting position today, put in a great effort at both ends of the court and demonstrated her ability to comfortably take and make shots from outside the key. Unfortunately, she suffered a collision with another player, resulting in a trip to Rockingham Emergency Department. Thankfully, she was cleared of any serious injuries.
Amber Brickwood once again made a significant impact with her defense and ball-handling, while Poppy Hickson had another massive rebounding game with 16 rebounds (10 defensive and 6 offensive) and added 6 points to complement her aggressive defensive plays.
Finlay Edwards came out strong, creating many turnovers, mustering a few steals, and scoring 11 points in the process. Neve Spry and Leah Darroch backed her up with great defensive efforts and also added points to the board.
Benwech Kuach continued to inspire her teammates with her exemplary on-court effort and being the game top scorer with 24 points. This week, Abigail Allan was her accomplice, contributing with her first 20-point game of the season and 8 rebounds.
The biggest takeaways from this game are the importance of execution, playing with intensity and energy, and the value of teamwork, as all players contributed points on the scoreboard and had positive impacts on the game.
Next week, we take on the Redbacks, currently second on the ladder behind us. Our first encounter saw us play the last quarter with only four players and lose by 8 points. This time, we hope to have everyone available, healthy and ready to train, aiming to secure a win and maintain our top position.
Player of the game
This week’s player of the game voting resulted in a tie between Abigail Allan and Benwech Kuach. A coin toss favoured Benny. Benny as usual led by example, playing hard at both ends, hustling for rebounds, and making key steals and interceptions to create her own scoring opportunities. Benny is simply a Ferrari on the basketball court. Well done, Benny…
U14 Girls Orange – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: Genesis Craft)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (57 – 40)
Coaches notes
Last week, we struggled to maintain our composure in a game we should have controlled. So, it was pleasing to see us come out strong this time, build a lead, and extend it at every break. Consistent performance across all quarters allowed us to comfortably weather a late-game push from Lakeside.
In the past, we’ve been sidetracked by external distractions, but today we demonstrated growth and took care of business.
Next week we road-trip to Bunbury for a top of the table clash. Its hard to win on the road, but we are prepared and ready for the challenge.
Player of the game
Tough week to pick just one player with so many solid performances!
A couple of honourable mentions:
Emily anchored us on the defensive end causing no end of trouble for Lakeside in the paint. She top scored with 13 points and chipped in 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and 10 blocks!
Bel continues to lead from the front every week, doing whatever her team needs her to do. This week she scored 12 points, along with 5 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steals and multiple hustle plays on defense!
Player of the game this week goes to Yasmin Rammal:
Yas is frequently a target of the opposing team, but she can hurt you in so many ways. If you give her space she will shoot, send one defender she will score and if you send help she will find the open player. Today her passing was on full display and along with 6 points she managed 9 rebounds, 16 assists, 5 steals & 2 blocks! Yas is patient, controlled & calm under pressure – well done superstar!
U14 Girls White (Rick Anderson)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (21 – 41)
U14 Girls Blue – Adam Chambers
(Sponsored by: Newtrend IT Specialists Pty Ltd)
Won against Rockingham Flames (51 – 19)
Coaches notes
Another great team effort, another great team win. Its always a great feeling when everyone gets points and all points were shared evenly.
The game started with both teams going basket for basket and it was a tight contest. By half way through the 1st quarter though the girls woke up and shot away from Rockingham with a 12-0 run which continued into the 2nd quarter and we finished the half up 22 – 7.
The 2nd half was much of the same, scoring 29 – 12 through hard running, early passes and lots of rebounds. The score could have been a lot better if we had taken our chances more.
All of the girls defensive pressure was amazing and they played smart defense and kept their hands out and used their feet to get in front. The girls moved the ball well and they were always looking for space to drive or cut into. Rockingham put up many walls and the girls drove or passed around them and not through them.
Player of the game
Eliza “Bob” Eaton played her best game of the season and everything seemed to click for her. She was reading the rebounds, looking for quick easy outlet passes, looked to drive or shoot at every opportunity and played awesome strong defense. Bob got to the ball really quickly and put lots of pressure on the Rockingham players and stopped anyone coming into her paint. Bob finished with 6 points, 8 rebounds and setup 10 points through quick strong outlet passes to her running team mates.
U14 Boys Black – Adrian Mok (Sponsored by: SWISH Plan Management)
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (41 – 79)
U14 Boys Orange – Patrick Massam (Sponsored by: Pacific Automation Pty Ltd)
Loss against Eastern Suns (64 – 73)
Coaches notes
This rematch/derby 2.0 was going to be the best indicator of growth and progress, coming off a 40 point loss last time the boys faced team White, they managed to reduce that to a 9 point defeat.
The boys applied their standard pressure on the ball with shell in back court, which has worked effectively against other stronger teams in our division, but team White handled this causing us to change up to man on man. It was great to see the boys adapt to this mid game on the run.
Our ball movement in offence is still letting us down with training focusing on cut/replace pin downs etc and seeing an over dribble used in the game to find the shot. Unfortunately team white didn’t have this problem with their ball movement effectively opening up our defence.
The last quarter was hard fought with our key rotation not able to break the 10 point gap, with this we rotated the bench at the time through and saw two consecutive 3 point shots dropped by Brodie to really add excitement for the last 3 min. Seeing a great scramble to round out the game!
Player of the game
Sam Agok – He really brought his athleticism this week, hustling hard and providing great help in defense. Great work Sam!
U14 Boys White – Joel Warner
Won against Eastern Suns (73 – 64)
Coaches notes
A well fought out win against a great Suns Orange Team. It’s terrific to see the improvement in the Suns Orange side, who kept fighting all game. Sunday was an unusual game for us, and we didn’t perform as well as we would have liked, in part due to deviating from the game-plan too much and partly due to form and confidence. Despite that, we still managed to secure the win. A couple of players are struggling with form and ill health, which certainly effects confidence. Confidence always translates onto the court and with young players (like our Team), confidence is as important as any fundamental skill. For a couple of our Team members, the hard work is being displayed on the court (which we celebrate), and for others, despite putting in the work, it’s not always showing on game day. Which… is perfectly ok. James, Linda and I are responsible for junior athletes, and they are welcome to make errors, learn, feel great and even feel terrible. We are a Team. As long as we stick together, things will be fine. We are just managing the momentum of a long season, and that’s part of the sport. We’ve trained well for the last two weeks, and our attitude as a group is maturing. Suns Orange pushed us in all areas and despite the scoreboard, were in some elements, a better Team. That should be acknowledged. What should also be acknowledged is that when we were challenged, we again responded. We have some big personalities and some big feelings, we also have reliable contributors, a selfless game-style, and some great talent. Although this week wasn’t our best performance, I am as proud of this Team as I ever have been. Right now, we are a hunted Team, so we can expect a little more pressure. We’ll manage the Team bumps and the momentum of the season and see where we land. Well done Suns White.
Player of the game
This week a few of the players had great halves, and in some cases, a good scoring output. As a group we defended well when it counted, but overall we were a little flat on both sides of the court. I can’t in good conscience allocate the award based on any defensive or offensive effort. But I can pick something that’s more meaningful at this stage of the season. So this week, the player of the round is awarded to one of the boys who helped the Team with his positivity, his attitude and his willingness to put the Team first. Individually, Mathew had a solid game. However, when James and I were trying to change a few defensive shapes, Mathew was put into the game and quickly subbed out. I took a moment to explain the sub to him, and remind him that he hadn’t done anything wrong, but without hesitation Mathew said ‘No worries Coach, it’s about the Team.’ What an incredible insight for a young player. Of course, Mathew wanted to be on the court but he didn’t complain, he responded in a way that many adult athletes could learn from. That selfless attitude is what coaches look for. I would therefore like to publicly acknowledge Mathew for his Team-first attitude. Well done Mathew, a deserving winner.
U14 Boys Blue – Yi Gan (Sponsored by: Excess Power Equipment)
Won against Rockingham Flames (65 – 45)
Coaches notes
Player of the game
U16 Girls Black – Stewart Winsor & Elijah Gray
Loss against Warwick Senators (53 – 62)
Coaches notes
We had an early start up at Warwick and the game started at 8am but unfortunately the girls didn’t wake up until quarter time. A 20 – 3 first quarter to Warwick setup the win for them.
But despite the slow start and early frustrations the girls never gave up and won the next 3 quarters. Credit to Warwick they hit all their shots and took advantage of our turnovers to score off them.
Our half court defense was very good when it was setup but Warwick did most of their scoring when it wasn’t. Early on in offence we were either standing still or running into walls, but as the game went on we moved the ball a lot faster and more direct.
Unfortunately we were short a couple players and we had 2 sick girls playing and they worked harder than most, but kept running out of energy.
We can’t dwell on this loss, we must keep looking forward and keep learning. Hopefully next week our energy and effort will be back to 100% and we can continue with what we were doing before our 2 losses.
Player of the game
Players of the game went to Isla and Charlie for their gut busting running and maximum effort on and off the ball. They gave 100% the whole game and only stopped running when they were rested for their hard work. Unfortunately for them, they didn’t get much of a break and were put back on too many times before they could fully recharge.
They’re a deadly combo who probably need to be a little more selfish, but they’re too much a team player and always put the team first.
U16 Girls Orange – Andrew Herbert
Loss against Southwest Slammers (59 – 66)
Coaches notes
We had an unfortunate loss on Sunday. After a solid 18-2 start by the ladies we were unable to finish the game & get the job done. Foul trouble and injury lost our rhythm against a Slammers solid 4th quarter.
I look forward to the ladies bouncing back next Sunday.
Player of the game
This week’s POTR goes to a lady who executes the role she is given in the team perfectly, she plays with a positive attitude which not only makes her stand out, but makes us be successful as a team.
Congratulations Holly Marsh!
U16 Girls White – Daniel Heyman
Loss against Perth Redbacks (47 – 74)
Coaches notes
We came up against a hot Redbacks team who rebounded well and shot efficiently. We fought hard until the end, making improvements with our talk on defense and by not turning the ball over at a high rate. Our persistence in attacking the hoop and getting to the line helped us on the scoreboard. We showed an aggressive mindset and a desire to put pressure on the ball to force turnovers, generating better scoring opportunities.
Moving forward, we look to up our defensive intensity and work more as a unit on the offensive end. We are eager to get out there and take it to a perky Mandurah team this Sunday, hopefully upsetting them on their home turf.
Player of the game
Vattalanie D’Sylva: Vattsy was outstanding on defense. She was tasked with lifting her game at that end, pressuring the ball and disrupting their flow. She did just that! Vattsy was relentless. Her energy on the boards was amazing. She pulled in 10 rebounds by half time and ended with a team high 12 boards. Outstanding effort, Vattalanie!
U16 Boys Black – Declan Kinsella
(Sponsored by: Angus Flexible Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (69 – 80)
U16 Boys Orange – Hayden Bird
Won against Perth Redbacks (82 – 78)
Coaches notes
Player of the game
Seth Londsdale – Seth puts his heart and soul into every game and this weekend was no different. With great rebounding and spacing of the floor on fast breaks, Seth truly displayed his talent on the court. Great job Seth.
U16 Boys White – Thor Amundsen
Loss against Warwick Senators (53 – 72)
U16 Boys Blue – Derek Quayle
Loss against Mandurah Magic (70 – 103)
Coaches notes
Considering that this team beat us by 60 points last time, to only lose by 30, was a big improvement. The 1st and 4th quarter we matched it with them, and at times we were on top… including a 7 point lead half way through the 1st quarter.
The 2nd and 3rd quarters were really disappointing and was not played using our team basketball structure. When we play team basketball we can match it with any team, but the moment we go away from that we see quarters like this (24-9 & 31-16)
Lucas led the way with 16 points while Jacob and Ronron scored 13 each.
Player of the game
Tom Wakeman gets the player of the game this week for his efforts on both sides of the ball. His on-ball and switch defense was excellent and he chipped in with 8 points as well.
U18 Girls Black – Rick Batista
Won against Lakeside Lightning (78 – 52)
Coaches notes
We were challenged early again with some early misses on the fast break, and we let Lakeside stay with us. But eventually we found some good defensive pressure and were able to sway some extra possessions our way and importantly finish them off. The starting 5 professional as always toiled away hard this week, but it was our bench that gave us great impact, working hard and keeping their foot on the pedal when replacing the starters.
Player of the game
Casey Meyer was unstoppable this week, excelling in every aspect of the game. She dominated the boards, played stellar defense, and attacked the rim whenever she saw an opening. Casey is just beginning to tap into her immense potential, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for her. She scored 24 points, and once her three-point shot starts falling, her confidence will soar even higher. Great job, Case!
U18 Girls Orange – Charlie Smart (Sponsored by: Parker Crofts & Co)
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (42 – 61)
Coaches notes
Tough game against top of the ladder Perry Lakes.
Still riddled with injury and missing players, the team battled hard throughout and saw some great moments of team basketball.
Player of the game
Mia and Chelsea.
Mia was everywhere! It was so good to see Mia back to her confident self, driving, scoring and rebounding both ends of the court.
Chelsea had her best game this season. You couldn’t tell Chelsea was still nursing an ankle injury as she stepped up and ran rim to rim. She played focused, controlled and even confidently took on point guard duties a few times.
U18 Boys Black – Cooper Lowe (Sponsored by: Silverstone)
Won against Cockburn Cougars (77 – 71)
U18 Boys Orange – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: GJ Demo Pty Ltd)
Won against Willetton Tigers (75 – 57)
Coaches notes
As expected, this was going to be tough with 1st vs 2nd, but our team arrived ready and boy did they deliver. The 1st quarter was close, going into the break with a small 3 point lead. We changed our defense going into what was probably the best quarter of basketball I have ever seen from this team. We managed to keep Tigers to only 4 points in this quarter, whilst running a fast paced offence and scoring another 24 points ourselves. Willetton returned the favor in the 3rd and we struggled a bit in offence, but our defense intensity continued and the damage was done in the 2nd, we just needed to hold on.
Isaiah returned from injury with a great performance and Tom H worked hard as usual securing the ball and protecting the rim. Last time we played Tigers we shot poorly, but this time we shot well with Deacon and Isaiah shooting a ridiculous 63% and 62% and Tom H an impressive 57%.
Player of the game
Jack wins player of the round with easily his best performance for the season, finishing with 14 points, along with a couple of rebounds, assists and steals. Jacks defense intensity was one of the reasons we had such a great 2nd quarter.
U18 Boys White – Rae D’Sylva
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (70 – 88)
U18 Boys Blue – Bailey Ferguson (Sponsored by: Amy Jacobson Pty Ltd)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (77 -71)
U20 Boys Black – Lochy Brown
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (73 – 82)
Coaches notes
Never fun to walk away with a loss. However the team played tough hard-nosed basketball to be in it all the way till the end.
Slightly changing the offence in preparation for Lakesides pressure defense, the team bought in and played together. Some costly turnovers in the fourth quarter hurt our chances at the end of the game. Really happy with the effort the players put in, now we need to execute throughout the entire game.
Player of the game
Dylan Jorre De St Jorre – In fairness Dylan could get player of the game every week. This week Dylan kept us in the game. Whether it was a big three to stay within range to win the game or a timely steal to interrupt Lakesides offence. Dylan dominated both sides of the floor.
U21 Girls Black – Lizel Buckley
Won against East Perth Eagles (94 – 88)
Coaches notes
Our team is finally clicking and jelling together just in time for Finals.
This game we knew was going to be tough as we lost to Eagles by 45 in our First meeting so we knew it was going to take everything for us to get this win. It came down to the wire and in the end we got the Win.
Proud of the girls for sticking together and playing their hearts out.
Player of the game
2 Players of Round this week:
Tessa Marsh- Just doing everything we needed her to do this game. Scoring 39 and rebounding was great. She is the most unguardable player in this age group.
Roxy Dagostino- Worked hard both ends of the floor and she hit 2 big 3’s to put us in front.