WABL Wrap Week 14 – 4/08/24
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:
Chloe Sheridan (U12 Girls) – Chloe wins player of the round this week as her efforts on defense drove everyone else to run harder and she never stopped running.
Sven Neuhaus (U12 Boys) – Sven wins player of the round as this was a stand out game for him and we hope to see more of this going into finals.
U12 Girls Black – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: KTrans)
Won against Joondalup Wolves (44 – 34)
Coached by Ryan Breadsell
Coaches notes
After losing two games in a row this was a must win encounter. We hosted the Joondalup Wolves who have been improving all season and taking out some top teams. Our girls were up to the challenge and built a seven-point lead by half time. The Wolves challenged us in the third quarter, but we were able to hold off their attack and win the quarter by one point.
The girls were feeling the pressure at the final break and breathing hard, they had to dig deep and leave everything out on the court. They were all asked to step up their defense and dominate the boards on rebounds. Honourable mention to Sophie and Lily for helping out Eunice in the paint to get some crucial stops and rebounds.
Player of the game
Player of the game went to Zoe Keene. Zoe was a scoring machine this game, with the defense unable to contain her. She was also faced with some early foul trouble and was able to adjust to be a vital player for the whole game. Well done Zoe.
U12 Girls Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge
(Sponsored by: Clever Fox Marketing)
Won against South West Slammers (40 – 16)
U12 Girls White – Jemma Gartrell
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (27 – 38)
Coaches notes
We put in a lot of effort and ran hard for the majority of the game which has been our main goals for the last couple of weeks. The girls were also very aggressive and drove to the hoops.
Player of the game
Chloe as her efforts on defense drove everyone else to run harder and she never stopped running.
U12 Boys Black – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: Fern Landscapes)
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (63 – 40)
Coaches notes
We had our slowest start to a game this season, only managing 5 points in the first quarter and being down by 9. We refocused and went out with a new attitude in the 2nd to score 25 points and go into half time with the lead. We then returned the favour and kept Hawks to only 3 points in the 3rd quarter to go into the 4th with a nice lead.
Nathaniel continued his form playing well and Alex attacked the hoop strongly.
Player of the game
Sven wins player of the round, as this was a stand out game for him and we hope to see more of this going into finals.
U12 Boys Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge (Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (57 – 63)
Coaches notes
Our defense was not at it’s usual standard today. This game is a reminder for us that we still have some improving to do before finals start. We did have some good offensive passages today with some great passing and setting each other up, but unfortunately there are still too many times where we force a pass or shot when it is not there. Hopefully the boys will learn from this game and make the necessary adjustments going into the last two games and finals.
Player of the game
We had a few solid contributions today. Drew Bydder was a settling influence throughout the game, Spencer Massam fought hard, finishing strong in the open court and playing some outstanding backcourt defense, Ashton Smith had his 5th straight game with 19+ points and was strong under the basket and Levi Grey had some good patches on both ends of the floor.
U12 Boys White – Ben Marks (Sponsored by: Joel Dixon)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (51 – 97)
Coaches notes
The boys had been playing well of late and had a strong training session leading into the game. However, this was not our most polished performance. Our decision making was not what we are capable of and combined with battling three of the tallest players in the league, things did not all go to plan. The East Perth bigs contributed over 50 points to the team total from mostly offensive putbacks that we struggled to control, battling out of our height and weight division.
The focus of the game was based around ball movement and creating offensive advantages of decisive movement of the ball due to our quickness. There were times in the game where the boys carried out the message early in the game which kept us within striking distance at the first break. The second quarter saw our opposition take more control of the paint, pushing the lead out at the halftime break. We surged at them again from some inspired defense and ball movement to start the third quarter, playing well in transition and making good decisions in the half court. Unfortunately, we couldn’t sustain this attack, and East Perth took over for the remainder of the game. A highlight was that this was one of our highest scoring games for the season, with an even scoring spread across the team.
Declan and Lucas did an admirable job trying to secure every rebound and secure every loose ball they could, with Ollie and Will waking up to some court burn this morning! Josiah was all over the court on defense again and Zane produced another impressive offensive haul.
Player of the game
This week’s player of the round is awarded to a player who really stepped up this week. Will Butterworth played some standout defense all over the court guarding point guards through to centres and really putting his body on the line. He committed to the ball movement principles we had been stressing at training and was calm with the ball in his hands. He also created many opportunities for the team to score and should have had more buckets himself with his opportunities. Well done Will!
U12 Boys Blue – Declan Kinsella
Loss against East Perth Eagles (23 – 85)
Coaches notes
Every single week the boys continue to develop and get better working together as a team!
These boys are working together day in and day out and we couldn’t be prouder of them.
This game wasn’t one of our best this season so far, but the boys kept the same determination for the whole game and it is commendable of them!
The princes of the court this week is awarded to Lennox, Aj and Hugh for their hard work on court and positive attitudes during the game.
– Coach Charlize
Player of the game
The player of the round is nominated to Jonathon for giving the whole game his all and getting back up when he was pushed down. He did this despite being sore and getting over a cold.
Great work Jonathon!
U14 Girls Black – Bruno Kongawoin
(Sponsored by: SupaFit Seat Covers Pty Ltd)
Loss against Perth Redbacks (29 – 33)
Coaches notes
This week, the Perth Redbacks edged us out at home in a highly physical game, executing their game plan flawlessly.
We started strong, gaining a 7-point lead in the first four minutes. However, a successful 3-pointer from the Redbacks stymied our offense, and we finished the quarter trailing by 1 point.
The second quarter began with another Redbacks’ 3-pointer, and we managed only 2 points in the quarter, ending the half 5 points behind.
Although we won the third quarter, the second half as a whole saw intense, physical play from both teams. The Redbacks’ timely plays and our defensive lapses led to a 4-point defeat.
For the first time this season, none of our players scored in double figures. Despite a balanced scoring effort, we missed having a standout performer. Poppy Hickson’s relentless hustle prevented a larger defeat.
Our scoring duo, Benwech Kuach and Amber Brickwood, struggled to find their rhythm against the Redbacks this time. We expect them to bounce back strongly in our next games.
Once again, Neve Spry unfortunately suffered another injury during a promising performance against the Redbacks and was unable to finish the game.
Next week, we’ll face the Lakesides Lightning away, aiming to regain our early-season consistency.
Player of the game
Abigail Allan was voted Player of the Game, narrowly edging out Leah Darroch in the voting. Abigail’s aggressive play in the latter part of the game provided much-needed scoring. With two strong performances in a row, we look forward to more big games from her. Well done, Abi.
U14 Girls Orange – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: Genesis Craft)
Won against South West Slammers (60 – 50)
Coaches notes
This week we felt we were up against it, down two players and a long road trip ahead. We needed to manage our fouls to keep everyone in the game. While there was a nervous energy before the game, we came out strong and played one of the better games of our season.
By the half time break we had built a healthy 15-point lead. We knew Slammers were going to make a push however our sustained pressure on defense and fantastic ball movement allowed us to maintain our control on the game. The last 2 minutes saw them go on a 9-0 run with some excellent 3-point shooting to narrow the gap, however the work we had already done allowed us to ride it out.
Our spacing and ball movement were outstanding this week, reflected in our high shooting percentage. We’re finding consistency in our offense and getting regular contributions from the entire team. This game highlighted our progress this season, and it’s fantastic to see the girls’ hard work paying off on the court.
Special shout-out to our footy superstar, Steph, who is currently representing WA in the SSWA tournament in Geelong. Go get ’em, Steph!
Player of the game
Honourable mentions this week:
Emily Sunderland – Without her running mate this week Emily had to play smart, keep her foul count down while still being an effective defender. She was effective on both sides of the ball, top scoring with 16 points (4/6 from the line), 12 rebounds, 4 steals & 7 blocks – outstanding work!
Yasmin Rammal – Yas was at her efficient best this week scoring 12 points on 3/5 from inside the arc and 2/4 from deep. She grabbed 12 rebounds and served up 14 assists with some fantastic passing.
Double team for the award this week:
Indianna Billett – Indi found another gear this week when her team needed her. She was all hustle on defense, forcing multiple errors and turnovers. On the offensive side she was decisive with her movement off ball and aggressive to score when she saw an opportunity. Well done Indi – Keep up the great work.
Amelia Soka – Amelia was challenged to step up this week and play a different role. She was locked in from the moment she set foot on the court and stuck to the mission. Amelia’s effort and hustle on defense had a big impact on our game this week – well done mate!
U14 Girls White (Rick Anderson)
Won against Rockingham Flames (50 – 41)
U14 Girls Blue – Adam Chambers
(Sponsored by: Newtrend IT Specialists Pty Ltd)
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (48 – 53)
Coaches notes
The girls travelled to Lakeside to take on the top team in the league that have beaten everyone by 30-40 points every week.
Team Defense from the start was superb, they played defense with lots of energy and effort.
Offence started every time with great strong direct passes from rebounds or interceptions.
The 2nd quarter was the exact opposite to the first quarter, we didn’t have any rebounders, made lots of bad passes and Lakeside scored a lot of their points from our mistakes.
Too many players floating around in defense, not a lot of man on man defense. Lakeside outscored us 22 to 2.
After a very positive halftime talk the girls came out firing.
Passing and moving went back to being awesome and created lots of scoring opportunities.
Defense and rebounding was amazing again and we outscored lakeside 21 to 8.
The 4th quarter was a tussle and we got within 5 points at the end. We will be looking forward to meeting them in the finals where we will deliver 4 quarters of basketball.
Player of the game
Player of the match went to Abby for her hard work for all 4 quarters. She played with energy and effort and never stopped running and hussling. Abby was causing Lakeside a lot of trouble and deserved more points and more assists. Abby lifted her team mates when the game was tough and lead by example with her actions.
U14 Boys Black – Adrian Mok (Sponsored by: SWISH Plan Management)
Loss against Warwick Senators (47 – 83)
U14 Boys Orange – Patrick Massam (Sponsored by: Pacific Automation Pty Ltd)
Loss against Perth Redbacks (48 – 52)
U14 Boys White – Joel Warner
Won against Perth Redbacks (73 – 65)
Coaches notes
This week was the #1 and #2 Teams facing off, and it didn’t disappoint. These are two even Teams with solid match-ups across all positions. Coach James and I changed a few things from the last time we met, but this time we closed the game out better. The Redbacks had a great first half and we lacked some polish with the ball, causing us to have some transition turnovers. But winning and losing sometimes is quite simple, and importantly, we simply needed to find our energy. That was the difference. In the space of 50 seconds, we went from two points up to five points down as the second quarter ended. That was the catalyst for a firm half-time chat and a reset of expectations. The boys received some clear instructions during the break, as we reflected on some commitments we had made to each other as Team, way back at the start of the season (that was when we determined our Team values). For the boys to respond the way they did, largely with improved effort and energy, was impressive to watch. This is a fine group of boys and they have high expectations of each other and of the Coaches. So why not have that front of mind when we (James and I included) are challenged? I am continually impressed with how this Team sticks together. They really do support each other. So, its pleasing to report that again, we had a game with contributions from all players. We are practicing well and we continue to have a great scoring spread… and as a bonus, a couple of the boys played themselves into some form. Well done Suns White boys, you should all be very happy with the way you are playing as a Team. That’s another game where we drew on some resilience and found a way to battle through
Player of the game
Another difficult choice… Phoenix was a beast, Billy was creative and unselfish, Asten was incredible, showing his athleticism and fitness, Ethan stayed confident and positive, Callum and Sam were both exceptionally well organised defensively, at times playing out of position, Mathew provided speed and scoring, Chad made great decisions, Reuben stretched the court and shot the right shots and Will set effective screens and rebounded, in the same way Kade always does. We did miss Kade through injury, but it was great to see big Will out there. To inject Will into the game, and to have him make such a contribution is impressive. Will knows his role and pushes everyone at practice. The boys absolutely love big Will and the roar that went out when he hit the court affirms that. At the same time, Asten showed why he’s so important to our Team. Asten was a competitor in the third and fourth quarters and found another gear. He’s super fit, super athletic and engages in everything in a positive way. Asten put up 18 points but he also gave the Team second chances with his rebounding. On top of that he is very unselfish and plays within our Team systems. We always have a shared scoring spread because of players like Asten. So this week, we have two players of the round, with Asten making a massive impact on the game athletically and Will plugging a crucial hole and not missing a beat! Outstanding effort Will and Asten.
*Honourable mention to Billy, who James and I really couldn’t fault this week. Great game Billy.
U14 Boys Blue – Yi Gan (Sponsored by: Excess Power Equipment)
Won against Perth Redbacks (72 – 48)
Coaches notes
This week, our primary absence was Chandler, who was sidelined with the flu. However, we’re excited to welcome Noah back after he missed last week due to illness.
Post the mid-season break, we kicked off this game strong against the Redbacks at Leisurelife Rec Centre. The players received some pregame instructions and a few individual pointers, but I decided to give them the freedom to play on their own accord, with minor guidance. This approach allowed them to communicate, make defensive reads, and execute plays independently.
Player of the game
U16 Girls Black – Stewart Winsor & Elijah Gray
Won against Joondalup Wolves (74 – 56)
Coaches notes
After 2 tough losses in a row, the girls were ready to get back in the winners circle against Joondalup. Both teams started well and the 1st quarter was a tussle for control. Lack of defensive rebounds gave Joondalup some 2nd chances which they took with open arms.
The 2nd quarter was much the same as the first but unfortunately we couldn’t get our shots to go in and they were allowed to get some open shots from a lack of communication and desire to fight for the ball.
At half time the girls had a good chat between them and they decided to change up the defense to be more attacking and allow more counter attacks if they worked hard. And they worked very hard, moving as a team and running as a team. They outscored Joondalup 24-4 to setup the game and take the pressure off themselves.
4th quarter the girls slowed the game down and ran down the clock and looked for open space in the Joondalup’s defense. Joondalup lifted the aggression but the girls kept their cool and didn’t panic or rush themselves.
Player of the game
Player of the game went to Kaia for a solid, tough, don’t argue defense and filled any gaps in the keyway to stop Joondalup’s inside game. In offence she did the opposite, she created space in the paint and scored through her toughness and grit.
When Kaia was swarmed with opponents, she kicked the ball out for an open shot.
Kaia has been sick the last 2 weeks so it was good to have a fully fit Kaia where she could stay on the court and do what she loves best, Play basketball!
U16 Girls Orange – Andrew Herbert
Loss against Rockingham Flames (57 – 90)
Coaches notes
A tough road loss this week and another week of having some players out due to injury.
This game started okay but we were unable to keep our rhythm.
The ladies battled in the second quarter to keep it reachable at half time, but were unable to close the gap against a Flames team that shot the ball well.
Holly Marsh 18pts
Olivia Geary 16pts
Charlotte Herbert 14pts
Player of the game
This week’s POTR goes to lady who showed composure throughout the four quarters. She was able to apply pressure in defense and control the tempo in offence. She was able to score both inside and out and played with discipline in the 4th not to foul out. Congratulations Olivia Geary!
U16 Girls White – Daniel Heyman
Loss against Rockingham Flames (50 – 64)
Coaches notes
We played an awesome first half, with our team working in unison to protect the paint. The girls came together to find each other on the offensive end. Multiple actions and quick extra passes gave us repeated great shots.
In the second half, the Flames pulled away. The consistent application of our game plan and team principles remains an area of growth for our whole team.
Player of the game
Ashleigh Calvert: Ashleigh was outstanding at both ends of the floor. Her effort on defense and rebounding set the tone for the rest of the team. On offence, Ashleigh repeatedly passed to find players in great spots for high quality shots. She found opportunities to score by getting to her spots and through chasing offensive rebounds. Awesome game, Ashleigh!
U16 Boys Black – Declan Kinsella
(Sponsored by: Angus Flexible Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (44 – 60)
U16 Boys Orange – Hayden Bird
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (58 – 45)
U16 Boys White – Thor Amundsen
Won against Mandurah Magic (109 – 71)
Coaches notes
After a disappointing game last week, the boys regrouped and entered this matchup with a focused and determined mindset. We led at every break, notching a consistent four winning quarters (only one point separating each quarter) and registering our highest score of the season to date.
It was a solid team contribution, using our ‘ice-hockey’ bench rotation model, with multiple players scoring double figures in rebounds or points (or both) and each combination producing solid output.
A good reset game in preparation for our next matchup with the Senators.
Player of the game
Jake Potts was determined in this game and is building every week. Jake produced 16 rebounds and 6 blocks to go along with 14 points to earn this week’s player of the round.
U16 Boys Blue – Derek Quayle
Loss against South West Slammers (47 – 87)
Coaches notes
We travelled all the way to Bunbury this weekend and I think the travel affected our players as we were very lethargic in our actions, especially transition defense. We need to re-group and step up for our remaining 2 games.
Player of the game
Alex Scricca gets the player of the round this week. He came on during a game that we were not playing well and gave us maximum effort. Even though he didn’t score, he was very busy getting multiple deflections and steals while making the extra pass in offense that lead to scores.
U18 Girls Black – Rick Batista
Won against Perth Redbacks (91 – 54)
Coaches notes
Contributions again from 1-9 is really pleasing, especially with half the team under the weather. Louise, Ana and Kira’s defensive master classes are so pivotal to our teams success and I love watching their growth. The whole coaching and support staff have noticed the continual growth of this team and we’re really starting click with finals around the corner.
Player of the game
Amber Marsh gets the nod this week, not only does Amber do her job, she pitches in with scoring (17pts this week), leads the team in rebounding and helps with ball carrying duties. But maybe more impressively, Amber continues to do the dirty work for this team, diving, rebounding, covering gaps, you name it. This week I asked Amber to make sure she initiated the offence by setting early on ball and drag screens and she just takes it all in her stride and never disagrees with anything we’re trying to do. She’s a wonderful team player and just does what’s required. Well done Amber, proud to be your coach!!
U18 Girls Orange – Charlie Smart (Sponsored by: Parker Crofts & Co)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (55 – 70)
U18 Boys Black – Cooper Lowe (Sponsored by: Silverstone)
Won against Warwick Senators (99 – 87)
U18 Boys Orange – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: GJ Demo Pty Ltd)
Won against Eastern Suns (76 – 67)
Coaches notes
We played our style of game in the first half to go into the break with a comfortable lead. Suns Blue came out hard in the 3rd quarter and unsettled us and closed the gap. We got it together in the 4th to get the win.
Our 2 Tom’s worked hard to protect the rim and secure rebounds down both ends. Jarron shot a ridiculous 83% from the field and Vinz a crazy 67%, but was restricted due to early foul trouble.
Player of the game
Isaiah wins player of the round with his crafty style of basketball and quick hands in defense. Isaiah shot 56% from the field and 40% beyond the arc.
U18 Boys White – Rae D’Sylva
Loss against East Perth Eagles (66 – 92)
Coaches notes
This week’s game was a game where we were competitive for most of the game where a lot of boys stepped up on offence and had good performances doing the right things.
Player of the game
Taythan Donoghue. Taythan had a good game getting to the right spots and had a few blocks and rebounds on the defensive end.
U18 Boys Blue – Bailey Ferguson (Sponsored by: Amy Jacobson Pty Ltd)
Loss against Eastern Suns (67 -76)
Coaches notes
Despite a poor first half we managed to pull it together in the 2nd half and keep our heads held high. We played with much more energy and effort which is all we can ask.
Player of the game
Justin Morgan – very impressed with this young man he was cool and calm when the game got heated, his maturity throughout the season is impressive.
Well done Justin.
U20 Boys Black – Lochy Brown
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (71 – 102)
Coaches notes
Not much to say other than congratulations to Cockburn on a great game. They controlled the pace of the game on both sides and we out fell into bad habits that we’ve tried to address all season. We need to step up in a big way next week if we want to earn our spot in finals.
Player of the game
Riley Pabst – about the only positive in the game was one of the best and 1 dunks I’ve seen at any level. For your first in game dunk it was incredibly impressive.
U21 Girls Black – Lizel Buckley
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (51 – 93)
Coaches notes
This week was a tough one. We only had 7 players due to injury and coming up against a top level Wolves team.
We have to keep focused for the next two weeks as we come towards finals. Need to regroup at training this week and prepare for Senators.