WABL Wrap Week 16 – 18/08/24
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:
Abigail Allan (U14 Girls) – This week’s Player of the Game is Abigail Allan. Although not typically a ball carrier, Abi was tasked with bringing the ball up against the full-court press we’ve been facing recently. She handled this role like a seasoned pro and was also tenacious around the basket. Well done, Abi…
Hunter Dowd (U12 Boys) – Player of the Round goes to our youngest player, Hunter. Hunter had a blinder of a first half pulling down rebounds, setting screens and scoring 12 points (including 2 consecutive 3 pointers) before an ankle injury sidelined him.
U12 Girls Black – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: KTrans)
Loss against Perth Redbacks (51 – 64)
Coaches notes
Things didn’t go to plan this week, seeing Redbacks push out to a 14 point lead in the first quarter, and 19 points by half time.
The 2nd half we brought the energy and won both quarters however the damage was already done.
We need to look after the ball to limit our turnovers and stay disciplined on our defensive match-ups.
While not the ideal way to finish the regular season I feel our group can match it with the best in our division, so I am looking forward to a bounce back game for the first round of finals.
Player of the game
Harper Dostal – Harper is a hard worker on both sides of the ball and her output is incredible. This week she was responsible for nearly half of our teams steals and assists. Her decision making is fantastic and she makes her team mates better. Well done superstar!
U12 Girls Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge
(Sponsored by: Clever Fox Marketing)
Loss against Rockingham Flames (22 – 36)
Coaches notes
The girls left everything on the court against a bigger, stronger team this week. They showed incredible teamwork and fought hard from start to finish, but unfortunately, our shots just weren’t falling, and we couldn’t pull off the win this time.
Player of the game
This week’s Queen of the Court is Lexi Pang. She was consistently brilliant on defense, excellent on the court and played a key role in keeping us in the game.
U12 Girls White – Jemma Gartrell
Loss against Mandurah Magic (25 – 67)
Coaches notes
We played all the way through to the end of the game and the girls didn’t give up.
Player of the game
Olivia, Tahlia and Winter.
U12 Boys Black – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: Fern Landscapes)
Won against East Perth Eagles (75 – 55)
Coaches notes
What a great final regular season game for the boys. We got off to a great start and had a big lead, only to see foul trouble and an injury allow Eagles to close the gap, but the boys rose to the occasion for the convincing win.
The whole team contributed to the win, some players playing a lot of minutes due to foul trouble, an injury and a couple of players not being 100%. But they all worked hard and did what I asked of them and they got the result they deserved.
I saw a lot more screens set this game, which we have been working on all season. Sven played well, looking for options and Frank was unstoppable with 27 points.
Well done everyone for a fantastic regular season, finishing top of the ladder with only the 2 losses. Now to get to work in the finals.
Player of the game
Player of the Round goes to our youngest player, Hunter. Hunter had a blinder of a first half pulling down rebounds, setting screens and scoring 12 points (including 2 consecutive 3 pointers) before an ankle injury sidelined him.
U12 Boys Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge (Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (66 – 51)
Coaches notes
The winner of this game would finish on top of the ladder so it was a great opportunity to test ourselves against a very good team. It was an arm wrestle for the first three quarters and although we maintained a small advantage up to three quarter time, it felt like our mistakes were keeping Lakeside in the game. In the last quarter though, the boys played their hearts out. Solid defense led to strong rebounds which led to quick passing up the court and easy baskets. A 16-1 run over the end of the third and start of the fourth quarters put the game away. With a 16 point lead halfway through the last quarter, it was great to see the patience of the boys come into play – holding the ball up, moving the ball and making the defense react. Something we will have to utilize during these finals.
Player of the game
Preston Handgraaf came in off the bench and made a massive difference for us, disrupting the opposition ball handlers in the backcourt, getting several steals and hustling all over the court. Preston ran the court well too getting some big buckets for us. Stellan Edowai was also causing problems for Lakeside on the defensive end. Stellan’s ball handling and finishing at the basket has improved out of sight. He is becoming an all around threat.
U12 Boys White – Ben Marks (Sponsored by: Joel Dixon)
Loss against Hills Raiders (75 – 44)
Coaches notes
It has been a long season for us in the win’s column, and I must commend the boys on their attitude. Whilst it would have been easy to throw in the towel at this point of the season, the boys continue to give their all during games despite the opposition standing in front of them. The first three quarters of the game saw us somewhat in the hunt. Our ball movement was much improved from the previous week with the ball swinging side to side creating disadvantages and drives to the bucket. Unfortunately, our defense was unable to contain their scoring, especially in the fourth quarter as they ran up the score towards the end of the match. The score-line was not a true reflection of the closeness of the match. On our final regular season game, I would like to mention that it has been a pleasure to coach a great group of boys and supportive parents. We have all come together as a team through adversity, which I believe will make the boys stronger players moving forward into under 14’s in 2025.
Once again it was a team effort, and it was a struggle to single out one player. The balanced scoring attack was led by Zane with 14, Lucas M with 10, Lucas B with 9 and Declan with 6. Josiah had valuable moments on defense, and Will continued with his improvement as he has been inserted into the starting 5 regularly. Chase, Brock and Austin also gave energy and effort in their minutes and tried to make an impact on both ends.
Player of the game
Another difficult week deciding the player of the round. This week it was awarded to a player who played strong on both ends of the floor and was much more consistent in his effort, playing big minutes at crucial points of the game. Declan’s decision making was great this week, which is why he has been awarded our final player of the round. Well done, Declan!
U12 Boys Blue – Declan Kinsella
Loss against Hills Raiders (34 – 35)
Coaches notes
The boys played tremendously as a team from the second quarter of the game. The 4th quarter was a nail biting quarter with both teams scoring bucket for bucket.
The highlight of the game was the boys finally setting up our line play all by themselves and taking initiative to do it without me saying. From the line play they set up, they created beautiful scoring opportunities for their teammates to score.
Although we lost in the last moments of the game, we almost made it a draw with Lennox getting free throws when the final siren sounded. The boys played fantastically and if they play like this during next week’s finals game – I’m positive the game will be another nail biter!
– Coach Charlize 🙂
Player of the game
The player of the round is awarded to Hugh Bodycote!!
He receives this for being the most consistent and successful rebounder the entire game. Every single time he went on court on Sunday ( whether it be offensively or defensively) Hugh got the rebounds.
I’m very proud of how well he played on Sunday and how far his game has developed this season. Congratulations Hugh!
– Coach Charlize
U14 Girls Black – Bruno Kongawoin
(Sponsored by: SupaFit Seat Covers Pty Ltd)
Won against South West Slammers (49 – 36)
Coaches notes
Ending the regular season with a win is a huge morale boost after a challenging stretch, with two losses in our last five outings. Despite a sluggish start, we quickly found ourselves under pressure from the South West Slammers, trailing at the end of the first quarter. However, in the second quarter, our signature tight up-court defense kicked in, allowing us to create scoring opportunities and tie the game at halftime, albeit with a very low score.
The second half saw a significant improvement in our play. Benny’s ability to draw a foul and convert one of two free throws early in the third quarter gave us our first lead of the game, a lead we maintained all the way to the final buzzer.
The game was intensely physical, with both teams playing hard; a testament to the competitive nature of this point in the season, where every team has shown considerable improvement. Despite a short bench all season, the girls performed exceptionally well as a unit. This week, we brought in Sienna Raddock from our U14 Orange team, and she proved to be an excellent fit. Sienna contributed with solid on-ball pressure defense, vocal leadership, and even added a couple of points to our score.
Benwech Kuach continued to lead in all aspects of our game, supported by Abigail Allan. It was also encouraging to see Leah Darroch’s consistent performance since the break coming into her own after a relatively quiet season – just in time for the finals.
As we head into the elimination rounds, I’ll be exploring alternative preparation methods this week, particularly to get some full-court practice in. Our upcoming match is against Lakeside Lightning, who will undoubtedly be seeking revenge after their home loss to us last week. We’ll need to be sharper and fully prepared for this game.
Player of the game
This week’s Player of the Game is Abigail Allan. Although not typically a ball carrier, Abi was tasked with bringing the ball up against the full-court press we’ve been facing recently. She handled this role like a seasoned pro and was also tenacious around the basket. Well done, Abi…
U14 Girls Orange – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: Genesis Craft)
Won against Eastern Suns (43 – 42)
Coaches notes
This week, it felt like we just couldn’t buy a bucket. Whether it was the pressure of the last game of the season or the intensity of a Suns derby, we just didn’t seem to click. Full credit to the Suns White girls—they made us work hard for every point, answering every run, and never allowing us to stretch the lead beyond single digits.
With 1.7 seconds left, we were up by 1 when White called a timeout to advance the ball for a final shot. The inbound was perfect, and they were about to get a clean look when Dani made the play of the game, blocking the shot without fouling and helping us escape with the win.
We head into the finals as minor premiers, fully aware that anything can happen in this stage—every game is win or go home. Although we’ve secured many wins this season, none of them have come easy. We’ve grown stronger together, and I’m excited to see how deep we can go in the finals.
Player of the game
Honourable mentions this week:
Steph Evans – Steph has been over east the last couple of weeks playing footy (and bringing home a bronze medal!). It was nice to have her voice back this week and she went straight back to work with her pressure defense wreaking havoc, causing panic passes and forcing turnovers. She lead the team in assists and rebounded well above her size.
Taneika Lewis – T was all hustle this week on defense, not only maintaining pressure on the ball but pulling down 9 crucial rebounds. She set up her team mates with some great passes and her shot selection was excellent.
This week the award goes to:
Dani Simmons – Not only did she come up clutch with that last-second block to prevent a potential game-winning shot, but she also led the team with 6 steals and shot a team-high 50% from the field. Dani has made fantastic progress this season, and as her confidence continues to grow, I’m sure this is just the beginning. Well done, superstar!
U14 Girls White (Rick Anderson)
Loss against Eastern Suns (42 – 43)
U14 Girls Blue – Adam Chambers
(Sponsored by: Newtrend IT Specialists Pty Ltd)
Loss against Perth Redbacks (27 – 30)
Coaches notes
The final game of the regular season was crucial for securing our fourth position on the ladder, and it lived up to its intensity. Despite our consistent victories over the Redbacks in past matches, their physical play always presents a challenge. The girls started strong, with great movement and passing, leading 21-7 by halftime.
In the third quarter, the Redbacks’ tightened defense disrupted our transition offense and driving game. This shift allowed them to gain ground and take the lead in the final minutes. Despite a last-minute shot that was ruled not to have beaten the buzzer, we fell short with a final score of 27-30.
The team is eager for the rematch next week in the finals. With higher stakes and renewed determination, we’re ready to turn the result in our favour and reclaim our winning edge.
Special shoutout to Sofia, who set the tone by scoring 8 of our 11 points in the first quarter. Indi, a rebounding powerhouse, continues to impress with her exceptional defensive pressure and shooting. Jenni, back in top form after an injury, has been invaluable with her relentless defense and court facilitation.
Player of the game
Sara was our standout player of the game, dominating with fierce defense and an unstoppable physical presence. She not only grabbed crucial rebounds but also made pinpoint passes that set up open teammates. Her incredible effort was deserving of more points on the scoreboard.
U14 Boys Black – Adrian Mok (Sponsored by: SWISH Plan Management)
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (47 – 64)
U14 Boys Orange – Patrick Massam (Sponsored by: Pacific Automation Pty Ltd)
Loss against Rockingham Flames (59 – 86)
Coaches notes
The signs of a very long season showed themselves again this weekend as we failed to adjust to the oppositions inbound transition for what seemed like all game long. The bonus is we face the same team in our first finals game making what needs to be prepared for, fresh in our minds.
The team executed some good ball movement and nice team work in offence which was great to see.
With bad news coming in three’s and this weekend being our third loss in a row, I’m looking forward to watch the boys shake this game off and finish off these finals games strong!
Player of the game
Ram Gloria – He had to really work through a tough game. He pushed and finished to the rim through numerous uncalled contact, while dealing with foul trouble on what seemed soft at best.
U14 Boys White – Joel Warner
Won against Mandurah Magic (83 – 37)
Coaches notes
Sunday represented the last game in the home and away season, and we closed out with a good overall performance against Mandurah Black. From a coaching perspective we try to stick to a couple of simple in-game targets and this week we got quite close to those. We did start out slowly, but ended up closing the first quarter well, which was the platform for quarters’ two, three and four. Overall, the highlight this week was effective ball movement, something we’ve diligently worked on at practice; now regularly reflected in the scoring spread and the volume of assists that we record each game. Again, all players left having scored points, but contributions were made in many areas this week. All but two players took steals (with Asten having a game high six), every player took down a rebound (with Phoenix grabbing ten boards) and all but two players dished out an assist (with Ethan leaving with five). The take-away is unselfish, organised basketball and I am very happy with the progress we’ve have made this season as a Team. There has been great individual growth, but the biggest two reasons Suns White have experienced a good home and away record, are our commitment to Team basketball and our ability to participate in honest feedback loops (accountability). The players should be credited for ‘buying-in’ to a pretty formal accountability process, which has produced Team improvement in a number of measurable areas. Well done on a positive home and away season Suns White.
Player of the game
Another (close to) impossible selection this week. After reviewing the stats, we only had one player shooting below 50%, we had five players scoring double figures, some great assist returns, and some positive rebounding numbers. It was a strong Team performance. With that said, an important cog in the Suns White Team is one of the quiet achievers. This player is reliable, a hard worker, an honest competitor with a huge heart, someone who expects nothing and earns his opportunities. On every Team I coach, and it’s reaffirmed when James and I coach together – everything is earned. Reward for effort is preached at every single practice. The award this week goes to Reuben, who is a great Team-mate, someone who puts the Team first, and tries his best every week to stay in the systems and produce when he’s called upon. This week Reuben put together another well-rounded game with points, assists, rebounds, steals and minimal turnovers. Reuben held his defensive position(s) well on Sunday and he implemented improved off-ball movement during the game – something he’s been working on during practice. Well done Reuben, you’re a key part of the Suns White machine and you have your Team-mates and Coaches’ respect.
U14 Boys Blue – Yi Gan (Sponsored by: Excess Power Equipment)
Won against Cockburn Cougars (49 – 42)
Coaches notes
An early 8am tip-off always brings its challenges, and this game was no exception. As the final home game of the regular season, it was great to cap it off with a hard-fought 7-point victory.
While we played well enough to get the win, our intensity dipped a bit compared to last week’s game against Lakeside. It felt like the cold, wet morning led to a sluggish start for the boys.
Having Chandler back after three weeks was a big boost. He had a few rusty moments, but quickly shook it off, making solid contributions on both ends of the floor, especially on the boards.
The game was tight throughout, with neither team leading by more than 4 points, and it was all tied up at the end of the third quarter. We managed to create a bit of separation in the middle of the fourth and held our ground to secure the 7-point win.
It’s been a fantastic regular season for the boys, locking down the second spot on the ladder. I’m incredibly proud of their growth and progress this season.
Player of the game
U16 Girls Black – Stewart Winsor & Elijah Gray
Won against Willetton Tigers (77 – 46)
Coaches notes
We went into the game looking to secure top spot on the ladder, and that we did. We got away to a slow start offensively as our shots wouldn’t drop, but our defense was on point so there was no damage done. Mid way through the first quarter the flood gates opened and we never looked back extending our lead at every change. Our defense remained tight all game and each and every player that went on court did their part in securing our best team win of the season. Special mention to Imogen who was at her dangerous best in offence and defense. Let’s keep this going into the finals ladies!
Player of the game
Addi was this weeks player of round as she had her strongest game of the season. She looked more comfortable and confident on the court. She defended her areas aggressively, secured some rebounds and was cutting the key and getting to dangerous spots which allowed her to make her first 3 in WABL, all with a smile. Keep up the good work Addi!
U16 Girls Orange – Andrew Herbert
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (39 – 60)
Coaches notes
A tough road loss this week in Cockburn. The ladies started off strong against the Cougars who shot the ball well from outside. The ladies stayed positive as they tried to get back in the game but were unable to keep hold throughout the next 3 quarters.
Everyone was able to contribute both on or off the scoreboard resulting in team points.
Charlotte Herbert 14Pts
Holly Marsh 8Pts
Carmen Woods 7Pts
Player of the game
I have moved last Sunday’s POTR award to this Sunday, as I look forward to seeing what the ladies can bring in the quarter final, seeing them step up and elevate their game to another level to match finals intensity.
Be Hungry! 🍕
U16 Girls White – Daniel Heyman
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (28 – 58)
Coaches notes
Travelling to HBF Arena, we came out of the gate strong, only down by 1 point at the first break. From that point on we struggled to get into playing our own game, with the Wolves dictating terms at both ends.
We used this last week to trial some new team concepts which we will implement in the first round of the finals. Hopefully, this strategy bears fruit and helps us take it to the Hawks.
Player of the game
We’re holding off on a Player of the Week this round and will award it in the first round of finals.
U16 Boys Black – Declan Kinsella
(Sponsored by: Angus Flexible Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd)
Won against Cockburn Cougars (73 – 70)
Coaches notes
Player of the game
It’s tough to go past Bailey Ryan for this week’s player of the round. Bailey did a great job getting downhill to score 1 on 1 while playing spectacular 1 on 1 defense.
U16 Boys Orange – Hayden Bird
Won against Mandurah Magic (86 – 62)
Coaches notes
Player of the game
Cash Surin: Cash has worked very hard all season and the game against Mandurah only highlighted it. His scoring ability was complimented very well with his distribution of the ball and fast help perimeter defense. Great job Cash!
U16 Boys White – Thor Amundsen
Won against South West Slammers (73 – 48)
Coaches notes
A good-but-ugly win that required some grit and perseverance to get the required result. Some great passages of play within a scrappy game, but the result was in our favour.
Player of the game
Odin Amundsen is player of the round with his team first approach, seeking (and often finding) the team shot. This is something we look for in our offence and was great to view.
U16 Boys Blue – Derek Quayle
Won against Hills Raiders (94 – 59)
Coaches notes
To finish the season we put together a 4 quarter performance. We had a goal to win every quarter which I am proud to say we did.
23-11
20-14
21-17
30-17
Another all round performance from the team with everyone playing their role. We changed up our structure to run 2 bigs for the whole game with Lucas (18), Jacob (11) and Ben (6) all playing well and controlling the glass.
Sandrae (20) and Marcus (9) were very aggressive in defense and on the wings in offense and it was excellent to see their driving to the basket was paying off.
Ronron (20), Tom (7), Cooper (6) and Alex (2) all kept the pressure on defensively while moving the ball in offence.
Player of the game
Sandrae gets the player of the game this week. He has accepted his role change to become a fantastic 6th man for us. Today was evident of that with Sandrae scoring 20 points off the bench in a really well rounded effort.
U18 Girls Black – Rick Batista
Won against Perth Redbacks (67 – 62)
Coaches notes
The team was challenged hard this week with Perth jumping us early 17-6. But the girls stuck to the task with really tough defense and forced plenty of errors. We had a little to clean up in terms of polish, finishing around the basket and rebounding. But it’s still pleasing to have enough talent to run over the top of a good opposition. This might have been the best all-around team game played, with everyone doing bits and pieces to chip in.
Player of the game
It’s hard to look past Casey Meyer’s 29 points; she got the nod this week. She was a beast, cutting the Redbacks up, getting to the cup, and drawing fouls. It was pleasing to see her three-ball beginning to drop as a reward for the hard work she’s been putting in.
I have to give Ana an honourable mention again. As always, she works her backside off with 40 interceptions and 12 steals, setting the defensive tone for her squad. Amazing, Ana.
U18 Girls Orange – Charlie Smart (Sponsored by: Parker Crofts & Co)
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (39 – 60)
U18 Boys Black – Cooper Lowe (Sponsored by: Silverstone)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (70 – 80)
U18 Boys Orange – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: GJ Demo Pty Ltd)
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (60 – 67)
Coaches notes
The boys fought hard, but just couldn’t get the W in our final regular season game. It was a draw at half time and was anyone’s game, but a 9 point unanswered run from Lightning in the 3rd put us on the back foot for the rest of the game.
Our defense was good and we ran our offences and fast breaks pretty well, but it wasn’t enough. We had too many turn overs and didn’t shoot overly well compared to other games.
Kye stepped up with 5 strong rebounds down the defensive end and Jarron top scored with 15 points and 7 rebounds.
The boys have had a fantastic season, finishing top of the ladder and now it’s time to get to work in the finals.
Player of the game
Tom H continued his strong form ripping down rebounds, blocking shots and even making a nice 3 pointer.
U18 Boys White – Rae D’Sylva
Loss against Willetton Tigers (68 – 91)
Coaches notes
Player of the game
Linkoln West . Link was good on defense and also had a good offensive game taking the right shots.
U18 Boys Blue – Bailey Ferguson (Sponsored by: Amy Jacobson Pty Ltd)
Loss against Rockingham Flames (84 -91)
U20 Boys Black – Lochy Brown
Won against South West Slammers (97 – 68)
U21 Girls Black – Lizel Buckley
Won against Cockburn Cougars (84 – 79)
Coaches notes
Played really well to finish the season on a good note.
Looking forward to finals.
Player of the game
Rosie Leeder- Rosie had an outstanding game, leading from tip-off to the final buzzer. She was locked in, hitting most of her shots and leaving everything on the court.