All of our “Player of the Game” stars will be rewarded through the Grill’d Awesome Effort Award Program with a voucher for a FREE burger, thanks to our friends at Grill’d Midland!
Players of the Round:
Eunice Bakulikura (U14 Girls 1) 16 Points, 17 Rebounds, 4 Steals, 4 Blocks. Eunice continues to go from strength to strength. Next step is backing her to push in transition off defensive rebounds because once that clicks, look out. More importantly, her composure and decision-making have improved massively. Well deserved
Derek Coleman (U12 Boys Team 1) – Derrick had an outstanding all-round performance and played a huge role in helping us fight our way back into the game. Defensively, his intensity and pressure forced multiple turnovers and helped spark momentum for the team. Offensively, he was excellent both as a scorer and playmaker, creating opportunities for teammates while also carrying a large part of our scoring load. Derrick consistently stepped up in key moments and led by example with his effort and competitiveness all game long.
U12 Girls Team 1
Sponsored by: Diesel’s Mobile Mechanics
Coach: Bonnie Batista
Won against Lakeside Lightning (32 – 26)
Coaches notes
Another win for the books. The girls led the scoring all game this week. I am proud of their efforts. The girls are very smart at forcing turnovers and pushed Lakeside into uncomfortable situations that we were able to score off of. We will continue to grow and we will continue to take advantage of our strong defensive pressures to win games by more! Great work girls. A nice mother’s day win.
Player of the game
Ayla – Ayla was strong on both sides of the court this week. After fouling out early last week, we didn’t get to see Ayla at her full potential, but we definitely saw it this week and she was amazing! With a strong 12 points, Ayla led our scoring with some great mix of gold & silver medal shots. She was also strong defensively as she was trapping the Lakeside girls ant the sideline and forcing countless turnovers. Great work Ayla! We love to see it!
U12 Girls Team 2
Sponsored by: Scardifields Smash Repairs
Coach: Stuart Perazzo
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (11 – 42)
Coaches notes
A much improved performance from the girls this week against a bigger bodied and older group (this will be an expected theme this season). A noted improvement with our in-bound play and effort on defence was evident. Obviously substantial growth is still to occur but the glimpses we saw this week was encouraging. Keep up the hard work girls, the results will follow in time.
Player of the game
This weeks player of the round goes to Scout Power. Coming off an illness during the week, Scout showed grit and determination. She has made significant progress with her ball carrying skills, and her shooting is coming along well. Great work Scout, your extra practice at home is obvious.
U12 Girls Team 3
Sponsored by: RoverTech
Coach: Lizzie Falconbridge
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (2 – 72)
Coaches notes
The girls came up against a much older and taller team, with 10-year-olds playing against our 7–8-year-olds. Despite the challenge, our girls showed great determination, dribbled the ball well up the court, started strong, and kept fighting right until the final buzzer.
A big focus moving forward is looking for open gaps and driving to the side to attack the basket with confidence. Great effort from the whole team!
Player of the game
For Queen of the Court, we couldn’t go past Ella again. Her offence and defence never stopped all game, and she pushed the team to keep the intensity high from start to finish. Ella’s energy, determination, and hustle were outstanding, always giving 100% and making an impact wherever she was needed on the court. A true little pocket rocket who never gave up and led by example all game long!
U12 Boys Team 1
Sponsored by: West Coast Civil
Coach: Aiden Clothier
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (56 – 58)
Coaches notes
One of the biggest positives to take away from the game was our team’s resilience and determination throughout the contest. After finding ourselves down by 16 points, the boys never dropped their heads and continued to fight their way back into the game. Their effort and mentality in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter, was outstanding and showed the character this group has as a team.
What made the performance even more impressive was that it came against a team we struggled against during State Champs. To respond the way we did and eventually take the lead showed how much growth and resilience the team has developed since then. Defensively, our intensity lifted in the second half as the boys communicated better, helped each other, and played with far more urgency. Offensively, we played more unselfish basketball, trusted one another, and moved the ball well, which helped fuel our comeback.
Although we unfortunately weren’t able to secure the win, the fight and belief the boys showed was something to be proud of. The energy from the bench also played a massive role in helping shift momentum and fuel the run we went on.
Player of the game
Honestly, it was very difficult to pick a Player of the Game this week because every player had moments where they stepped up and contributed. However, for this game I have chosen Derrick Coleman. Derrick had an outstanding all-round performance and played a huge role in helping us fight our way back into the game. Defensively, his intensity and pressure forced multiple turnovers and helped spark momentum for the team. Offensively, he was excellent both as a scorer and playmaker, creating opportunities for teammates while also carrying a large part of our scoring load. Derrick consistently stepped up in key moments and led by example with his effort and competitiveness all game long.
U12 Boys Team 2
Sponsored by: ME Freight Management
Coach: Alia Gard
Won against Lakeside Lightning (42 – 30)
Coaches notes
The boys showed up with a very strong defensive pressure this week which stayed consistent throughout the game and set the tone for the match.
Second quarter felt rushed and our passing suffered under the speed of the game, but after half time the boys slowed it right down and brought everything back into place and the game flowed at our own pace. Every player who stepped onto court this game made an impact, the same intensity was felt throughout the game with all rotation of players, and everybody fully embraced their role and contributed to the game.
Player of the game
Arthur had a cracking game this week, he was such a strong court presence didn’t matter if he was running the lanes or brining the ball down the court he had good control and court vision. He did everything I asked of him and stepped up and took basket when he needed to.
U12 Boys Team 3
Sponsored by: Maintain
Coach: Bianca Powell
Won against Joondalup Wolves (75 – 29)
Coaches notes
Each week the boys step onto the court makes me so proud to see the improvement, dedication, and teamwork continuing to grow. Their drive to succeed is evident every game, and watching the way they support and work for each other on the court is such a delight to see. Keep up the amazing work boys — I’m so proud of each and every one of you and can’t wait to see what the rest of the season brings!
Player of the game
This week’s Player of the Week was a tough choice because every single player has stepped onto the court and shown their growth, effort, and determination, but this week goes to Blake! We’ve always known what you’re capable of, and over the last few weeks you’ve stepped back onto the court with confidence and brought your A game. Your impact, effort, and growth have been amazing to watch. Keep believing in yourself and keep pushing Blake, you’re smashing it and I can’t wait to watch your continued growth this season!
U12 Boys Team 4
Sponsored by: RoverTech
Coach: Lizzie Falconbridge
Loss against Perth Redbacks (41 – 43)
Coaches notes
Defence was magnificent and remained consistent throughout the entire game, showing strong discipline, communication, and determination. Players worked hard to apply pressure, contest shots, and support one another, which made it difficult for the opposition to find rhythm. There is clear development in shot selection under pressure, with players beginning to make smarter decisions, showing patience and improved awareness in key moments.
Offensively, the team demonstrated excellent teamwork, moving the ball well and creating opportunities through unselfish play. There was strong penetration into the key, allowing for high-percentage scoring chances and putting the defence under constant strain. The players showed confidence driving to the basket and maintained good spacing across the court.
Overall, skills and fundamentals were of a high standard. Passing, dribbling, and positioning continue to improve, contributing to a well-rounded performance. With continued focus on decision-making and consistency, this team is building a strong foundation for ongoing success.
Player of the game
Theo Massam delivered a strong all-round performance, showcasing excellent offence and aggressive defence throughout the game. His ball control was a standout, allowing him to maintain composure under pressure and make effective plays. Theo consistently gave 100%, demonstrating great effort, determination, and intensity in every moment on the court. He read the play exceptionally well, anticipating passes and positioning himself to make an impact. His ability to attack the ball with confidence created opportunities and disrupted the opposition, making him a key contributor to the team’s overall performance.
U14 Girls Team 1
Sponsored by: Black Hawk Industrial Supplies
Coach: Rick Batista
Loss against Rockingham Flames (41 – 72)
Coaches notes
Rockingham are a tough, well-disciplined team who move the ball extremely well in transition — something we’re aspiring to improve in ourselves. They’ve really been putting teams to the sword lately and smacked us the last time we played them, so to hold sway for large periods of this game showed me just how much steady improvement this group is making.
The stats also paint a very clear picture of the areas we need to continue working on. A 46-25 turnover count and a 68-40 rebound count won’t win many games, even for the best teams in the world. When you give up 41 offensive rebounds and turn the ball over on 45.5% of your possessions, it results in roughly 41 fewer shot attempts — and that’s incredibly hard to overcome against quality opposition. Still, the growth, effort and resilience from the group continues to show each week. Back into the lab this week to keep working on our weaknesses, and as always, we march forward.
Player of the game
This week’s Player of the Week was incredibly close. Huge shoutout first to May Cooper, whose 10 points while shooting 3/4 from deep kept us in the contest all day
But this week it was impossible to look past our rock in the middle — Eunice Bakulikura – 16 Points, 17 Rebounds, 4 Steals, 4 Blocks Eunice continues to go from strength to strength. Next step is backing her to push in transition off defensive rebounds because once that clicks, look out. More importantly, her composure and decision-making have improved massively. Well deserved
U14 Girls Team 2
Sponsored by: Belliss Custom Creations
Coach: Adam Chambers
Won against Willetton Tigers (44 – 43)
Coaches notes
After a slow start that saw us trailing at half time, the girls came out firing in the third quarter, putting up a massive 23 points off intense defensive pressure and countless steals. The game stayed neck and neck right until the final few minutes, but crucial free throws from Lahlita gave us a 3-point lead when it mattered most. Every single player showed out with atleast 1 steal each and either a selfless pass to a teammate or a score themselves. Once again, our defence stood tall in the closing minute, with the girls digging in to hold on for an incredible 1 point win. A tough, gritty team performance and a great reward for the effort shown all game. We go into our bye weekend with 3 wins!!
Player of the game
Jerayah Weedon earns our Player of the Round after an absolutely massive performance on both ends of the floor. Jerayah sparked our momentum swing with a huge three pointer and never looked back, finishing as top scorer with 17 points. From huge rebounds and putback buckets to big blocks, tough finishes and smooth spin moves, she had every trick in the book on display. Her energy and intensity got the whole crowd fired up and she played a massive role in helping us get over the line in such a close game. She has settled in to the team very nicely and this is just the start of an upcoming superstar!! Well done Rayah!!
U14 Girls Team 3
Sponsored by: Eddie Bosuen
Coach: Blake Marten
Loss against East Perth Eagles (24 – 28)
Coaches notes
The girls handled a full court press a lot better than last week which was a good improvement to see. We forced a lot of jump balls through our determination and hustle fighting to win the ball back. Our ball movement was a highlight as we created a lot of opportunities throughout passes and our handoff actions. The girls are continuously showing improvement every week and I am so proud of their efforts.
Player of the game
Winter-Roses impact goes beyond stats. As mentioned last week, she continues to be our defensive anchor. Her effort whether it’s rebounding on both sides of the floor or stopping the other team’s fast break is unmatched.
U14 Boys Team 1
Sponsored by: SWISH
Coach: Adrian Mok
Won against Cockburn Cougars (73 – 37)
U14 Boys Team 2
Coach: Ben Marks
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (38 – 90)
Coaches notes
The game started off well, going basket for basket with our opponent. Unfortunately, this did not last, as the opposition then stepped up their defensive pressure. With some lengthy athletes they took over the game, and we were unable to respond despite many efforts to change things up. They gained confidence from easy turnover baskets and nailed a barrage of threes in the second quarter to take a commanding lead into half time. We had a goal of winning the second half and came very close due to some better ball movement and commitment to defense. The second half ended up being 31-25.
Some positives to take out of the game was the second half resilience in the face of a heavy defeat. Some of the boys battled hard on the rebounds against some tall timber and defense was of much better quality, forcing some turnovers of our own and containing the three-point shot.
Player of the game
Player of the round this week was one of the bright spots in the game. Once again, an even contribution across the board, especially in the first half. This week it is Lucas, who controlled the ball well with heavy pressure, got himself some key points when we needed them and moved the ball well to get us some good looks. Well done, Lucas!
U14 Boys Team 3
Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd
Coach: Sebastian Irving
Loss against Perth Redbacks (54 – 73)
Coaches notes
We started a bit slow this week with the Redbacks getting out to a 9 point lead to end the first. We fought back during the second and ended the half only down 2 points. In a game of runs we went back and forth all game, unfortunately Perth pulled away at the end. Credit to the boys for sticking with it for majority of the game.
Player of the game
Player of the round goes to Carter Murdoch. Carter was massive on the boards this week, chasing after everything on both ends of the floor. He also put up 12 tough points, getting to his spots in the post and going to work. Defensively was fantastic, racking up steals and helping his teammates.
U14 Boys Team 4
Sponsored by: Retravision
Coach: Nathan La Cava
Loss against Mandurah Magic (57 – 61)
Coaches notes
The best part of this weeks game, was Cooper Pearson making his WABL debut and not only watching him drop hist first WABL points, but hearing the cheer from his team mates when he did. As a coach, I just love seeing the lads building that positive team energy and being around each other for the highs and the lows of a basketball game.
The game itself was another tightly contested battle, and it was good to see us get out to a quick start, which has been a focus for us to build momentum and confidence in our game. Defensively we defintely contained the ball, and made Mandurah work for their score. While we covered well, intensity was not at the level we want to play as a team, I would like to see us not only slow teams down, but to shut them down and hold them to much lower scores to give us an advantage, even if we are having a slow game offensively.
In offence, we did get some good ball and player movement in transition and ran our motion offence and created some good scoring opportunities. We are still battling too many turnovers from either poor decisions under pressure, which we know how to deal with, but choosing panic over composure, and in some cases just basic skill error. Back to the lab….
Player of the Game
This weeks player of the game was Emmanuel Osei-Bonsu with 22 points, solid rebounding and improving defense. Emmanuel while benefiting from the support of his team, is a consistent anchor for us every week. Well done Emmanuel! Enjoy the Grilld Burger of champions!!
U16 Girls Team 1
Sponsored by: Perth Hills Pilates
Coach: Lawrence West
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (76 – 57)
Coaches notes
This week we put it all together with a statement win. A big result against a team that beat us by 20 points at grading. We went in with a clear game plan and the girls executed it brilliantly. We shared the ball extremely well, with 25 of our 31 made baskets coming from assists. We were patient on offense, made good adjustments, and found ways to pick apart whatever defensive scheme Hawks threw at us. Our rebounding effort was much improved, and our shooting percentages continue to creep up each week, which is a credit to the work the girls are putting in at training and at home.
Putting together our best team game of the season so far on Mother’s Day was the icing on the cake. Happy Mother’s Day to all our amazing Suns mums!
Player of the Game
This week we saw fantastic performances across the board, but two athletes share top honours.
Audrey Trapp
If our division did not know Audrey’s name before this game, they do now. In her first start of the season she delivered 20 points on ridiculous efficiency, going 7/7 inside the arc and 2/4 from three, with 4 assists, 8 rebounds and 2 steals.
Victoria Mathiang
Vicky was a clear focus for the defense and Hawks tried everything to rattle her. She showed great resilience, blocked out the noise and kept impacting the game, finishing with 15 points, 15 rebounds and 5 blocks.
Massive effort from both, well done.
U16 Girls Team 2
Sponsored by: SG Enviro
Coach: Daniel Heyman
Won against Perth Redbacks (67 – 57)
Coaches notes
Facing a red-hot Redbacks team who scored over 90 points a game in the first 2 rounds, we knew were up for a challenge. Both teams arm-wrestled throughout the first half and were tied, until the Redbacks hit a buzzer beating 3 to jump us heading into the main break. We were in a physical battle and needed to match the intensity of Perth. In the third quarter we struggled to find quality shots. Down 10 going into the last period it was time to step it up. Behind outstanding ball pressure and disciplined help defence, we stormed away in the fourth to take a 10-point victory.
It was an outstanding team effort and great show of resilience in what was our first come from behind victory. We look forward to facing the other undefeated team, Lakeside, in our round 3 top of the table clash.
Player of the game
Lucy Rechichi: In a game we needed toughness, Lucy fought to help lock down the paint and make life difficult for anyone trying to score around the hoop. Her defensive execution and effort were impeccable. Showing great basketball IQ, Lucy got to positions of advantage on offence and was efficient finishing inside. Our great “disruptor” was a menace for a bruising Redbacks team, and just what we needed to get over the line. Amazing effort, Lucy!
U16 Girls Team 3
Sponsored by: Lamp Accounting
Coach: Scott Parker
Loss against Mandurah Magic (41 – 91)
Coaches notes
This week was another strong step forward for the group. Our defensive effort was excellent, and our team structure is becoming more solid and consistent each week. The girls are continuing to build confidence in our systems and are showing great commitment to playing team basketball.
One of the biggest positives was our ability to work our way out of the opposition’s back court defensive pressure. The composure the girls showed in these situations was very encouraging and demonstrated the progress we are making as a team. There are still areas we can improve, particularly in reducing turnovers and converting more of our scoring opportunities. As our shooting percentage improves and we continue to value possession, we will make life much tougher for our opponents.
It was also fantastic to see the girls remain positive and supportive throughout the entire game. Their ability to celebrate the little wins right through to the final buzzer showed great character, resilience and team spirit. Overall, the growth, effort and willingness to learn continue to be a real highlight each week.
Player of the game
Imogen Chambers. Although she fouled out in the fourth quarter, her defensive effort throughout the game was outstanding and played a major role in the team’s intensity. Her ability to rail her player to the side line in defence was excellent and showed great understanding of our defensive principles. Imogen continues to improve her decision making week on week, showing growing confidence and composure with the ball. Her rebounding was also a real strength and helped give the team valuable extra possessions.
U16 Girls Team 4
Sponsored by: NewTrend IT
Coach: Andy Zell
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (36 – 40)
Coaches notes
A tough 40–36 loss to Cougars 4 this week, but another strong performance against an undefeated team sitting in second place. After falling behind in the first half, the group responded brilliantly, fighting back to take the lead heading into the fourth quarter. We had multiple opportunities late to secure the win and continued to play our brand of basketball right to the final siren.
Every player contributed with scoring, effort, and intensity. Rebounding was a major focus for us, and the group responded by winning the rebound count in every quarter. Defensively, we protected the paint well and forced Cockburn into difficult, low-percentage shots. Most pleasing has been the continued growth of the group. The girls are showing increasing composure in high-pressure moments and a strong commitment to playing for each other.
Player of the game
Ruby Chang earns Player of the Round after an outstanding all-round performance, finishing with 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in transition. Coming off the bench as a guard, Ruby applied relentless defensive pressure and used her foot speed to create opportunities on both ends of the floor. Most importantly, she is continuing to develop her ability to control both her speed and the tempo of the game, showing excellent growth each week.
U16 Boys Team 1
Sponsored by: VC Rigging
Coach: Brock Lowe
Won against Lakeside Lightning (87 – 76)
Coaches notes
FINALLY! After 3 rounds we finally get ourselves on the winners list. It didn’t come easy as we didn’t play our game for the first half very much a grind.
We brought energy and effort defensively in the 2nd half which saw us score a 28-12 last qtr to come from behind and win. Super proud of everyone for fighting through adversity and getting a much deserved win.
Player of the game
This week it goes to a player that has had more attention from opponents for his skill and development but he continues to prove to everyone why he is a talented individual
Is the dictionary considered a book?
His defender never knew where to look!
Had the whole stadium shook!
32 points for that man Leyton Rooke!
U16 Boys Team 2
Sponsored: GJ Demo Pty Ltd
Coach: Tyler Cameron
Loss against Perth Redback (76 – 89)
Coaches notes
From a team perspective, there were some great positive takeaways from the game. We showed some really strong flashes throughout, particularly when playing in transition where we were able to move the ball well and create good momentum. When we were organised and settled into our structures, we consistently found great scoring opportunities and quality looks offensively.
Player of the game
Jesse Paulson, did all the right thing. Defensively super active and did a good job forcing turnovers, he did well attacking out of actions, also did well getting in the right spot.
U16 Boys Team 3
Sponsored by: #RISETOGETHER
Coach: Derek Quayle
Won against Cockburn Cougars (77 – 62)
Coaches notes
A slow start saw us trail early, with the Cougars jumping out to an 8-point lead. But after regaining our composure, we flipped the momentum with a strong 14–4 run to close the first quarter and take a 2-point lead into the break.
The second quarter is where we really found our groove by locking in defensively and executing offensively to dominate 18–8 and stretch the lead to 12. From there, we stayed in control, edging the second half and closing out a solid win.
Kyan led all scorers with an impressive 26 points, sparked by relentless pressure in our press.
Alijah added 17, including an ankle-breaking move that led to an open three-pointer
Mathew chipped in with 11, consistently causing problems for the opposition.
Damon delivered a huge defensive moment with 3 blocks in 20 seconds, capped off by an incredible block by pinning the ball against the backboard, while also scoring 8 points.
Player of the game
Alijah takes out Player of the Game this round with a composed and controlled performance. He dictated the tempo all night – knowing exactly when to slow things down and when to push the pace. Calm under pressure while bringing the ball up the court, he made smart decisions and led from the front while also finishing with 17 points.
U16 Boys Team 4
Sponsored by: S W Hart & Co
Coach: Hayden & Nathan Bird
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (63 – 74)
U18 Girls Team 1
Sponsored by: Handmade by Amelia
Coach: Zac Belton
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (53 – 77)
U18 Girls Team 2
Coach: Rae D’Sylva
Won against Mandurah Magic (80 – 53)
Coaches notes
This week We took on mandurah who were on top of the ladder with two convincing wins scoring almost 100 in both games. We have worked hard at trainings on our different Defencive strategies and it showed again this week as we kept mandurah to 50 points. Our rebounding was incredible with Jade, matilda, Ashley and jess locking down on both ends of the court while Ashlyn and Eunice and macee were key while running our trapp. Our offence was much better again this week as the girls all got on the scoreboard and set their teammates up with some impressive assists.
Player of the game
Holly Marsh is the player of the round. Holly has a work engine that never stops on court on both ends. Her ability to switch from defence and run the floor is a asset to any team as she scored 36 points this week .
U18 Boys Team 1
Coaches: Ron Flores
Loss against Warwick Senators (86 – 98)
Coaches notes
The first half was a real arm wrestle, we jumpers out to an early lead and then Warwick made some adjustments offensively and started to swing the momentum back their way. Some lapses defensively really brought a few of their shooter into the game and they ended the first half up 14.
At half time we made some adjustments and it was our turn to have the momentum and at one point erased the margin to 3, but defensive lapses and poor communication were costly giving up 11 made threes largely uncontested and we finished the game 12 points down.
Positives are we had opportunities to win that game, we will work on closing those gaps.
Player of the game
Honourable Mention:
Jackson McClure was again huge, worked tirelessly for 26 points to go with a double digit rebounding game.
Odin Amundsen did a bit of everything and finished with 15 points.
Lee Edwards ended up with 14 points but had a few more dropped could have easily finished with 20+.
But this weeks player of the game is Anthony Flores, we set him a few challenges this week and he took them up head on, worked relentlessly on both ends of the floor and his intangibles really galvanised the group.
U18 Boys Team 2
Sponsored: IPI Packers
Coach: Michael Fido
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (69 – 64)
Coaches notes
From a team perspective there were plenty of positive takeaways from yesterday’s win against Perry Lakes. Sitting on top of the ladder is a reflection of the work the boys are putting in and the way we’re continuing to grow as a group. Our ball movement and transition offence were a real highlight, especially in the first half where we moved the ball up the floor with pace and made good reads against the defensive triggers Perry Lakes presented. That allowed us to build a 14-point lead in the second quarter and forced them to abandon their man-to-man defence and switch into a 2-3 zone.
That shift also exposed an area for growth for us as a team. Once the zone came in, we struggled at times with spacing, patience and execution, which allowed Perry Lakes to claw their way back and take a four-point lead with three minutes remaining. The biggest positive though was the resilience and composure the lads showed late in the game. Nobody dropped their heads, everyone stayed connected, trusted each other and responded under pressure. To finish the game strongly and come away with a five-point win says a lot about the character, toughness and togetherness of this group.
Player of the round
Ajang Gayo. AJ played an excellent game yesterday. He rebounded the ball really well, especially late in the game with some strong offensive boards. He also hit 2 from 2 from the Trip line and ran the lanes hard in transition.
U18 Boys Team 3
Sponsored by: DUG Technology
Coach: Doug Bainbridge
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (85 – 67)
Coaches notes
A strong bounce‑back performance from the 18.3s this week, securing a convincing win built on pressure, effort, and improved shot discipline.
The group again showed their defensive identity, applying consistent full‑court pressure to disrupt the opposition and force a season high 40 turnovers. That intensity created extra possessions and opportunities throughout the game and the pressure we are applying is fast becoming this teams identity.
Offensively, there were positive signs with better shot selection and a clear effort to avoid settling, while strong work on the offensive boards provided valuable second‑chance opportunities.
Despite the win, the match also highlighted areas for continued growth. After successfully breaking the opposition’s press, the team didn’t always capitalise on the advantage, and improving how they flow into actions will be a key focus moving forward.
Overall, an encouraging performance that reinforces the team’s identity while providing clear direction for continued development.
Player of the game
A well‑deserved Player of the Round performance from Tristan Tabakovic, whose impact was built on composure, discipline, and outstanding work on the glass. Returning from illness, Tristan finished with 12 rebounds (7 offensive), repeatedly finding the ball against a much bigger Perry Lakes lineup.
What the stats don’t show is how often Tristan was competing against multiple taller players and still coming up with key rebounds, I think he out rebounded their entire team in one possession! He also played within our offence, shooting an efficient 4–6, showing strong growth in decision‑making.
A big step forward and a great example of doing the right things consistently.
U18 Boys Team 4
Sponsored by: Shade Experience
Coach: Jasper Ferguson
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (77 – 81)
Coaches notes
We had an outstanding fourth quarter. Our clutch time when we needed a bucket most, the boys never dropped there heads. We were down 15 then it got to 10 and before we knew it it was a 2-point game. We just missed the game tying shot. We gave up a foul which unfortunately resulted in an Unsportsmanlike to stop the play. We unfortunately couldn’t get the ball back in on time. Very good game hustle wise.
Player of the game
Player of the round goes to Lucas Grey, despite only putting up 6 points. Lucas had a monstrous game on the glass. Grabbing rebounds left right and centre. He had over 10 rebounds in the first half and 4+ blocks. Being an absalute rim defender. Very impressive to see from Lucas this week.
Go suns
U20 Boys 1
Coach: Louis Timms
Loss against Southwest Slammers (69 – 80)
Coaches notes
We did a much better job this week on rebounds and have fixed up a lot of our issues with transition defence. There have been some individual improvements seen with regards to our jumping and contesting the ball. The boys are starting to realise the level of physicality and competitiveness that is needed to win games. Outcomes aside we are moving in the right direction, and we have a good group of players who are keen to get better.
A special thankyou to Eusaint who has been our unofficial captain up until this point of the season. He has been tremendous for us and has really helped the team chemistry through his unselfish play and open communication. Eusaint is leaving us to start his training in the Airforce. We wish him all the very best and a safe trip to the Eastern states.
Player of the game
The player of the round goes to Elias. Elias has turned a massive corner with his rebounding and effort on the court. He was very impactful for us against the Slammers setting the tone for others to follow.
U20 Boys Team 2
Sponsored by: ComWiz Computers
Coach: Dave Gan
Won against Warwick Senators (80 – 63)
Coaches Notes
We waltz into this game off back to back big wins to only be humbled early on in the first half and I consider that a positive takeaway in a teaching stand point that we can’t just come into a game with a lack of intensity and expect to win. Even tho it was probably the most average first 3 qrts of all qrts we’ve played throughout grading to now, the score was tied up until the start of the 4th.
Leadership was shown by a few players, Deacon suggested we went zone (something I’m never keen on this early in the season) but him showing how he’s reading the offense I decided sure.. why not for 1qrt it won’t hurt. We came out that qrt on something like a 10-0 run before pulling away to win by 17. Overall… we got the job done.. learnt a few things which is always great, and onto the next one.
Player of the game
Without a doubt first time WABL player James Polinelli has shown consistent play each week and he’s proving why he’s going to be a huge piece in this seasons run. On a day where some were sick, inj, and fatigue. James was crucial rebounding on both ends. and why not throw in a couple of 3s and 10pts as well
There is NO WAY we would be tied going into the 4th if it wasn’t for his hustle and intensity. This young man goes out, does his job, doesn’t whine cry when he is wide open and doesn’t get the ball to shoot, never drops his shoulder, the ultimate team player and it’s an absolute travesty that his first WABL season will be his only one as a top ager, but he’s making up for it fast!
U21 Girls
Coach: Charlie Smart
Won against Cockburn Cougars (91 – 77)
Coaches Notes
It was always going to be a tough contest taking on Cockburn on their home court, but our group came out firing. We matched Cockburn basket for basket in a tight, high‑energy first half. Midway through the second quarter, we found our rhythm offensively, spacing the floor well, pushing the ball ahead early, and creating quality open looks that helped us build momentum. Our on ball defence was relentless forcing good high-pressure turnovers in the back court.
Cockburn fought back reducing the deficit with some strong perimeter shooting before we managed to start closing out and keep a hand on the shooters. After the reset and commitment to lockdown defence, the group steadied and closed out the game with composure, earning a well‑deserved win on the road.
Some solid performances again from Skye and Grace in all aspects of the game not just on the score board but the win is attributed to the full team who’s support and encouragement of each other grows every week. A highlight was a seemless give and go from Holly, giving Lisa her first points of the game and our execution of our team structures creating superb open shots.
Player of the game
Player of the game this week goes to Charlie. As well as scoring 27 points, Charlie’s work rate set the tone at both ends of the floor, crashing the boards, picking off steals, and pushing the ball with strong, confident drives. She executed our offensive structures with poise, turning good decisions into simple, high‑percentage points for the team.
What stood out most was her effort, Charlie never stopped running, never dropped her intensity, and carried herself as a positive role model for her teammates from start to finish.
Well done to all teams and we look forward to round 4!