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:
Jess Prior (U18 Girls Orange) – Jess Prior is our well-deserved player of the round. She set the tone for us throughout the game with a standout performance – dominating the boards, playing tough defence, and hitting key shots, including two of her trademark threes. Jess is a team-first player, always listening, adapting, and doing whatever’s needed to help the group. Her recent form has been impressive, and we’re thrilled to have her as part of the team. Keep it up, Jess!
Tadiwa Kukodzi (U16 Boys Black) – Tadi’s hard-nosed approach to the game is something that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet but it never goes unnoticed. His relentless effort, fearless attitude, and willingness to battle against bigger and taller opponents in the paint speaks volumes. His ability to disrupt, contest, and challenge plays at both ends of the court is invaluable. Well done, Tadi. Keep pushing, keep battling, and stay committed to the process.
U12 Girls Black
Sponsored by: Clever Fox Marketing
Coach: Lizzie Falconbridge
Loss against East Perth Eagles (26 – 28)
U12 Girls Orange
Sponsored by: Diesel’s Mobile Mechanics
Coach: Bonnie Batista
Won against Joondalup Wolves (30 – 23)
Coaches notes
This was a good win!! The girls started with energy and intent in the first quarter and we lead the entire game. Some mistakes we can work on where we let them catch up a tiny bit but they worked hard to finish in front. This week, the girls teamwork was phenomenal! It’s very clear we are improving each week. The girls are starting to make the right decisions, or atleast better ones each time! Both offence and defence were strong this week! I was a proud coach!
Player of the game
Izzy Salmon!
Each team needs an Izzy, she is the biggest cheerleader for every player and each week Izzy listens to her feedback and she’s ready each training session to work hard and improve. This week she was our energy. I tried something new and put her in the starting 5 and she brought the energy each time which lead her teammates to match her level and work just as hard!
Good job Iz, keep it up!!
U12 Girls White
Coach: Bianca Powell
Loss against Hill Raiders (12 – 56)
U12 Boys Black
Sponsored by: Rover Tech
Coach: Lizzie Falconbridge
Loss against Willetton Tigers (34 – 61)
Coaches notes
After taking on the top team last week, we faced the second-ranked side this week—a great opportunity to measure ourselves against the best. The boys were ready to play in the first quarter this week. We dealt with the early defensive pressure by moving the ball ahead for fast break baskets and forcing some turnovers to take a one point quarter time lead. While the second and third quarters didn’t go our way on the scoreboard, they offered plenty of learning moments. Ball movement and defensive intensity dropped off during this stretch, giving our opponents the edge. Despite the scoreboard pressure, the boys showed great resilience, continuing to compete right to the final siren. Spencer Massam’s long, running three pointer at the full time buzzer was a highlight that hopefully will lift the boys going into our next game.
Player of the game
Jett Christie celebrated on the eve of his 11th birthday by playing an excellent all around game, running well, attacking the defense and finishing at the basket. We needed more of him out there. Well done Jett!
U12 Boys Orange
Coach: Nathan La Cava
Won against Warwick Senators (43 – 37)
Coaches notes
This was a hard fought win by our boys, and they did a really good job staying tough consistently through the whole game. Missing one of our offensive guns with AJ Brar out for this game. It was a great opportunity for other players to step up. Our engine room of Nate Farrier (17pts), Tane Broadwith (10pts) & Zac Daly (6pts) kept the score ticking over while also running or defence at a high pace. They were well supported by their team mates, with Zac Qian (11 rbds) & Jeremiah James (9pts) being monsters under the ring, ripping down 20 rebounds between them. Our second unit were solid again this week, and it has been a really positive move for the team with Charlie Wen (3pts), Isaac Edwards, Kevin Zhang, all were valuable with their possessions both defensively and offensively. Munashe Rukodzi was flying literally horizontally around the court with some great steals and generally wreaking havoc on the other team. We need to understand composure late in the game where we are defending a lead. Again we showed that we are a fit and fast team and generally do our best work in the second half when other teams are tiring.
Another good win this week.
Player of the game
Player of the game was difficult this week Nate Farrier & Tane Broadwith played the whole game with intense defense but low foul count and really pushed offensively. Nate Farrier was our player of the game with 17 points and a really solid second half. Well done Nate.
U12 Boys White
Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd
Coach: Terrence Murdoch
Won against Perry Lake Hawks (63 – 49)
Coaches notes
Round 8 saw us on the road to Bendat Stadium to take on the 6-1 Perry Lakes Hawks on their home floor. We spent time at training preparing for the press which gave us a hard time in Round 1, and it paid dividends. Our guards were able to pick their way through the press and find open teammates down the court for great looks at the basket and from mid-range, with the boys shooting a high clip in the first half.
Showing further growth, our half-court offense was patient and controlled. We had multiple resets, working the ball around, generating good motion with hand-offs and basket cuts, breaking down the Hawks defence throughout the game. In the second half, Perry Lakes fought back. However, the boys dug in their heels, refocused on closing out to shooters, battled hard on the glass against the tall Hawks front-line and finished the game strong.
We left Bendat with our third straight win thanks to a well-rounded team performance on both ends of the floor, showing real growth and a sense of identity beginning to form. We will have to keep working hard at training to maintain this momentum. Great win boys!
Player of the game
Very tough to pick a player of the game this week. Shout outs to Arona Gopolang, who was instrumental in beating the press, and Theo Birks, continuing his strong form and showing he’s a reliable, high-effort two-way player.
This week’s player of the game is Carter Murdoch. Carter was solid inside — boxing out, rebounding, contesting shots, and anchoring the defence. His passing is an under-rated part of his game, helping kickstart transition with strong outlets. Keep working on finishing under pressure and you’ll be a force inside. Keep it up big fella!
U12 Boys Blue
Sponsored by: Maintain
Coach: Dean Simmons
Loss against Mandurah Magic (45 – 71)
Coaches notes
Facing the top team was always going to be tough, but that didn’t stop our boys taking it to them in some of the best basketball they’ve played yet! A bit of a bumpy start called for a slight adjustment then we were off, we we’re 3 points off our target in the 1st & if we had just tightened up our ball movement we’d have succeeded. The 2nd saw a lot of back and forth as we really found our rhythm Mandurah became aggressive even knocking down Andrej who toughed it out & answered back with a free throw, Amir really showing potential with rebounds & reads we trailed only by 11. The 3rd was all us in one of the best quarter we’ve ever played, everything came together with Jaxon putting everything together really well and everyone executing their role with precision with multiple steals, key assists and forced turnovers. We met their aggression accurately & Mandurah got in foul trouble, our defense was strong especially Isaac’s defensive pressure and Max’s rebounding and screens we ended the 3rd trailing by 6. Unfortunately the 4th we fell apart, we were gassed & shorthanded from injuries but we’re proud of our boys! Really looking forward to the home game this Sunday based on how we performed!
Player of the game
Amir had a quite start, however when he came back off the bench he was on, he played with confidence and executed his shots fantastically. Some shots were put backs and other was great positioning once even going coast to coast, with forced turnovers and steals he’s come a long way. Phenomenal effort champion!!
U14 Girls Black
Sponsored by: Midland Mitsubishi
Coach: Lawrence West
Loss against Willetton Tigers (39 – 49)
Coaches notes
While we didn’t come away with the win, this was a clear step forward from the last time we played them. We defended the paint with intent, holding Tigers to just 24.5% shooting inside, and competed well on the glass in a physical contest. The defensive intensity was there throughout, but some lapses on the perimeter proved costly, with Tigers converting 6/10 three-point attempts.
Offensively, our structure was disrupted, but we played with purpose and aggression, drawing fouls, consistently putting pressure on the basket and earning 30 FT attempts. While we didn’t convert at a high rate, the intent to play through contact and stay on the front foot was evident. Turnovers remain a focus, but we forced plenty of our own and stayed in the contest right to the end. This performance showed how far we’ve come since our last meeting with this team. Now it’s about tightening up the details and turning effort into results.
Player of the game
Sarah Aird – Sarah brought effort and intent from the moment she stepped on the floor. She was relentless in transition, disrupted passing lanes, and consistently made smart plays. Her hustle set the tone on defence, and she added 8 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals and an assist in a game where her presence lifted the group.
Honourable Mentions: Cara led our scoring with strong inside play. Dani created off the dribble and attacked the rim with purpose. Bel gave us energy at both ends and finished efficiently in key moments.
U14 Girls Orange
Sponsored by: KTRANS
Coach: Zac Belton
Loss against Rockingham Flames (32 – 59)
U14 Girls White
Sponsored by: Pat Rando Homes
Coach: Adam Chambers
Loss against Southwest Slammers (32 – 48)
Coaches notes
This week we faced the division-leading Slammers, aiming to play our brand of basketball – strong defensive pressure, out-rebound, control the paint, and stay composed. The girls came out firing, bringing energy and rattling the Slammers early. Our defence forced turnovers, but we couldn’t fully capitalise, finishing Q1 with a 9–8 lead. In Q2, the Slammers came out strong with 4 quick points. Our girls responded with an 8–0 run, but a late push from the Slammers saw us down 17–24 at half-time. Q3 turned into a defensive battle, with both teams digging in. The girls stayed composed and held the Slammers to just 7 points for the quarter. While our defence stood tall, we couldn’t convert key chances, and the margin remained. Heading into Q4, we set clear goals and came out determined. The girls showed great fight, but a few costly turnovers and missed extra passes allowed the Slammers to take control. They won the quarter 15–9 and sealed the game.
Despite the result, there was plenty to like – the pressure, hustle, and intent were there. With improved execution and consistency across 4 quarters, this team is building towards something special.
Player of the game
This week’s POTR was a tough choice after such a strong team performance, but Eliza “Bob” Eaton stood out with one of her best games yet. We’ve been working hard on Bob’s confidence and role, and she delivered in style – smart shot selection, great passing, strong rebounding, and real composure. Awesome effort, Bob!
Special shoutouts to Sandra Chan for top scoring, and Ruby, Indi, Abby, and Imogen for solid contributions on the scoreboard. The whole team’s defensive effort was outstanding. A brilliant all-round performance from the group – keep building, girls!
U14 Girls Blue
Sponsored by: DCI Group
Coach: Kym Buckingham
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (23 – 84)
Coaches notes
This week saw us face up against a strong and physical opposition in lakeside. We knew this would be a challenge before the game after illness hitting our team this week. This was further compounded by an early injury and foul trouble. The girls didn’t let that stop them, they kept fighting till the end. The girls shots weren’t dropping but that didn’t stop them the kept their heads up. The score doesn’t accurately reflect the game as the fought hard and just didn’t have the finish.
Player of the game
Ellah brings her best every week. She brings high intensity defensive always making the ball handler fight to get past. She makes excellent space all the time and is a great vocal leader on the court and trainer. Well done also on nailing your first 3 in a game.
U14 Boys Black
Coach: Declan Kinsella
Loss against Willetton Tigers (59 – 67)
U14 Boys Orange
Coach: Ben Marks
Won against Cockburn Cougars (59 – 48)
Coaches notes
A great team effort today with many different contributors. An even first quarter saw the lead change several times before we opened a slight lead moving into half time. The third quarter saw us come out firing pushing the lead out to double figures with some great ball movement and some tough finishing from all parts of the court. The 4th saw us push the lead out to 20 points before a momentum change in the final minutes seeing the margin reduce slightly.
Our multiple efforts on the boards were a highlight this week as was our ability to finish inside the paint. All 10 players came on ready to play this week and we were able to play consistently for a long period of time which made it difficult for our opponents to gain any momentum. Special mention to the hustle and rebounding of Nathanael this week and the contributions of Lucas and Zane who had improved games, making the most of their minutes as starters.
Player of the game
Player of the round this week goes to Frank. He played with greater composure as one of our primary ball handlers and distributers. He made some key baskets when we needed them and managed to get his teammates some easy buckets from well-timed passes. This was definitely one of his stronger games this season. Well done, Frank!
U14 Boys White
Coach: Dave Gan
Won against East Perth Eagles (47 – 36)
Coaches notes
Dave took the opportunity this week to watch the game and observe so he could see the game from a different perspective, which meant Mark took on the coaching duties with Eusaint assisting in this game. After conceding 21 offensive rebounds last week and close to 20 turnovers, the boys were challenged to crash the glass and take better care of the ball. The first half had its ups and downs with the team not showing the type of intent they had in previous weeks. If it wasn’t for some hot shooting from Kobe from 3, we may have seen ourselves in a bit of trouble. Some great defence towards the end of the 2nd led to a quick 2 and a 3 on the buzzer from Kobe put us up by 4 points at half time.
The third quarter is where we made our move. Credit to Assistant Coach Eusaint who suggested we start the quarter pressing to bring the required intensity. That decision had an immediate effect on the game, with the boys causing havoc and creating turnovers we found ourselves up by double digits. From there we were able to maintain a double-digit lead for most of the game with a clear improvement on our rebounding (28 for the game) and turnovers (13 for the game), which was great to see after the week before.
Player of the game
It was a tough one this week, all the boys contributed to the win in some way. Special mention goes to Austin who had 12pts 6reb 2 blocks on 62.5%FG and has been such a consistent performer this season. Kian who contributed 5reb to go with 5 steals and was creating havoc everywhere. However this week I have decided to go with Kobe, he finished the game with 12pts 3reb 3 assists and 0 turnovers on 66.7%FG from the 3-pont line. Kobe works hard both ways and was instrumental in us keeping up with East Perth in the 1st half providing a steadying influence on the team. To also have 0 turnovers when having ball handling duties was impressive.
U14 Boys Blue
Sponsored by: SW Hart & Co
Coach: Sebastian Irving
Won against Hills Raiders (100 – 39)
Coaches notes
The boys had a quieter first half, but rallied together to reach the 100 mark for the first time this season. One of the best quarters in the 4th that we’ve seen from them this season. Points galore for our bigs this week who have now started to get comfortable and are clicking with the guards.
Player of the game
Player of the round is Lucas Jones. Incredibly efficient as always, scoring 19 points and grabbing tones of rebounds on both ends. Making great plays for his team mates with really good defence. Shout outs to our other 2 bigs Issac and James. Issac with 29 points and a tone of steals, James with another great 20 point game.
U16 Girls Black
Sponsored by: Njamal People’s Trust
Coach: Ricardo Batista
Loss against Southwest Slammers (60 – 76)
Coaches notes
I couldn’t be prouder of our girls, who truly competed throughout all four quarters. Small lapses of concentration cost us in this game, but we trialed a new defensive set that worked really well. The commitment from the girls was impressive, and we forced the Slammers into a lot of uncomfortable shots, which was pleasing to see.
However, we gave away too many offensive rebounds and had a few too many unforced turnovers. Despite losing the rebound count by just one (for the second week in a row) it’s encouraging that we’re trending in the right direction. In any game, giving the opposition 10 to 15 more shots (off offensive rebound and turnovers) than we take makes winning difficult. Olivia had a standout performance with a season-high nine assists, while Charlotte was excellent in rebounding and actively hunting for contests. I also want to highlight Ella, who keeps putting in tremendous effort for our team. Her rebounding and rim running have made her a wonderful addition and a valuable weapon since the state championships.
Player of the game
This week Holly Marsh was back to her best.
As a coaching crew, we’ve never doubt her, but she tends to be hard on herself. This week, Holly put everything we’ve worked on in training into action, significantly reducing her turnovers. She finished the game with 28 points, 19 rebounds, 4 steals, 2 assists, and a block—an absolutely tremendous stat line. Well done, Holly!
Holly Marsh led the team like a beast
Striking fear into people when they play against the East
Driving lanes, dropping dimes and getting on the boards
She’s so much more than the 28 pts scored
She’ll lock you up while smiling and loves to swing the rock
The WABL rap’s for you… I love your work Brock
U16 Girls Orange
Sponsored by: SG Enviro
Coach: Daniel Heyman
Won against Perth Redbacks (74 – 53)
Coaches notes
In another impressive showing, the girls stepped it up in dominant fashion snuffing a surging Redbacks team. Our Suns started strong, jumping out to a 14 – 7 lead halfway through the first period. Though by the end of the first quarter the Redbacks matched us 16 -16, clawing back with a 9 – 2 point run. The talk at quarter time was about valuing possessions. Turnovers and rebounds let the opposition back in. Something had to change. In the second quarter our Suns responded with their trademark trapping defence and started taking care of the ball. The girls hit back winning the quarter by 11 points, entering the half with a solid advantage.
From there on out it was a case of effort and execution. The defensive pressure remained intense, and our offensive execution was outstanding. It was pleasing to see the team come together and play as a unit. Their off-court chemistry is translating to on-court synergy. Our 6th player on court is our amazing cheering from the bench. It’s been a huge factor in our recent ascendance. With the win we solidified our spot atop the ladder. We need to maintain our flow state as we take on the Senators this coming week. They remain a tough out and are the only team we’re yet to notch a win against.
Player of the game
Keiyanah Williamson. Dominating at both ends, Keiyanah played her best game of the season. Keiyanah’s predatory aggression in the hunt for the ball was key to countless steals and rebounds. She also made her mark on offense, displaying impressive athleticism and skill, slashing through the key for repeated scoring opportunities. Keiyanah showcased her potential, sending an ominous signal to the rest of the competition that she’s a force to be reckoned with! Amazing effort, Keiyanah!
U16 Girls White
Sponsored by: First Generation
Coach: Rae D’Sylva
Loss against Mandurah Magic (68 – 77)
Coaches notes
This week we had a really great comeback being down almost 10 points to get it back to 1 point but unfortunately we went down by 9 towards the end but the effort on defence was incredible to put us in a position to win.
Player of the game
Jenniquah Shardforth Cox. Jenniquah was incredible in defence and offence and her work rate was relentless throughout the game.
U16 Girls Blue
Sponsored by: Lamp Accounting
Coach: John Shea
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (37 – 44)
Coaches notes
A tough closely fought contest going down to a a much improved Joondalup team. Going into the game with 3 players out sick was not the ideal start, but the team played really well throughout the game and keep themselves in the contest. Earlier in the game Joondalup used their tall players well to gain an advantage which we found hard to counter. As the game progressed we were able get on a scoring run and closed to within 5 points but ultimately going down by 7. Such a great effort by the team.
Player of the game
Kirsten was the player of the round. She top scored with 15 points. Great effort Kirsten. Also special mention to Lucy who played very well against a very tall player. A special mention to Jaelyn who was a very unselfish player who was constantly passing the ball to her team mates.
U16 Boys Black
Coach: Bruno Kongawoin
Loss against Mandurah Magic (77 – 96)
Coaches notes
This week, we suffered our fourth consecutive loss, falling to Mandurah Magic in a game that slipped through our fingers; one we firmly believed was ours for the taking. We executed our game plan well in the opening half, showing discipline and composure. By halftime, the scoreboard was tied, and we recorded our best shooting performance of the season with 59% from inside the arc and an impressive 60% from three.
However, the tide shifted in the second half. Our trademark pressure defense led to early foul trouble, with three players fouling out and three more carrying four fouls. This disrupted our rhythm and rotations, allowing Mandurah to take control in the final quarter and seal the win. Tadiwa Kukodzi led our scoring with 21 points on efficient shooting. He was supported by Raymond Tafira (14 points, 5 rebounds) and the consistent Ryker Phillips (13 points, 7 boards). Amani Kongawoin added 4 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 blocks.
We now look ahead to a tough road matchup against the Senators. Our focus: play smart, stay disciplined, and execute for 40 minutes. Time to reset, regroup, and rise.
Player of the game
This week’s Player of the Round goes to Tadiwa Kukodzi. Tadi’s hard-nosed approach to the game is something that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet but it never goes unnoticed. His relentless effort, fearless attitude, and willingness to battle against bigger and taller opponents in the paint speaks volumes. His ability to disrupt, contest, and challenge plays at both ends of the court is invaluable. Well done, Tadi. Keep pushing, keep battling, and stay committed to the process.
U16 Boys Orange
Sponsored: #RISETOGETHER
Coach: Chris Clyne
Loss against Warwick Senators (81 – 83)
Coaches notes
It took a 3pt shot right on the final buzzer to separate us and Warwick, unfortunately we were on the wrong end of the result. It was a close game throughout with both teams managing to get on scoring runs and seize the momentum. When we were able to get the ball moving in transition and through hands in the half court, our offence was tough to guard and got us numerous good looks. However it just wasn’t meant to be our night, however no doubt we’ll be amongst things at the pointy end of the season.
Player of the game
Leyton Rooke – Several players stepped up with a couple of key bigs in early foul trouble, however Leyton’s class shown through. His ability to score from the perimeter, combined with his ability to get to and finish around the rim make him a tough prospect to guard.
U16 Boys White
Coach: Derek Quayle
Loss against Rockingham Flames (62 – 70)
Coaches notes
After getting off to a good start and leading 20-14 at the end of the first quarter, Rockingham changed up to a zone defense. This was the first time that a team has used this against us. We have trained for it but not a lot, as every other team has only used man-to-man defense. We took a little while to adjust to that, but once we found our rhythm, we began to adapt. While our defensive rotations could have been sharper in the 2nd and 3rd quarters, the team showed great resilience and determination. We rallied in the fourth quarter to cut the lead from 18 points down to just 8.
Player of the game
Thomas Wakeman gets this weeks player of the round for his efforts in the fourth quarter. His defensive effort and numerous steals were a huge part in our 10 point turnaround. Ronron was our top scorer with 12 while also putting up a strong defensive effort. Ben battled hard all day for 10 while Tom scored 9.
U16 Boys Blue
Sponsored by: GJ Demo Pty Ltd
Coach: Joel Warner
Loss against Mandurah Magic (65 – 73)
Coaches notes
On Sunday, we butted heads with Mandurah Gold, a unique match-up for us, being the first team, we could stretch out across the court (offensively) & force some mismatches (defensively). Our sides were vastly different, so the way we attacked & defended was likely foreign to the opposition. Patches of excellence from Suns Blue were on display & I credit the Team with non-stop positivity, despite the adversity. Mandurah had three big players we couldn’t stop, and no matter how we approached things, offensive rebounds & second-chance opportunities won the day. On the positive side, it was great to get Noah back into the rotation after a month off with injury. Our team defense was effective & what we lacked in size, we countered with sheer effort & smart positioning. Ultimately, we mixed up strategies to generate offensive momentum, as scoring was tough against the tall Mandurah outfit. We rolled the dice with full-court presses & quick shooting—a high-risk, high-reward strategy, ultimately, Coach James & I were prepared to gamble to narrow the margin. Some strategies worked well, while others were less effective, but the players were courageous & have banked another week of learning the intricacies of the game under pressure.
Player of the game
It’s no secret that we are a small Team, but we are tough! Our season so far has asked a lot of the guards, who are all contributors in different ways. We are often running with guard heavy groups because of the ball pressure we need to manage. One of our best guards in that scenario is Atticus, who this week received a lot of physical attention. I am pleased with Atticus’ scoring, defence & ability to set the table for Team-mates – all great qualities; but he wins player of the week for his determination & for not backing down one bit! When the little guys show some heart, everyone gets on board. Way to lead from the front Atticus, Coach James & I notice the small things – a great game!
U18 Girls Black
Sponsored by: Bambii B
Coach: Zac Belton
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (34 – 101)
U18 Girls Orange
Sponsored by: Parker Crofts & Co
Coach: Simon Calvert
Loss against Warwick Senators (65 – 86)
Coaches notes
This week we focused on rebounding and reducing turnovers – key areas that hurt us last time against Warwick, and the girls responded with one of their best performances of the season. A slow start proved costly, with Warwick doubling our first-quarter score to lead by 16 at the break. We steadied in the second quarter, playing them nearly even and going into halftime down by 17. Warwick pushed the margin to 25 in the second half, but the girls showed great resilience, fighting back to cut it to 13 during the fourth. Although Warwick hit some key threes to regain control, we were proud to win the final quarter.
Despite the loss, the girls showed real growth this week, and if we can bring that intensity across a full game, we’ll be in a strong position moving forward. It was great to see their training efforts translate into competitive basketball. We’re excited for next week and hopeful to have a full squad available for the first time since early in the season.
Player of the game
Jess Prior is our well-deserved player of the round. She set the tone for us throughout the game with a standout performance – dominating the boards, playing tough defence, and hitting key shots, including two of her trademark threes. Jess is a team-first player, always listening, adapting, and doing whatever’s needed to help the group. Her recent form has been impressive, and we’re thrilled to have her as part of the team. Keep it up, Jess!
U18 Boys Black
Sponsored by: Auto One Kalamunda
Coaches: Brock & Dyson Lowe
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (71 – 98)
U18 Boys Orange
Sponsored: #RISINGSUNS
Coach: Ron Flores
Loss against Warwick Senators (64 – 67)
Coaches notes
We opened with one of their best quarters of the season, building a 27–4 lead in the first, through dominant defense, transition scoring, and consistent ball and player movement. However, across the remaining three quarters, we went away from the scout and what was working and the Senators steadily chipped away, ultimately outscoring us 63–37.
A mix of Senators’ perimeter shooting, second-chance opportunities, and late-game composure at the free-throw line turned the game in the final minute, and we couldn’t reel back the momentum.
An valiant effort from the team given they were up against the undefeated team in the grade and down 2 injured players, but definitely another opportunity we can learn from and build on.
Player of the game
Honorable mentions:
Riley Bolton: Made some huge defensive plays for us across the game, we will never die wondering if this guy will give us effort. Joshua Mahama: Each week we ask a lot of Josh, he takes the other teams best players each week & does what’s required to the best of his abilities, at times he has to sacrifice other parts of his game to achieve that and he does it selflessly each week.
But this weeks player of the game goes to Tait Dalton, he had his colours lowered last week, and spent a week reviewing film and understanding what his strengths are and how he can be value add to the team, was very instrumental early in setting the tone for us.
U18 Boys White
Coach: Rob Rees
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (82 – 85)
U18 Boys Blue
Sponsored by: QDC
Coach: Doug Bainbridge
Won against Mandurah Magic (63 – 62)
Coaches notes
Fantastic first half, team were very disciplined and we completely shut down the ladder leaders offence forcing turnover after turnover. We took a solid 12 point lead into half time with some very efficient shooting going at 68% from the field. We also only allowed 4 offensive boards which has been an area of focus for us over the past few weeks.
Mandurah showed us why they were top team in the second half. We were a step late defensively and didn’t close out – they hit six threes for the quarter. We were able to keep the scoreboard ticking over and were up 5 at the final break. Huge last quarter with a couple of lead changes and we were all tied up with 44 seconds to go. We hit a FT to go ahead (missed 2) and then stole the ball – sideline timeout with 11 seconds left. Got the ball in and were fouled, missed both FT, sideline again. Got the ball in and held out for the buzzer. Refs put 1 sec back on and Magic ran a great play that almost got them the win. Great resilience and late clock management in a nail biting finish!!!
Player of the game
Really tough to award this week – there are so many contributors on this team. Val had a clutch last quarter defensively and Hudson was diving on any loose ball to back up his usual high calibre defensive game.
Player of the week this week is Lucas Aird – Lucas went for 15 points on 60% shooting but more importantly his hustle on defence and active hands blew up plenty of plays. His aggressiveness and physicality was a barometer for the team and he was cool as ice inbounding the ball on 4 consecutive SLOB plays to finish the game
U20 Boys Black
Sponsored by: CSI Mining Services
Coach: Bailey Ferguson
Loss against Mandurah Magic (58 – 59)
U20 Boys Orange
Sponsored by: ComWiz Computers
Coach: Rae D’Sylva
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (56 – 102)
Coaches notes
It was a tough game for us this week where we looked out of sync but there were a few players that played tough throughout the game .
Player of the game
Jayden McClure. Jayden was someone who gave 110 percent this week where he was incredible on defence with a few big blocks and contested everything.
U21 Girls Black
Sponsored by: Stott Hoare
Coach: Charlie Smart
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (79 – 82)
Coaches notes
Grit Growth and a whole lot of heart. The team set the tone early, charging ahead in the first quarter, before Cockburn responded. A few lapses in concentration saw us trailing by 14 with just 3min left in the 2nd. A reset and burst of energy, especially defensively from Lisa, Charlie and Elleanne, the girls rallied to close the half 43-44. Third quarters have been our Achilles’ heel, and again, started slow with Cockburn taking full advantage extending their lead 18. But not once did our girls drop their heads. The bench energy and on court communication was fantastic.
We made adjustments defensively, switching things up, Jorja, Emily and Amber dominating the boards. Offensively, we stayed calm and composed with Grace and Casey pairing strongly. The team fought back hard, with Cockburn scrambling to answer. A huge 3 from Skye put us up by one with a min to go. Cockburn responding with a shot from deep and secured a last-second foul. This game proved to the team what they are truly capable of and the positive direction they are heading. They played for each other and left everything out there. We’re building something special and as coach, I couldn’t be prouder.
Player of the game
Skye again saw some huge numbers and if stats were measured in U21 would’ve secured the double double. However, player of round goes to Elleanne. Her defensive pressure and on court presence was second to none.
Well done to all teams and we look forward to round 9!