Weekly WABL Wrap – Round 10 – 29 June 2025

The Weekly WABL Wrap is proudly sponsored by Woods Insurance Brokers. 

Here’s the Round 10 wrap-up of how all our teams went, including comments from coaches:

12-1 Girls – Kelly Webb (sponsored by CPR Electrical)

Lost against Slammers 71-13

Coach comments

• The opposing team outdid us in rebounding and was better at stealing our passes, resulting in turnovers on our end.
• Lillian, Cairee, Charlee, and Mina did an amazing job bringing the ball up.
• Shay, Lily, Evie and Madi outdid themselves on the game! Amazing efforts.
• Eireann’s composure is such an asset to the team.

12-2 Girls – Charlize Nicolaou (sponsored by Mount Hawthorn Clinical Psychology)

Lost against Senators 23-45

Coach comments

• Our team faced a challenging task in an unexpected 23–45 outcome that didn’t align with the preparation and talent we brought to the match. While the result was disappointing, it also pointed to areas where we can improve, especially in terms of consistency and performance under pressure. All eight players on Sunday still had memorable moments, and the team was dedicated throughout. This game is a reminder that every game is a chance to improve, and our goal is to refocus and return better!!
• Millie was an absolute legend on Sunday, with everyone being able to hear her on court. It was amazing to see the difference her loud voice brought to the game. She also defended like a boss.
• Zoe was a beast as usual, forcing opposition turnovers more times than I can count, with Millie helping out not only on the defensive side but also on the offensive side of the court.
• Anya & Claire were a pair to be reckoned with. These two not only brought us a strong defensive line but also were a force that couldn’t be stopped when they took the ball up the court!!!

12-3 Girls – Paul Philpott

Won against Hills Raiders 33-20

Coach comments

• Another superb performance from our Redback girls. Today, we challenged the Hills Raiders from the tip-off, inviting pressure and embracing it. As they say: “No pressure, no diamonds!” We maintained our lead quarter to quarter, not allowing the Hills Raiders to come within reach, despite their attempts to drift players back. We quickly pressed up and foiled their scoring attempts.
• Our prime scorers today were Hazel McElvenny with 8 points, Ava Socratous with 6 points, Jessica Ryan also with 6 points and Jean Grayson finding her place with 4 points on the board.
• Both Elsa Callister and River Sikora dominated in their defence today, showing that quick feet and shadowing hands produce great results.

12-4 Girls – Dave Power

Won against Lakeside 37-11

Coach comments

• This game was the most consistent we have been across all 4 quarters. We had a lot of really good shot attempts and scores, executing off our inbounds plays.
• Defensively, we were aggressive, rotated to help and helped the helper really well. We were able to control each quarter of the game.
• Niyala Sakala’s effort on defence getting steals and deflections, passing, plus dominating rebounds on both ends allowed our guards to defend on ball and everyone more room to play.
• Emily Sundstrom had a unique game, playing really good defence, trying to contain her match up. All 5 fouls were from chest blows with good positioning. Underrated skill to get in front like that, great effort!
• Ella Jones top scored with 18, being aggressive attacking the basket and has started to develop a quick shot release from mid range.

12-1 Boys – Craig Dropulich (sponsored by Profusion Planning)

Won against Mandurah Magic 69-50

Coach comments

• We travelled down to Mandurah this week to play a much-improved Magic team. We also only had 7 players for this game. So, with a different rotation, we took a little while to get going. Trailing at quarter time by 4, we hit our rhythm in the second and turned to lead by 8 at the half. It was one of our best quarters of the season as everyone got involved passing, working hard on transition and defending hard. From there, Magic had little fight backs to begin the last two quarters, but we finished both quarters on a run, eventually putting them away by 19.
• Lance Dela Vega realised the offensive threat he can be by cutting through traffic with the ball in hand. He does all the things a coach loves: boxing out, closing out and defensive transition. He is one of our best at driving to the basket, and now his finishing has improved. 17 points in this game.
• Levi McKibbin had a good game and worked on different positioning on the court to aid his movement and attack on the basket. He is listening and acting on what is required from him during the game. It’s great to see him do new and different things on the court. It shows he has great ability to improve.

12-2 Boys – Dom Pitchen (sponsored by Candy Verse)

Lost against Rockingham Flames 35-89

Coach comments

• The first quarter saw a sluggish start, but the boys kept up and matched the energy. In the next two quarters, our offense was very stationary and lacked movement. Our defensive energy was good but we were reaching alot which led to lots of blow-bys and fouls, and allowed Rockingham to run away with the game. In the back end of the fourth quarter, the boys started to pick up again, moving the ball fast and making strong cuts. Defensively, they left their hands up and took chest blows.
• Thomas Stephenson was a strong presence on both ends of the court for us, playing strong defence to force stops and turn away shots and make strong drives on the offensive end to try and create opportunities for the team. Good job, Tommy.
• Santiago Cortes was a big defensive presence, doing well to take chest blows and stay in front of his player. Offensively, he tried to create options for the team and moved the ball well. Well done, Santi.
• Both of these players did very well to stay calm and collected in a very emotionally charged game for most of the team.

12-3 Boys – Wayne Dropulich (sponsored by Axis Mineral Service)

Lost against Mandurah Magic 66-77

Coach comments

• This was a tough, high-paced contest where our group showed patches of excellent basketball but ultimately couldn’t overcome the momentum swings and physicality brought by Mandurah Magic.
• We started a bit flat offensively, managing just a single point through the opening minutes. Mandurah capitalised on our slow start with a 6–0 run, and although we began to find our rhythm midway through the first quarter, thanks to scores by Miles Southwell and Cole Jones, we trailed 14–10 at quarter time.
• The second quarter was one of our best offensively. We fought back to level the scores at 14–14 behind quick buckets from Cayden Wedge and Miles. However, Mandurah responded with a scoring surge of their own, pushing out to an 8-point lead before we steadied. Hudson McClintock gave us great energy with two important baskets, and Cayden kept the scoreboard ticking over with aggressive drives and consistent foul shooting. We clawed our way back to trail 32–27 at the half, showing good composure under pressure.
• The third quarter was where we struggled most. Mandurah went on a 10–2 run to build a double-digit lead. Despite a valiant effort from Hudson and Miles to chip away, we couldn’t match their scoring bursts and trailed 54–44 going into the final period.
• The fourth quarter showcased the heart and hustle of our team. Down by 13 early, we sparked a thrilling run, sparked by buckets from Louis Griffiths, Cole, and Cayde to bring the margin down to just 5 points at 63–58. However, Mandurah responded again with back-to-back baskets, and despite continued efforts from Hudson and Cayden, we couldn’t close the gap as they finished strong to seal a 77–66 win.
• Hudson McClintock was outstanding in this match, leading all scorers with 21 points at a solid 53% shooting. He consistently found ways to create scoring opportunities by attacking the rim. Despite facing relentless and physical defence throughout the game, Hudson remained composed and determined, refusing to be rattled. He also made a big impact on the glass, collecting 10 rebounds and helping control the tempo with strong defensive efforts and second-chance plays. Hudson’s ability to maintain focus under pressure and play through contact was a standout feature of his performance. A gutsy, high-impact game from a player who continues to step up when it matters most.
• Miles Southwell delivered a gritty and determined performance, finishing with 16 points at an efficient 61% from the field. He was a reliable offensive option throughout the game, utilising his strength and footwork to score consistently around the basket. On the boards, Miles was a force, pulling down 8 rebounds and giving us second-chance opportunities when we needed them most. What stood out even more was his resilience, despite picking up a leg injury during the game, Miles battled on, pushing through discomfort and continuing to compete at a high level. His toughness and commitment to the team were evident in every possession. A strong, courageous showing that set the tone for his teammates.

12-4 Boys – Mason Wigmore (sponsored by Sushi Wawa)

Lost against Hills Raiders Green 28-80

Coach comments

• A tough game up the road with only 7 available players. To save legs, we adapted to a much slower offensive style in the first half, which provided a sharp learning curve for us. However, the team gained confidence as the game progressed, scoring more points in each quarter.
• Rion Carter’s ability to get downhill in the second half was helpful. After a timid first half, he helped us with some drives that opened up the floor.
• Bradley Vinac’s on-court leadership was big, as he led the team and helped to organise us in transition and half-court offense.
• Otis Tierney had a good game, providing good effort defensively and easily getting to the paint offensively and making impressive decisions out of his drives.

14-1 Girls – Helen Pardini (sponsored by Ferguson Corporation)

Won against Willetton White 56-33

Coach comments

• After a challenging few weeks, the girls were determined to bounce back and get back on the winners’ list. We spoke during the week about the importance of training with the same intensity and focus that we want to bring to games and the team responded. Their commitment at training set the tone for the weekend, and it showed on the court.
• From the start, the girls looked sharp. They executed our offensive structures with precision, and our ball movement in transition was outstanding.
• Whilst we entered halftime with a 10-point lead, it felt like Willetton were still within striking distance. At the break, we challenged the team to lift defensively, particularly in the paint. They responded brilliantly, locking down Willetton and holding them to just 2 points for the third quarter – an outstanding defensive effort.
• Throughout the game, the girls demonstrated excellent teamwork, moving the ball with purpose and intent, and creating great opportunities through unselfish team play. A great team win built on effort, discipline, and trust.
• Mia Exeter continued her outstanding form with another dominant performance on both ends of the floor. She was a driving force in transition, relentless on defence, and finished with a well-earned double-double: 21 points, 13 rebounds, 7 steals, and 1 block.
• Siena Mouttet was once again a defensive anchor and had one of her best offensive games to date. She read the defence well, got into great positions, and finished with control. Her efforts earned her a double-double of 15 points, 11 rebounds, along with 3 assists and 4 blocks.
• Molly Nicholas responded excellently to feedback from the previous game. She was composed and smart with the ball, facilitating the offence with 6 assists, and brought her trademark energy on defence, finishing with 7 steals and 6 rebounds.
• Isabel Nesa and Darcey Hill made valuable contributions during their time on court, hustling hard on defence and making smart plays on offence. Issey chipped in with some strong finishes and a great assist, while Darcey added a solid bucket and two excellent assists.

14-2 Girls – Reid Ballantine (sponsored by Access Hire)

Won against Warwick 53-41

Coach comments

• Once again, a vast improvement and a 33-point swing from when we lost to Warrick in round 3. While we remain the underdog team with nothing to lose, on the whole, we were the better team today from start to finish. It was great to play four consistent quarters.
• Defensively, we worked hard to keep the ball out of their playmakers’ hands and everyone put a lot more pressure on the ball, generating a big bag of steals. We also had great focus to double-team their drives, forcing them to fumble.
• Offence was very fast and free-flowing (albeit with a high turnover rate). However, on the whole, we did well to attack early without overcomplicating it and found open players quickly. Of the 21 made shots, 18 were off assists, and every player on the team had an assist.
• Alyssa Rullo enjoyed the great passes and fired all day, draining 29 points (she was a sharp shooter today at 74%FG), and grabbing 9 rebounds. Equally pivotal was her big defensive assignment to contain the Senators’ weapon player which was key to unlocking the game. It all came together nicely today for Alyssa 🙂
• Isla Cowman and Winnie Devitt were equally strong tag-teaming the same player in defence and Winnie played another high-impact game, annoying Warwick once again with 5 steals.
• Jana Djurasovic slowed Warwick down with 11 Rebounds and 4 Blocks.
• Lily Butler had one of her best games this year with a strong presence in the paint and hustle for rebounds. She put great pressure on the ball, instinctively double-teaming with good timing.

14-3 Girls – Rori Roberts (sponsored by National Geotech)

Won against Cockburn 42-30

Coach comments

• We had an early start, but the girls got off to a hot start, getting out ahead by 10, and from there, we were able to control the game.
• Cockburn made a run at us, getting within 4, but the girls held their own and pulled away with a 12-point win.
• Rose Bacci was key at the top of the press, working hard on every defensive play and playing her role amazingly.
• Rachel Deering stepped up defensively when I asked. She led from the front, able to get multiple steals.

14-4 Girls – Lucy Dowling (sponsored by Gobsmacked Mouthguards)

Lost against Willetton Tigers 23-66

Coach comments

• Despite the score, today was one of our better games.
• We made more passes up the court in transition instead of dribbling, and when we did it quickly, we got good fast breaks.
• We did better to get into good spots for rebounds, and continue to work on our physicality.
• Eloise Watts fought hard for rebounds, getting knocked around by many taller opponents. Eloise has lots of determination and can always be counted on to give 100%.
• Madeleine Marshall showed great resilience all game, pushing through hard fouls and lots of contact. Every week, Madi continues to make us proud by crashing the boards and racking up rebounds.
• Zara Flynn did fantastically as usual, boxing out anyone and everyone from the keyway. Zara has gone from one of our quieter leaders to being a voice everyone looks for on the court. At both trainings and games, Zara is always positive, and supporting her team mates.

14-1 Boys – Adam Gunnis (sponsored by Paragon Corporate Training)

Lost against Lakeside Lightning 63-71

Coach comments

• This weekend saw a much-improved four-quarter performance from the group, highlighted by winning the second half and holding a strong Lakeside team—currently preparing for the U14 Club Championships—to just 8 points in the second quarter.
• We’ve shown in patches that when we’re relentless with our ball pressure, particularly through consistent hand-tracing, and have home covered with the weak-side defender guarding two, we can disrupt the opposition’s flow and force rushed decisions.
• Our focus over the coming weeks will be on reducing offensive lapses and extending our ability to apply disciplined, high-pressure defence for longer periods. We’ve taken a positive step forward—now it’s about building consistency across the full game.

14-2 Boys – Mitch Jesson (sponsored by E&M Electrical)

Lost against Warwick Senators 64-70

Coach comments

• It was an interesting game.
• Last time we played Senators their press just showed us how much work we had to do. Even though we lost the game by 6, it was another nail-biter – we did manage to have one of our lowest turnover counts and actually had less than our opponents.
• The game was a great highlight of why parents and supporters should cheer on their teams and not approach officials (there was a minor incident involving an opposition parent). I’m very proud of how all parties (Warwick, Officials & Redbacks) put the game of basketball first and we had a great game in good spirits.
• I know I will remember the game for Ted Jarlett’s double/double and Jayden Austin’s tenacious defence. Also I don’t think it is a bad thing for all of us to remember that basketball is a community that we are privileged to be part of.
• Leo Burton’s stats were 4 points, 5 boards, 2 assists & 2 steals and this would indicate a solid game. Watching the game however, there are rebounds and then there are ‘how did he get to that rebounds?’. It was a really good all round game, solid defence, great rebounding and hats off to Leo for continuing to develop is all round game at both ends.
• Kruz Viesca is establishing himself as one of the best point guards in the league. His pace with the ball, work rate and unselfishness is wonderful (team high +/-). Other teams at the moment just can’t stop him, his 10 points came at 50%. We’re being hard on Kruz to believe in himself as much as we do.
• Scott Samuel provided 10 points @ 63%, however he is really thriving as our swing man and embracing it. Just such a hard match up for opponents – he can shoot a jump shot, drive or drop off. Come finals – Scott is going to be a weapon if he can keep his improvement going.

14-3 Boys – Dave Ogden (sponsored by Balance My Books)

Won against Joondalup Wolves 4 58-44

Coach comments

• We beat the 3rd-place Wolves at home in our best win of the season. The boys were on top for most of the game.
• We had a season-low 12 turnovers, won the offensive board count, and defended aggressively throughout the game, making up for a poor performance from our last matchup.
• Maz Tepania was the standout for me. He had a season-high 14 points and, more importantly, had a season-high 7 boards and gave us poise when on the ball.
• Noah Ouwendyk continued a purple patch with 15 points and 4 O boards.
• Talin McCullough had a strong game and led the team with 4 steals and committed defence all game. He also got himself a couple of buckets going the other way.
• A good overall game for us, and we are building at the right time of the season.

14-4 Boys – Ethan Saliacus (sponsored by Meritus Legal)

BYE

16-1 Girls – Nigel Esau (sponsored by F45 Vic Park)

Won against Hills Raiders 98-58

Coach comments

• Given the early start, the girls took about a quarter to get going. Once their defensive intensity got better, the game flowed in their favour. We played well enough to win, but our offensive discipline needs to continue improving.
• Lottie Ballantine had a great game and was our biggest difference maker.
• Coming off her injury, it was good to see Ella Welsh gain her confidence and score the ball more.

16-2 Girls – Simon Daff (sponsored by West Coast Reinforcing)

Won against Willeton Tigers White 56-37

Coach comments

• After losing to this team the first time we played them, it was so great to see how the girls responded today. We dominated the first quarter to be up by double digits. Our defence and ball pressure were the best we’ve had all year. The girls really trusted each other. We held the lead for the entire game – when they made a run, we always found a way to steady.
• Ellie Pike had her best offensive game this year and was rewarded with 17 points. She really set up our first quarter with her intensity and it gave confidence to the other girls.
• Macaela Tugwell played with such composure and really made good decisions today. She dominated the boards in the first quarter and made some great passes to get our fast break going early.

16-3 Girls – Dahney Chamberlain (sponsored by Total Digital)

Won against Perry Lakes 60-51

16-4 Girls – Caitlin Rawes (sponsored by NewSmile Dental Centre)

Lost against Warwick 73-75

Coach comments

• The girls killed it this game. The improvement from the first game against the Senators to this one was massive. Nail-biter of a game with a huge crowd watching towards the end. We matched the gameplay of senators who were bigger and the girls did exactly what we wanted.
• Maia Leckey stepped up again when we had a key player sitting out this week.
• Emily Flynn is stepping up more and more each week and becoming a leader on the court

16-1 Boys – Francis Crawshaw (sponsored by Pivot Project Consulting)

Lost against East Perth Eagles 69-112

Coach comments

• Another hard loss against an aggressive East Perth team. They got a lot of confidence early. We actually got a lot of really good looks in our offense, but the shots just didn’t drop.
• Defensively we struggled in transition again, knowing that’s the type of game East Perth plays.
• Riley Barmentloo, James Galvin and Nate Cass were our top scorers with 17, 13 and 11

16-2 Boys – Dave Power (sponsored by F45 Vic Park)

Won against Perry Lakes 2 73-59

Coach comments

• For the first 3 quarters of the game, we defended well in the half court however, we had to continue adjusting as every time we had an answer defensively, Perry Lakes came out with a counter.
• Down 10 at the end of the 3rd, in the huddle, we discussed our defensive adjustments and avoiding blowouts in the front court.
• We locked in and were able to get stops, some early run outs and executed well in the half court, finding open shooters and lane drives.
• Finishing the 4th with a 32-8 quarter was our highest efficiency this season.
• Isaac Fode was there whenever we needed a basket to keep within reach, hitting some big shots and getting timely runouts to score. It was fitting the Captain sealed this win with a 3 on the buzzer.
• Toby Schultz and Tace Rankin had solid games on both sides of the ball, played with poise, getting to the basket and finding teammates with good passes.
• Erik Davies made 8 out of his 12 in the 4th, stretching the floor, hitting long mid-range shots off the catch and rebounding weakside. This allowed our cutters and drivers a lot more room to move in the paint.

16-3 Boys – Ash Brian (sponsored by Cogito Psychology)

Lost against Willetton 78-67

Coach comments

• This was a disappointing result after securing top spot on the ladder last week. Our shots just weren’t falling, while the opposition seemed to hit even the toughest looks. At times, we trailed by as much as 16, which really disrupted our rhythm and composure on offense. We managed to claw it back to six points in the fourth, but couldn’t bridge the gap, eventually going down by 11 at the buzzer.
• As we head into the business end of the season, teams are locking in on our key scorers — so it was great to see Christian Cvitan, one of our most consistent offensive threats, deliver yet again. He finished with a dominant 23 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 2 deflections and a block.
• Toby Deshon has been our steady presence in recent weeks — quietly going about his work with reliable defence, minimal turnovers, and solid contributions across the board (8 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 2 deflections and 0 turnovers).
• Kobe-Jackson Peppin was efficient from deep, shooting 50% from three, and chipped in with a needed 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and a deflection.

16-4 Boys – John Revelle (sponsored by Willie Creek Pearls)

Lost against Flames 59-76

Coach comments

• The boys came into Vic Park ready for the second top team on the ladder. The effort and energy were consistent throughout, in spite of the umpires being a bit “whistle happy”, calling a combined 50 fouls on both teams. While this slowed the game down a bit, and we weren’t able to keep up at the free-throw line, the bench energy really lifted the whole vibe and game. We should definitely be encouraged as the boys on the court got their boost from their mates on the bench. It was great to see! In the end, our shooting percentage of 26.5% from the field and missing 15 free throws wasn’t going to get it done against a top team, putting us on the wrong side of a 17-point margin at the final buzzer.
• Jacob Tan and Eoin Foley led the scoring effort with 14 pts and 10 pts respectively. Parker Dunstan stood out with 9 pts, 19 rebounds, 4 steals, 3 deflections, and 1 block.

18-1 Girls – Sam Fox (sponsored by Woods Insurance Brokers)

Lost against Warwick Senators 57-73

Coach comments

• After coming off a win against a top 4 side last week, I challenged the girls to embrace the physicality and expect to be put under pressure by a tidy Senators outfit who are currently sitting third on the ladder and belted us by 80pts last time we played.
• We started the game well, showing our attacking intent early by staying aggressive and getting to the rim.
• We were able to force Senators into some uncharacteristic turnovers at times, which is credit to the work the girls have done on defence in the past month.
• The Senators had some classy (6ft +) bigs who were tough to contain and put us under heaps of pressure on the glass.
• Down 12 going into the second half, we rallied back to cut the deficit to 4, but Senators stayed composed through our flurry of pressure and wrestled momentum back, ultimately keeping us at bay.
• Super proud of the girls’ fight to stay in this game when we got down.
• Although it was a loss on the scoreboard – it felt like we made some huge strides towards getting our identity back and playing the style of hoops we know this group is capable of.
• Hattie Woods continues to be a consistent threat for us beyond the arc. So much so, teams have to adjust how they guard her. Her ability to pile points on in quick succession is often the spark we need to get on a run.
• Grace Almond played a key role for us off the bench and lead us in scoring with 12pts. She’s always willing to ‘roll the sleeves up’ and do the tough stuff for us – holding her own against the Senator’s bigs all game.
• Twins Mafa and Leeshar Tuialii’s presence made a world of difference for us this game. Constantly punishing Senator’s defensive misreads on O and equally getting after it on the defensive end.

18-2 Girls – Geoff Alger (sponsored by The Loan Company)

Won against Wolves White 59-42

Coach comments

• After a low-scoring first quarter where both teams missed opportunities, the game broke open for us in a 25-4 second term where we capitalised efficiently on opposition turnovers. Comprehensive wins on the rebound and turnover count helped set this game up with our ability to play with high energy levels while still making good decisions, improving every week. We were particularly proud of our players’ ability to remain focused and not get distracted by the opposition.
• With our 10 players recording 2, 4, 4, 4, 4, 7, 8, 8, 8 and 10 points this week, the versatility and depth of this group continue to impress.
• Lola Bingwa combined intense defence with nice playmaking and very efficient finishing to have a great all-around game.
• Niamh Murphy was strong on the boards again, particularly at the defensive end and continues to show good passing and shot-making ability.
• Indi Ballantine had a very strong game, impacting the keyway at both ends of the floor, adding more aggression to her offensive game that even served up a highlight stretch finger roll that brought a massive cheer from the bench.
• Salma Rahmadavi barely made a mistake during the game. She committed herself physically to mop up loose rebounds to secure possession for the team, made great decisions with ball in hand and denied many opposition buckets with her effort sprints when Wolves broke through our ball pressure.

18-3 Girls – Marcia Dowling (sponsored by Packaging Perth)

Lost against Mandurah Magic 65-70

Coach comments

• This was one of the most intense and focused games from the girls. They led the scoreboard for much of the game due to better passing, excellent footwork and team speed. Magic had a few runs, but we kept them at bay until the final moments, where we then headed into overtime. With 9 players, the girls gave everything, and both coaches are immensely proud of their efforts.
• Paige Wigmore continues to shine under the basket with vital rebounds and boxing out.
• Charli Foster ran with intensity everywhere, all the time, and her impact was significant in both O and D.
• Charlotte Dillon’s defence kept their guard to minimum success and Mya Slee’s hustle was menacing.

18-1 Boys – Stephen Charlton (sponsored by Cannington Mazda)

Won against Mandurah Magic 102 – 73

Coach comments

• A close game for three quarters, but then the game opened up in the final quarter, which we won 32-12
• Curtis Carroll was excellent again, making 6 threes and playing well overall.
• It was great to have Ben Galvin back on the floor after a month or so out with injury

18-2 Boys – Nick D’Elia (sponsored by EJL Mechanical)

Won against Eagles 81-69

Coach comments

• We started the game strong despite a few early turnovers. Once we figured out how to break their half-court press, we built a small lead and settled in. Due to limited numbers again, we rotated between zone and man defence to protect players in foul trouble. Everyone stepped up.
• Deegan Castle was a force on the interior, playing smart, smothering defence, anchoring the paint.
• Sam Peirce and Ty Demir dominated the boards, with Ty using his size and strength to overpower opponents. Gabe Fode clamped down on their shooter, who started off hot but couldn’t stay in rhythm under Gabe’s pressure.
• Offensively, Hunter Mettam and Jack Ryder came up big—getting buckets when we needed them most.
• We had two young fellas in Arman and Izzy topping us up this week and they were impressive: mistake-free, solid on defence, and even chipped in on the scoreboard.
• We built a commanding lead and played with confidence… until the fourth. Foul trouble hit hard—our forwards fouled out, and we struggled defensively and on the glass. They got desperate, attacked the rim, and made a late push.
• But credit to the squad—despite being undersized, we held firm. We didn’t panic. We finished strong and secured a well-earned win through resilience, composure, and team effort.

18-3 Boys – Dan Cartwright (sponsored by Meyer Shircore Architects)

Lost to Senators 75-93

18-4 Boys – Jess Tiwade (sponsored by Dental Gallery Mt Lawley)

Won against Mandurah Black 88-75

Coach comments

• We were unsure whether we would have a full bench due to injuries and the impact of flu season on the team. Everyone who wasn’t feeling great stepped up, and we gave our best. We took home the win against Mandurah, who were a fast team.
• Big shout-out to injured players for coming down to support.
• We are really proud of our 7 wins with 2 losses in the season so far.
• In the first quarter, we started off with Seb Tiwade getting 3 points, followed by Lockie Abbot scoring to get early momentum. Fouls called on both teams made it a close game at the start, and we were chasing Mandurah. We turned around the first quarter leading 23 to 14. In the second, Mandurah closed in on us 41 to 35. We won the 3rd quarter with Will Bacci and Max Murray as the leading scorers in the quarter. We did find our bigs in foul trouble, working hard on defence. In the fourth quarter, Will Bacci and Lockie Abbot brought strong defence and offence to hold our lead.
• Will Bacci was the leading scorer in this game with 28pts including five 3s. Fantastic seeing his assists, rebounds, deflections and strong defence needed against Mandurah’s top player.
• Lockie Abbott was the other top scorer with 27pts. He played a key role with his vision for passing, and his assists were impressive. Strong defensively against quick Mandurah guards, supported the team’s win.
• Novak and Max work really hard on both ends, in rebounding, defence and post players both adding to the total score.

21-1 Girls – John Care’

Won against Lakeside Lightning 78-63

Coach comments

• The girls started well this week with the first quarter, being very close on both ends of the court. Quarter 2 is where our execution in offence and defensive pressure moved up a gear, and we were able to extend our lead and play out 4 quarters and get the win.
• Tahlia Adams’ defensive pressure this week was outstanding, creating havoc for Lakeside.

20-1 Boys – Andrew Logan (sponsored by IPI Packers)

Won against Hills Raiders 97-68

Coach comments

• It was a cold start to the day up in Mundaring, but the fresh air must have woken the boys up. We came out strong, carrying the momentum from last week. The boys moved the ball well and consistently found the best option on offence, taking the first quarter 22 to 19.
• The second quarter turned into the Max show. He found his range early, knocking down a clean corner three before shifting his focus inside the paint, where he kept the scoreboard ticking. Near the end of the quarter, Hamish found his groove—coming up with some great steals and making the Hills pay by turning defence into quick points. We won the quarter convincingly, 31 to 12.
• The third quarter was another strong team effort, which is always great to see. The ball movement was excellent, finding open players and creating quality scoring chances. We took the quarter 25 to 18.
• The fourth quarter was a little disappointing—we eased off the pressure slightly—but the boys still played unselfish, team-first basketball. It was a solid win over the Hills, with a final score of 97 to 68.
• Hamish Elder was a standout on defence, creating turnovers in the full-court press and finishing strongly at the basket. His hustle was great to watch, and he wrapped up a tidy 21-point game.
• Max Wishart had a day to remember. He made his presence felt both inside and beyond the arc, finishing well around the rim and disrupting rebounds at both ends. He finished with 24 points.
• Cooper Deshon also had a big day, dropping 24 points of his own. At times, he hit the impossible and made it look easy—a great shooting display up in the hills.

20-2 Boys – John Foley

Lost against Hawks 65-90

Coach comments

• We came into the game undermanned but ready to play. The boys took control early, dominating the first two quarters and going into halftime with a solid lead, 55 to 38.
• In the third quarter, the Hawks began to claw their way back into the game, outscoring us 19 to 13.
• We faced a real challenge in the fourth quarter, especially after Alex fouled out at the end of the third. His absence hurt our rebounding, and with only six players to rotate in the fourth, fatigue began to set in.
• Despite this, the boys never gave up. They continued to compete, pushed the pace where they could, and attacked when opportunities arose. It was a gutsy effort from a group that refused to quit.
• Benji finished on 23 points while playing on a sore calf for the whole game.
• James started the game hot and finished with 12 points.
• Ethan had a solid game, finishing with 16 points.
• Thanks so much to Macca for stepping in to coach this game.