Weekly WABL Wrap – Round 16 – 24 August 2025

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

Here’s the Round 16 wrap-up of how all our teams went, including comments from coaches:

12-1 Girls – Adam Gunnis (sponsored by CPR Electrical)

Lost against Cockburn 18-32

Coach comments (Carmie Olowoyo)

• The girls played awesome in this game with excellent contributions in many of the key areas we have been focusing on at practice.
• It was a real team contribution from all players.
• Madelyn and Shay were excellent on defence and rebounding.
• Madison, Cairee and Mina were outstanding in advancing the ball under pressure.
• Charlee and Eireann pulled down multiple offensive rebounds.
• Lily and Evie were able to impact the game with solid decision-making and patience, while Lilli was her usual high-octane self on offence, especially in transition.

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

Lost against Magic 53-26

Coach comments

• Our game was hard fought from start to finish, and each player stepped up and did their part!
• Emily was geared up and ready to go before warm-up commenced. Emily put her heart and soul into her game and is my player of the game!

12-3 Girls – Paul Philpott

Lost against East Perth Blue 17-43

Coach comments

• A tough final game of the regular season for our Reddies, but the scoreboard didn’t define our worth. Each quarter, our wonderful girls continued to bring that personal ‘something’, making East Perth have to work that bit harder.
• Our tall girls shone today, with Jessica Ryan showing some aggression under the rings.
• Hazel McElvenny was quick down court in defence and dropped a few points at the other.
• Daisy Robertson showed her power today, straight out of the gat,e seizing many possessions, allowing her opportunity at our ring.
• Overall, we have had a glossy season, with all our Redback girls showing great development and skill throughout the season. Going into finals next week, we will remember that every game is an opportunity disguised as a challenge and every setback is a setup for a comeback.

12-4 Girls – Dave Power

Won against East Perth 25-19

Coach comments

• This was an exciting game with the teams matching each other for three quarters. Going into the fourth, East Perth was up by 1. We felt like we had good momentum, controlling the flow of the game and having lots of opportunities we thought we could have converted in the first three.
• We did very well rebounding the ball and defending on ball. We were able to win the fourth quarter 10-3 and secure a win in our last regular-season game.
• Ella Jones solidified herself as a top 2 scorer in the league with a 12-point performance, all in the second half, while Narayana Daley played well on both sides of the ball, keeping us in touch in the first half, attacking the basket and making key defensive stops in the second half.

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

Lost against South West Slammers 55-57

Coach comments

• Second drive to Bunbury for the year, and the game was as close and exciting as our first time down. Unfortunately, we were on the end of a 2-point loss to second in the division. The game was quite balanced for most of the game, neither team getting up by more than a single digit as the game see-sawed back and forth and coaching became a big part of the game. We held a big part of our game back so as not to show them our hand if it comes to the semi-final, and we missed a crucial player who would’ve made a significant impact. In the end, the more aggressive team got the win.
• Levi Mckibbin brought the intensity the whole game and defended well. His decision-making with the ball was excellent in his decisions of when to pass and drive to the bucket, rarely giving up the ball to the opposition.
• Alex Litas had another solid performance on the court, stepping out there to put heavy pressure down and ended up drawing a charge for his effort. Defensively he was fantastic, using his body, showing his hands and busting his gut to stay in front of the ball.
• I would also like to congratulate Elijah Devitt on playing his 50th WABL game for Perth Redbacks. He’s been a consistent team player and a wonderful kid to have coached for all his 50 games.

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

Lost against Lakeside White 36-59

Coach comments

• The boys started the game well, spacing the floor and finding shooters. They did well to try to maintain composure and play their game when the calls were not going their way. The communication during the game was a significant improvement, and the boys should look to build on that. Well done boys.
• Santiago Cortes brought high energy and constant effort on both ends, setting an example to the other boys of the mentality and effort they should bring into the game. Santi did well defensively to try to communicate and stay in front of his man with high pressure. Offensively, he did well to scan the floor and make the best pass on decision available. Great job, Santi.
• Max Williams was a strong presence on the defensive end. His help defence stopped a lot of easy shots at the basket. His ability to use his size and strength set the tone for the boys on how they should be moving around in the paint. Offensively, his ability to see the floor created opportunities for the boys and allowed the team to play at a controlled tempo. Well done, Max.

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

Won against Lakeside 77-46

Coach comments

• This was one of our most complete team performances of the season, and I’m really proud of the way the boys played from start to finish.
• We started strong in the 1st quarter, setting the tone early with Hudson and Miles attacking the basket and finishing well, while Kasper added a steady bucket off the bench. Our defensive pressure created turnovers, and we were able to build a solid 16–9 lead by the break.
• In the 2nd quarter, we kept our composure despite Lakeside pushing back. Cayden and Hudson continued to find ways to score inside, Cole’s defensive hustle turned into points, and Baxter and Miles both made key contributions late. Even when Lakeside made a short run, we stayed composed and went into halftime up 27–21.
• The 3rd quarter was where we really took control. Hudson and Miles worked brilliantly inside, Louis gave us great energy, and Barnaby knocked down a big three that lifted the team. Our ball pressure forced mistakes, and by the end of the quarter, we had stretched the margin to 51–33.
• In the 4th quarter, the boys showed maturity, turning defence into transition offence and finishing strong around the basket. Louis was outstanding, Jesse attacked relentlessly, and Cole’s pressure helped keep the tempo in our favour. We closed the game with an excellent run, piling on 26 points in the last term to seal a 77–46 win.
• Overall, I was especially pleased with our intensity on defence – steals, deflections, and pressure all across the court. Offensively, we shared the ball well, trusted each other, and multiple players stepped up to score. This was the kind of all-round team effort we’ve been building towards, and it shows the progress the group is making.
• Miles Southwell delivered one of his best games of the season, leading the way with a dominant scoring performance. He poured in a team-high 20 points on an impressive 75% shooting, showing great touch around the basket and making the most of every opportunity. He also added 5 rebounds, working hard on the boards to give the team extra possessions and help control the game. Confident, efficient, and composed, Miles set the tone offensively and gave the team a huge boost in a standout performance.
• Louis Griffiths put together a strong all-round performance, finishing with 10 points at an efficient 57% shooting. He attacked the basket with great physicality, using his strength to create scoring opportunities and put pressure on the defence. On the boards, he pulled down 6 rebounds, competing hard in traffic to secure key possessions. Louis also worked tirelessly on defence, making life difficult for his opponents and bringing consistent effort throughout the game. A tough, physical display that highlighted his impact on both ends of the floor.

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

Lost against Rockingham Flames 51-41

Coach comments

• A well-fought game to finish the season. A slow start by both teams saw us down 5 at halftime. We played through foul trouble and significant momentum swings to stay composed, and in the end, go down by 10 points.
• Zach Harris showed more flashes of composure and ball pressure, playing a bigger role inside the paint.
• Rion Carter’s north-south driving was huge for us as well. He was direct, strong, and active in the driving lanes and on rebounds.
• Marko Delic played a role as a tagger for the first time this season. He took his matchup out of the game and stayed composed after early fouls.

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

Lost against Eastern Suns 45-47

Coach comments

• The girls went toe to toe with the Suns in one of the most physical contests we’ve faced all season. At first, it felt more like a footy match than basketball, but to their credit, the team adjusted, matched the Suns’ physicality and knocked down their free throws to go into halftime all locked up.
• The third quarter brought foul trouble, which forced us to shuffle rotations and gave the Suns room to build a 7-point lead. But true to character, the girls never backed down. They fought all the way to the final buzzer, closing the gap to 2 points and were unlucky not to steal it with a couple of shots that just wouldn’t fall.
• Although the scoreboard didn’t go our way, it was a strong performance, and one that should give us plenty of confidence heading into next week’s finals rematch.
• Freya Whitehouse was rock solid in defence, battling hard in the paint for 10 rebounds and 3 steals.
• Saige Deeks was strong at both ends, collecting 8 rebounds, 1 steal, 2 blocks and adding 9 points, including a classy reverse layup off an offensive board and some composed shooting at the line (3/4).
• Darcey Hill brought her trademark hustle, disrupting the Suns’ offence and drawing a crucial charge in the fourth.
• Huge congrats to Siena Mouttet, who played her 50th WABL game for Perth Redbacks today.

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

Lost against Mandurah 36-72

Coach comments

• We had a flat start to the game, and overall Mandurah were too fast and too sharp across four quarters. But we found some spirit late in Q3 and played with heart at the start of Q4, but didn’t get much reward for effort on the scoreboard. Still, we went out fighting.
• Eva Blyth and Elsey Lohman white used some besties chemistry to generate some of our best offense, working together to run more patient, simple and smart offense. Eva sparkled again with another corner 3 and got a lot of the ball in the second half, and bravely just went through them in transition.
• Lily Butler has been stronger and stronger week after week, and when the team went for it in Q4 she led the charge and played fast, aggressive basketball and found some buckets.
• Jana Djurasovic also lifted in the fourth, playing with more intensity and desperation.
• Skye Brodie did an amazing job of travelling the court swiftly in transition throughout the fast-paced game. She kept going as hard as she could and worked hard to get rebounds. She was jumping all day.

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

Won against Warwick 49-31

Coach comments

• A good game to end the regular season on. The girls were pushed at the start, but they stuck to what we know and managed to pull away from Warwick. In the third quarter, the girls’ defensive pressure proved too much for Warwick to handle, resulting in multiple turnovers in a row.
• Offensively, we struggled to finish in the first half, but the girls remained confident and continued shooting until they finally went in.
• Josie Smith had a big game, staying consistent throughout the entire game. Josie had 8 points and a massive 18 rebounds.
• Stevie Brehaut stayed aggressive from the second she stepped on court till the end of the game.
• Bella Tolley continues to improve week in week out, her hard work is paying off during games.

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

Lost against East Perth Eagles Blue 45-69

Coach comments

• We kept up with East Perth for the first half, with a strong second quarter offensively.
• We pushed the ball up the court and did well to keep moving and tire out the defence, taking advantage of their bad passes with intercepts.
• Defensively, we picked up our players early, stopped the ball, and kept our hands out.
• Eagles matched our speed in the second half and challenged us offensively, but at no point did the girls give up or slow down.
• We did a fantastic job of passing the ball in quickly before the Eagles could set up defensively.
• Madeleine Marshall had an amazing game, dishing off great passes, crashing rebounds at both ends, and attacking the basket aggressively.
• Eloise Watts was strong all game, stepping up in help, and putting up offensive rebounds. El is always a positive voice off the bench and can always be counted on to give her all.
• Sophie Nichols was aggressive offensively and had good vision in offensive transition. Soph runs her hardest every minute she’s on court.
• Massive congrats to Zoe Bartucciotto – this was her 50th WABL for Perth Redbacks.

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

Lost against Willetton Tigers 61-67

Coach comments

• A strong performance to close out the regular season has us well-positioned heading into next weekend against the top of the table.
• This was our most complete game of the year, taking the second-placed Tigers to within six points.
• Our focus remains on sustaining our highest level of play for longer stretches, as we continue to build towards consistent four-quarter performances.

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

Won against Lakeside Lightning 62-58

Coach comments

• Facing a top-of-the-ladder Lakeside team, which had only had a single loss for the season, was always going to be a tough ask.
• Our game plan was solid, and we were determined to stick to it for 4 quarters. Ball protection was key; however, our ability to help and recover defensively was starting to put pressure on Lakeside to score.
• We took a hard-fought 5-point lead into quarter time and extended this to 9 at the half. Lakeside fought back in the 3rd quarter, and in a tense final term, we were never headed and won by 4.
• Winning the rebound count by 7 with our leading rebounder (Ted Jarlett) out sick was very pleasing.
• Noah Mucjanko gives 100% at all times on court. Defensively, Noah was game high in both deflections and steals, and just makes it very difficult for teams to dictate to us when they’re on offense.
• Tom Smith has high expectations, and our challenge is to make him see his importance to the team extends beyond points. Tom top scored with 16 points, however it was leadership and ability to make free throws down the line that sealed the win.
• Scott Samuel had large periods where he just took the game over, especially at the offensive end. Any one-on-one coverage resulted in Scotty getting to the hoop. The space he then created resulted in open 3-point looks for his teammates.

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

Lost against Slammers 64-58

Coach comments

• In what was a dead rubber, as both sides will play each other in the first week of the finals, I gave the whole squad the opportunity to impress for finals minutes.
• A game where we had a focus on scoring more led to us having one of our best offensive games of the season, but unfortunately, we also produced our worst defensive game of the year. Something we will address going into the rematch.
• We trialled a new trapping D that has some potential, and the four-out spacing helped the boys find gaps. We made the extra pass on several occasions to create good scoring opportunities.
• It has been a pleasure to coach the boys this season, and I am looking forward to Sunday’s finals game. We have kept a few cards up our sleeve for the Slammers to deal with.

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

Won against Hills Raiders 64-55

Coach comments

• This was a scrappy game as we couldn’t get much transition going, so we had to rely on our half court offence, which did pretty well for probably around the first three quarters. All around, we probably should’ve won by more. We let them come back into the game, but got the job done, and now it’s time to focus on finals
• Josh, I thought, really spaced the floor well. He found himself open on the three point line and knocked them down. He also made good decisions and boxed out well. Really strong game from all areas of the court for Josh.
• Flynn had a great game as well on both ends. He played bigger than he is and was boxing out. On offense, he really had the ball on a string with his passing, getting to the basket and putting up floaters.

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

Won against Perry Lakes Hawks 88-50

Coach comments

• The girls started the first quarter a little tentatively but quickly found their play through positive offensive decisions and working hard on defence.
• Ella had a great game, scoring 26 points. She got great assistance from Scarlett, who had a strong game too with 19pts.
• Abigail and Annabelle played really well to contain their backcourt.

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

Won against Cockburn Cougars 76-48

Coach comments

• It was nice to see the girls bounce back this week and play the way we can. When we are relaxed and confident and playing for each other, good things happen. We had a 27 to 10 second quarter that gave us a handy lead that was never really threatened. It is nice to go into the finals with a positive win.
• Ella Djurasovic was great off the bench. She provides rebounds and a physicality in her game, which has been consistent all year. She was rewarded for effort with 10 points in this game.
• Astoria Burridge had her best game of the year. She played hard, was confident and made great decisions with the ball. She understands our structures well and where to get into space. Great job!!
• Was nice to see Cherie Zak gain some confidence in this game. She is a crucial part of our back court and when she is firing we just look a better team.

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

Lost against Cockburn 34-77

Coach comments

• Huge congrats to Maddie McKibbin, who played her 50th WABL game for Perth Redbacks in this game.

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

Lost against Magic 64-77

Coach comments

• Lots of sickness and injury going into the last round, unfortunately, in this game, we just didn’t have the want or energy for the ball.
• Soni Karimi killed it with her 3s.
• Emily Flynn did a great job posting up and getting open.
• Teah James killed it in all aspects.

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

Lost against Cockburn 74-107

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

Lost against Rockingham 67-75

Coach comments

• In the first quarter, Rockingham showed why they are top of the table and ran out to a 8-21 lead. We fought hard, winning the 2nd and 4th quarters, got within 5, but weren’t able to bridge the gap. The effort was fantastic, we had lots of good opportunities we believe we can execute on any other given day. Good job gents.
• Tace Rankin and Isaac Fode steadied the ship with composed plays throughout the game, while Erik Davies and Arman Demir rebounded very well against a bigger opposition.
• Lucas Le celebrated his 50th WABL game for Perth Redbacks in this game. Well done, Lucas!

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

Lost against Warwick 79-73

Coach comments

• In our most physical game of the year, we started strong with some quality basketball, but the contest quickly turned into bully ball, and Warwick adjusted better than we did. Despite holding an early lead, foul trouble in the fourth quarter hurt us, and we couldn’t quite hang on, falling short in the end.
• Harrison Moyle battled bravely against an opponent with at least 20kg on him, standing tall as our most reliable presence inside. He finished with 10 points, 5 rebounds, and a highly efficient 62% shooting.
• Zeke Brian was everywhere — contributing across the board with 8 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 6 deflections, and an incredible 12 steals.

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

Won against Mandurah 88-29

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

Lost against Eastern Suns 58-77

Coach comments

• Our challenge this season has been to be the most competitive version of ourselves. On Sunday, we didn’t start like that and gave up a 27/10 lead in the first. By the fourth, it was us who dominated with a 27/14 advantage, but the damage was done. But we know, when we’re locked in, we can score on and defend anybody. We’ve secured sixth on the ladder, and it’s time to put it together in finals.
• Harriet Woods has continued to be intense on defence and our most consistent scorer. She was locked in on Sunday.
• Amina Handile played her 50th game and was excellent, bringing energy on D and boards and rim-running for advantage buckets.
• Steph Hunt returned from injury after 10 weeks and was aggressively looking for teammates up the court in transition and hungry for steals and deflections.

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

Lost against Lightning 72-81

Coach comments

• All of our games against this side have been games of momentum, and this was no different. We had a really pleasing start to the game, getting on top early with good intensity in defence and on the boards, but to their credit, Lightning responded in the latter part of the quarter. The second term belonged to our opponents as they lifted defensively and they were able to capitalise with transition baskets.
• The third quarter saw us back on top as we looked after the ball better and took control of the keyway again. The fourth quarter was a see-saw affair again, with Lightning coming out on top on the back of some excellent shooting and finishing. Putting up our highest points tally for the year was a good sign as we go into finals.
• Tilly Wyatt had her best finishing game of the season to top score with 16 points at 70%. Tilly was also once again a disruptor defensively forcing multiple jump balls and joined Lola Bingwa to lead the team with 6 deflections and 2 steals each.
• Lola Bingwa also had a game out on the offensive end, dropping 3 of her 5 attempts from beyond the arc to go with her 4 assists.
• Niamh Murphy had a strong game, contributing really well with 13 rebounds, including 5 on the offensive end and 4 blocks.
• Arabella Kahl also contributed throughout the match, often contesting really well to prevent Lightning scores and rebounds, creating space for others offensively and while adding to the score with her trademark finishing ability.

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

Lost against Wolves 39-48

Coach comments

• We started strong, then backed off a little as the team judged the contact they were up against. Due to the girls’ increased game IQ and footwork, the team changed the pace together and called their plays well, winning the second quarter 17-10!!
• To finish the regular season with a “best of all four quarters” game was fantastic to see. Right to the last minute, the team kept their feet moving, voices on and 100% effort.
• Ella Baxter and Sam Morgan started our shot count and continued to give amazing assists, make great shot choices and finish well.
• Chelsea Ferris showed strong rebounding and steals which frustrated the Wolves.

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

Won against Hills Raiders 113-53

Coach comments

• After being up 6 points at quarter time, the boys really kicked into gear to win comfortably. All 7 players scored in double figures. A good bounce back after last week.
• Jaden Exeter and Ben Galvin led the team with both scoring 23 points.
• Koby Kalebic played an excellent game with both Zayde and Hamish not available. He took on a much bigger role as a primary ball handler.

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

Won against East Perth Eagles 81-75

 

Coach comments

• Pre-finals thriller! We started a little sluggish—took a while to find rhythm on offense, and their shooters came out blazing in the first quarter. We stayed in the fight but looked a bit disjointed early on.
• The highlight? Welcoming Rodney back just in time for finals. He shook off some rust, but his presence was felt—especially with a monster block that lit a fire under our defence. From that moment, things started clicking.
• Hamza dominated the glass, propelling our defensive effort.
• JR found his groove and knocked down some crafty shots.
• Hunter’s aggressive drives cracked open their defence and set up clean looks for our twin towers.
• Zaydn demonstrated exceptional defence on the ball.
• It was a tight, back-and-forth battle all the way to the final three minutes. That’s when we turned the screws—snagged a few quick steals, forced turnovers, and built a 10-point cushion. It looked like we were about to run away with it… until they clawed back to make it interesting. However, we held on for a nice little win heading into finals.

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

Won against East Perth Red 79-65

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

BYE

21-1 Girls – John Care’

Lost against Kalamunda Suns 67-88

Coach comments

• We knew it was going to be a tough game on Kalamunda’s home court, and their desire to close out their season on a win. We started strong, but were unable to convert on the offensive end and get stops in defence, which made for a long day. Passages of play at times were good, but not enough to get the win.
• Now we focus on the finals.
• Hannah Saliacus ran the floor well, getting stops and contributing 14 pts.

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

Won against East Perth 85-70

Coach comments

• We looked a little slow out of the gate, but found our stride in the second quarter.
• East Perth pushed hard for the remainder of the game, but we did enough to win.
• Looking forward to getting our finals campaign underway.

20-2 Boys – John Foley

Lost against Lakeside lightning 83 to 117

Coach comments

• In our final game of the season, I challenged the team to give it everything they had and to finish with a smile, creating memories we could all walk away with.
• From start to finish, the message was the same: work hard for each other, set solid screens, roll to the basket, cut when needed, and if it’s your moment—take it on. The boys embraced that challenge and delivered, not just for me, but for each other and the team.
• We faced a strong Lakeside Lightning side who shot the ball with great accuracy, but I was proud of how we competed. Our rebounding and boxing out at both ends were outstanding, and the effort never dropped.
• The result may not have gone our way, but the boys walked off the court knowing they gave it their all—and they did it with smiles on their faces. That’s the way to finish a season.
• James Reid had his best game of the season. He caught fire this game, knocking down some great shots and leading our Redbacks scoring with a season high 23 points
• Alex Tinlin had a day out also, being really aggressive towards the basket and scoring Ibelieve his season-high 19 points.
• Xavier Tanner also had a season high 11 points. With his defensive mindset and never give up attitude he pushed though the physicality and made his mark on the game.