Weekly WABL Wrap – Round 3 – 11 May 2025

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

Here’s the Round 3 wrap-up of how all our teams went, including comments from coaches:

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

Lost to Slammers 9-80

Coach comments

• Slammers’ defensive pressure played against our team, causing steals and turnovers, which resulted in the scoring difference. The ball movement and communication improved throughout the play, unfortunately, not soon enough for the girls to have a comeback.
• While all the girls did their best to get through the double team defence, Madelyn Duffield’s attitude and enthusiasm all throughout the game was a boost to the team chemistry.

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

Won against Warwick 19-17

Coach comments

• This game was the most stressful game I’ve ever coached… But it was also one of the most interesting and intense games I’ve ever been a part of as well. The girls played amazingly throughout the whole game, a stunning difference to our other games, I swear I had 10 different players out there! 
• The girls gave it their all from the very beginning, not wanting to have a loss on Mother’s Day and all to make their mums proud (and they all did and myself). These girls gave so much heart to the game, it was a truly beautiful experience and a deserved win for the girls <3 
• We also had the U12 Redbacks girls teams 3 and 4 cheer the girls on which really helped with their success and determination in the game !!
• Katrijn Out was amazing this game, using her height to her advantage and jumping to fight to get rebounds no matter what end she was at! Her dedication to getting better on court through practising outside of trainings is seriously showing through and I am so proud of her and her focus!!
• Caitlyn Lim was a little ninja during the game! I couldn’t tell where she was half the time, but she ended up causing a lot of turnovers and problems for the other team to get the ball in the hoop. She did this all with a smile on her face that could warm anyone’s heart <3
• Claire McKern was a whole different person on Sunday. She locked in and got rebounds and even stepped up being a leader on court when no one was taking charge!! She even drove for layups multiple times and didn’t do an emu when dribbling up the court once which shocked me the most!! I can’t wait to have this Claire again and again this season!!
• Jem Hargave was a menace on the court! I couldn’t tell if she was on court half the time or Erin! She defended like a boss the entire time and used her cross country skills to help out in fast break situations and quick turnover situations as well!!!

12-3 Girls – Paul Philpott

Won against Redbacks 4 27-28

Coach comments

• Wow, another clencher today! It was tit for tat the entirety of the game resulting in an equal result at the end of the fourth triggering extra time battle between the Redbacks 3’s & 4’s. However, today we all learnt that Champions are made both on the court and in the heart! From the very start and right to the final buzzer, our Redback Warriors maintained a powerful defence despite the opposition’s strength and determination. Both Redbacks teams did everyone proud, producing another beautiful day in the Redbacks neighbourhood.
• Whilst it was certainly a team collective, Ava Socratous had a stunning and vital influence on the game with her availability to finish off our transitions and keep us in the game. 
• Jessica Ryan underwent an amazing transformation not yet seen before, becoming an absolute powerhouse under the offensive ring. Keep it up Jess. Both girls were impossible to miss for our sideline supporters.

12-4 Girls – Dave Power

Lost to Redbacks 3 27-28

Coach comments

• This was a tight defensive game with both teams finding small breakouts. Down 9-14 at halftime, the girls played a huge second half to be up two in the final minute. The 12-3 Girls scored to tie the game and send it to overtime. After an exciting overtime, with a few good looks that missed, the 12-3 Girls got up by 1, but it was still a fantastic effort from our girls!
• Narayana Daley showed her potential at point guard, controlling the midcourt and attacking downhill. Narayana’s passing became contagious and we moved the ball well for some nice stretches of play. 
• Ella Jones was aggressive offensively and got a season-high 10 points.
• All the girls were after it on defence, top effort, great game!

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

Won against Mandurah 60-42

Coach comments

• Today’s game showed us that the boys are settling in well this season, finding what works best for them on the court, and being the best at it. Our rebounding from the bigs was exceptional. The guards forced many turnovers with hard pressure, and everyone was putting 100% of their energy out on the court. When they became tired, they came running out for a sub.
• The boys looked like a strong team out there as everyone was playing for each other, from the first quarter we played a trap and doubled the ball to force easy turnovers, where we ran up the score to lead by 11 ending the quarter, the boys pushed hard to maintain their lead and build off it, winning by 18. Our guards were all over the ball, and our bigs blocked a lot of their shots under our basket.
• Xavier Coombe played his best game this season as an all-around player. He did everything we asked today, he took the game into his hands in the first quarter and did not look back, no one was able to slow him one on one, he took those chances and punished Mandurah, either by scoring or drawing 3 or 4 players in and making the easy dump pass to our bigs. In the backcourt, he was just as dominant, and the pressure he put on the opposing team was exceptional.
• Andre Karpeh put in a great run today. When he gets into the game, he is quite hard to stop, and the other team struggles to find an answer for him. He played some very aggressive basketball in the 4th quarter, it was hard for Mandurah to stop him, his defense and offense was great, as he created many assists for our bigs late in the game to put the other team away.

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

Lost to Rockingham 54-57

Coach comments

• The boys started the game well, spacing the floor and looking to find each other for open shots. Their defensive intensity and pressure were great, pressuring the ball and forcing many turnovers. The boys were doing well, and they lost unfortunately after the Flames went on a run, but the boys should be very proud of their efforts. It was a massive improvement compared to the last two weeks, and it really showcased their efforts from training.
• Riley Kuan’s defence was excellent has really stepped up making efforts to get back on defences, denying the offence and pressuring the ball. Offensively, he was looking for his teammates and finding good shots; he controlled the pace of the offence too, allowing us to play controlled. Great job Riley. 
• Ioane Ivala-Kotua was a strong presence in the paint crashing the glass for second-chance points. Offensively, he did well to make runs and space the floor, allowing for easy baskets at the ring. He did well not to force up shots, make smart decisions, and not to rush himself. Well done Ioane.

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

Won against Mandurah Black 66-64

Coach comments

• In our third WABL game, we faced a tough challenge against Mandurah but showed great resilience. After an even start, Mandurah put together a 6-0 run to lead 8-2, but we responded and trailed just 13-8 at quarter time. The second quarter saw us settle into a rhythm offensively. A strong 10-2 run sparked by Hudson and Miles brought us level at 20-20. We kept the momentum, and a late basket from Cayden gave us a 26-24 halftime lead.
• We started the third quarter on fire with a 7-0 run from Jesse, Miles, and Cayden to push our lead to 33-24. Mandurah briefly closed the gap, but another 8-0 run gave us control heading into the final quarter up 42-35.
• Mandurah thoroughly outplayed us for most of the 4th quarter to see us trail 54-58 with just 30 seconds to play. Then Quinn single-handedly saved the game for us with a great assist to Miles for 2, stealing the ball back, drawing a foul and hitting both free throws to tie the score at 58-58, sending the game into overtime.
• Overtime was dominated by massive defensive pressure by both teams. The difference being they fouled several more times sending us to the line where Louis, Hudson and Cole all hit clutch free throws to give us a 2-point win, 66-64.
• It was a solid team effort, with multiple players contributing on both ends. We responded well to pressure and showed improvement in composure and ball movement throughout the game.
• Quinn Connell was a defensive standout in this week’s game. His relentless pressure on the ball created multiple turnovers, with key steals that halted Mandurah’s momentum at crucial moments. Late in the game, Quinn’s intensity and hustle on defence and clutch free throws saved the game, giving us the chance to win in overtime. A true example of how effort on defence can change the outcome of a game.
• Hudson McClintock delivered an outstanding all-around performance, with 15 points. He did an excellent job controlling the offence, making smart decisions with the ball and ensuring we stayed composed under pressure. Hudson consistently protected possession, avoiding turnovers and setting up teammates in key moments. On the defensive end, his pressure and intensity helped force errors and disrupt Mandurah’s rhythm. A composed and complete game from our floor general.

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

BYE

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

Won against Willetton White 50-39

Coach comments

• It was fantastic to notch our first win of the season in what was a hard-fought and determined contest. The first half was closely contested on the scoreboard. While we felt in control for much of the time, we weren’t able to capitalise on our chances. Willetton shot well, particularly from the free-throw line, which gave them a 3-point lead at the half. In the second half, our relentless defensive pressure proved the difference. We held Willetton to just 13 points while adding 27 of our own, taking full control of the game.
• Defensively, the girls were outstanding—dominating the boards, limiting second-chance opportunities, and not giving up any points in transition. Offensively, we created plenty of quality looks and ran the floor well in transition.
• There were plenty of positives to take from this game. If we continue to improve our finishing and reduce turnovers, we’ll be in a position to close games out more comfortably.
• It was great to see contributions across the board, and we’re beginning to see the rewards of having a full squad at training for a second consecutive week. The improved chemistry is clear, with the team developing stronger trust and understanding on the court.
• Molly Nicholas returned to her top form from last season, showing relentless hustle with 5 steals and leading the scoring with 15 points.
• Siena Mouttet delivered another dominant defensive performance, setting the tone with 12 rebounds, 4 steals, 3 assists, and a massive 7 blocks.
• Saige Deeks was again strong in the paint, pulling down 16 rebounds, adding 2 blocks, and finishing well with some crucial put-backs.
• Paige Granato had another strong, well-rounded game, recording a double-double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 steals.

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

Lost to Warwick 31-52

Coach comments

• Despite some injury and illness setbacks behind the scenes, a few players out, we definitely showed up this week, and with more focused defensive matchups, we started to win a lot of the ball, and had control (albeit somewhat frantic) for the first half. For a good portion of the game we moved the ball a lot more in offence, however there were also a lot of adrenalin rushed shots with low yield, and we didn’t quite have the composure to run even some of our more simple offense, so we still need more discipline to implement our training in the game so we can get some better looks. I was really impressed to be tied with Warwick at halftime, but after that, they broke through when one of their stronger players began to assert themselves. With a full team, I think we can cover her better next time.
• Winnie Devitt was buzzing today, energised and focused. She had a hand on everything, pestering Warwick with 5 steals, 3 deflections, 1 block, 8 rebounds, and also hitting the scoreboard for 6 points. 
• Eva Blyth dragged down 12 rebounds and was great at attacking the paint. 
• Lily Butler’s strong start to the game made a big difference this week. 
• Isla Cowman had an obvious impact with intensity in every minute on court and some good discipline to get middle. This helped open up our options.
• Our fill-in players, Josie Smith and Isabella Nagamany, were really reliable additions this week, thank you girls!

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

Won against Cockburn 44-26

Coach comments

• This game was incredibly enjoyable to coach. The girls played amazingly right from the tip. I was so proud of every single one of the girls, I could not have asked for anything more. 
• Right from the tip, the girls were switched on, pressuring Cockburn all the way up the floor. I was constantly changing up the type of defence we were playing, and the girls executed every single time. 
• Offensively, we were able to attack the ring and make the right decision in terms of passing it off or taking a shot.
• Rachael Deering had an amazing defensive game, denying her player the ball and staying in front and moving her feet. 
• Isabella Nevill had an upstanding shooting game, scoring from everywhere on the court, finishing with 18 points

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

Won against Mandurah Magic White 56-18

Coach comments

• We started the game with high energy and took an early lead. 
• We played full court, pressure defence all game and kept our hands out, going for the interception over reaching for the steal – we had a total of four fouls all game! 
• We did a great job of pushing the ball forward; we also did well to recognise when to kick the ball out after a drive, if the defence collapsed.
• So far, every single player on the team has scored a bucket every game, which is an absolute reflection of the girls’ fantastic teamwork!
• Sophie Nichols has one of the hardest work ethics I have seen. She is constantly making a difference all over the court and never gives up.
• Madeleine Marshall had another focused game, pulling in the majority of our rebounds and scoring herself some nice points. 
• Ally Taylor continues to impress us all with her composure in tough situations.
• Zoe Bartucciotto dominated the boxouts, keeping much taller opponents from even touching the ball. Zoe is an extremely clever player and is always in the right position for a quick shot or easy rebound. 
• Usually I shout out whoever our team voted as the best team player- cheering on the group and keeping us positive, however I can’t remember which girls won, as they were all so amazing, so well done everyone!!!

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

Lost to Lakeside 57-64

Coach comments

• A tough game, and one that could have ended with our first win. Credit to Lakeside—they rebounded exceptionally well, limiting our shot attempts and extending their own possessions.
• In patches, we played our best basketball of the season. Defensively, we showed a strong understanding of ball pressure and protecting home. Offensively, our structure is improving, and we’re starting to grasp how to play out of actions and make the right reads.
• Will Ryan is starting to play with confidence. He continues to show his strong understanding of the game and high basketball IQ. While he often defers to others, this game he found a better balance—looking for his own shot while still creating opportunities for his teammates.
• Huge congrats to Kai Atfield who celebrated his 50th WABL game for Redbacks in this game.

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

Lost to Senators 73-81

Coach comments

• The start of the season has been a bit of a wild ride; we’ve gone 0-3 – yet there hasn’t been a game where we haven’t been right in it.
• Against Warwick, we went into the last quarter 1 point down, and absolutely had our chances, but just couldn’t land the dagger blow. 
• Our failure to protect the ball at key times was the decisive factor, which is fixable and we (the coaches) accept the challenge that when we get that right – we’ll be a very hard team to play. Kruz Viesca’s successful return from injury will help us a lot.
• Also very proud that we’ve had no technical or unsportsmanlike fouls this season, and for a second week in a row every player hit the scoreboard.
• Ted Jarlett is just having a great season, working hard both ways and really a key member of our team. He was 1 rebound shy of a double-double with 12 Points (@55%), 100% free throws, 9 boards, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 block to round out a great day.
• Noah Mucjanko is our junkyard dog, and no surprise that he led our team for steals (3). Noah just brings a defensive intensity that I hope catches on in our team. As a bottom-age player, his ability to score efficiently (4 points at 100%), 3 boards and 2 assists is fantastic.
• Jayden Austin is a point guard a coach dreams of having. Jayden is smart, selfless and keen to learn. Another player who just fills up every category 5 points, 3 boards & 2 assists, a pleasure to coach.

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

Lost to Joondalup Wolves 34-58

Coach comments

• Away from home, the boys came out with a hot start and got up
• 10-0 and looked to build on where we left off last week. The Wolves increased their work rate, and although we were still ahead late in the second quarter, we had a sloppy end to the half, a poor third quarter, and the game was lost. 
• With a focus on ball security, concentration, and finishing our work at key times, I am confident that the boys will rebound and grow from this game.
• James Price had another strong game, showing that a good step is helpful in finishing in traffic. He had a solid plus-minus of +4.
• Laurence Yape led us in rebounds with 6 against bigger opponents and battled hard and continues to improve.

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

Lost to Eastern Suns 41-74

Coach comments

• We struggled in the first half with their press and not being switched on about how to break it. Our intensity wasn’t where it needed to be in the first half, but I was really happy with our second half. Even though the score had already blown out we kept trying and it showed.
• Eli Mancini was a big reason why the our intensity and aggression lifted – he just went out in the second half wanting to steal the ball 
• Lennox Gundlach had a really good game – he was poised, didn’t turn it over, stayed in front on defence and didn’t let his man get by.

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

Won against Hills Raiders 68-46

Coach comments

• This game started off really slowly; it was hard to find a rhythm given the physical play of the opposition. The girls did a great job adjusting after halftime to push their lead out to 20 points. I was pleased with the girls’ effort, especially as they are learning new offensive principles.
• I was really happy with the perseverance our bigs (Paige, Grace, Lottie and Jamima) showed. We got fantastic 3pt shooting from Chelsea. Summer, Annabelle and Abigail did a good job looking after the ball and getting us into our offensive flow

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

Lost to Willetton White 50-40

Coach comments

• The girls fought really hard. Apart from a poor second quarter, we stayed level most of the game. I can’t fault their fight, they stayed strong to win the last quarter and peg the score back.
• Shooting in this game killed us. When you make only 10 from 35 free throws, you’re always going to fight an uphill battle. 
• But lucky for us, teams aren’t beating us; we are beating ourselves, which means we have plenty of room for improvement going forward.
• Astoria Burridge had her best game of the season. She played smart and composed and made good decisions. She has done plenty to earn more court time next well. Well done.
• Alessia Wladyka continues her consistent start to the season. Always trusted with the ball in hand. She plays selfless and is always the ultimate team player.
• Olivia Birsa continues to play strong off the bench. She has a very high basketball IQ and because we’ve started the season with a high level of turnovers I’ll be looking at players like Olivia who look after the ball well and play within our structures.

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

Won against Perry Lakes 68-47

Coach comments

• Words cannot explain how proud I am of how the girls performed this weekend. They brought everything they had, and it was so clear that they wanted to win. Despite the Hawks making a comeback during the second quarter, putting them only 1 point behind us, the girls fought hard to push the lead out by 20 points. It was an incredible game to watch and the improvement of all the girls is amazing, and I am super proud of how they are progressing
• Lauren Jones played an amazing game. She was switched on and was extremely ball-hungry. Her intensity was a massive standout, pressuring the ball and forcing turnovers all game.
• Trinity Doulis was the hype of the team this weekend. The girls started to get tired and dropped their heads, but Trinity was not going to allow that. Making as much noise as possible, she made sure the girls felt supported, and it was beautiful. I have definitely lost some of my hearing after that!
• Anabella Lewis ran her heart out this weekend, getting back in defence and fighting for the ball very hard. She didn’t give up causing turnovers and got some really good intercepts!

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

Lost to Senators 44-69

Coach comments

• Great second-half effort from the girls. The Senators came out wanting the ball a lot more than we did, so we had to play a catch-up game in the last quarter, but we sure gave them a run for their money. The girls stayed playing their own game even when they were being spoken to badly by the opposition..
• Harper Grace, for the second week in a row, played a consistent key role within the team 
• Nora Ostermeyer was not afraid to take some contact and was always the loudest on the bench

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

Lost to East Perth 118-65

Coach comments

• We started off ok. We knew what type of game East Perth played: attacking the basket and transition. We talked about it, but unfortunately failed to action it. 
• There were positive parts of the game – when we moved the ball and ran our system, we went on scoring runs, but we didn’t do it consistently enough. 
• Crashing the boards did create second chance opportunities, but it wasn’t ideal for East Perth’s transition game, as we didn’t have safety defenders.
• James Galvin shot well from deep, coming off on-ball screens, finishing with 17. 
• Macen Ridge had a strong 8 points inside.

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

Lost to Perry Lakes Blue 60-63

Coach comments

• Down 3 at halftime, we had a solid defensive third quarter that gave us a 5-point lead. We had some great looks in the fourth that didn’t drop, and a few late-game turnovers that cost us. We feel like we played much better as a team than Perry Lakes, and some execution down the stretch would have made the difference. Well-competed game.
• Tace Rankin, in his 100th game, top-scored with 15, hitting three 3’s and attacking the rim. 
• Sebastian Doyle added an extra dynamic to his game, slashing and cutting, plus taking defenders off the dribble 1v1.
• Every player contributed defensively, and as a result, every player got on the scoreboard.

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

Won against Willetton White 99-82

Coach comments

• Another impressive performance from our boys, built on a foundation of tough, disciplined defence.
• Lucas Vojkovic had another outstanding shooting night, knocking down five three-pointers and finishing as the game’s top scorer. His consistency from beyond the arc continues to be a major weapon in our offense.
• Zeke Brian was a relentless force on both ends of the court. He applied constant pressure to their top ball handler, disrupting their rhythm and setting the tone defensively. Despite taking some heavy contact while attacking the basket in transition, Zeke’s toughness stood out — especially as the smallest player on the court — grabbing six huge rebounds when we needed them most.
• Harrison Moyle dominated in the paint, contributing a strong 20 points along with five blocks. His presence inside gave us both a reliable scoring option and a defensive anchor at the rim.

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

Lost to Lakeside 61-71

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

Lost to Warwick 38-117

Coach comments

• We were particularly short-staffed this week and up against a top team so this is one for us to let go and not dwell on. However, facing relentless full-court D all game gave us good opportunities for players to step up in different roles and I was proud of the fight, resilience and composure we showed despite being in a blowout situation.
• Matilda Pyne was excellent in this game, attacking the paint and making excellent decisions while bringing awesome D. 
• Grace Almond was super committed and brought great attack at both ends every second of the game.
• Grace Butcher stepped up for us from the 16-1 Girls and was a huge asset on the boards and taking her opportunities in O.

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

Lost to Wolves White 40-63

Coach comments

• We failed to finish our opportunities in the first quarter, where the sun halo over the ring seemed to put a curse on it. Unfortunately, we then fell away in the second and early parts of the third quarter, due to a combined lack of intensity in defence, rebounding, and decision-making with the ball, which allowed our opponent’s confidence to build along with their lead. 
• A brief period in the middle of the third quarter showcased some of the basketball we’re capable of, featuring good defensive stops, clean transitions, and composed finishing. We will look to bring more of that play into the start of our next match.
• Alex Temby returned to the team and had a solid outing, consistently trying in defence and on the boards while generating scoring opportunities (six assists) through solid passing and heads-up play.
• Arabella Kahl had another good week with 5 blocks and 3 steals, plus countless efforts to tip contested rebounds to teammates.
• Lola Bingwa demonstrated the problems she can cause opponents with 5 deflections and 7 steals.
• Niamh Murphy backed up her assists from last week with good paint protection, recording 5 blocks of her own. 
• Matilda Wyatt continues to position herself well with 5 offensive boards to go with 5 more at the other end.

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

Won against Mandurah 41-36

Coach comments

• From the tip-off to the last 10 seconds, the girls gave a great show. Dedicated to teamwork, careful passing, and fast footwork, they deserved this win over a very tactile opponent. Our ball movement in offence was fluid and mostly excellent, and defensively, we were a menace
• Paige Wigmore battled strongly under the basket to get most of our rebounds and put-backs.
• Sam Morgan ran the court with speed and great decision-making, taking excellent shots.

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

Won against Mandurah 86-57

Coach comments

• We started very well, holding Mandurah to only 4 first-quarter points and took a 20-point lead into half-time. Mandurah pushed back in the third quarter before we took over again
• Cuba Brian shot the ball exceptionally well for his 22 points (9 of 12)
• Jaden Exeter had 17 boards and 6 assists, and played great defence that included 5 blocks
• Michael Ryan showed how much we missed his hustle last week, and it was great to have him back. In addition to that hustle, he also contributed 16 points.

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

Lost to East Perth 53-94

Coach comments

• This week we played at 8 am, and it showed. It felt like most of us were still asleep, including me. We only had 8 players this week due to injury, and unfortunately, the game was super physical. We felt we couldn’t play at that level cause if we got into foul trouble we would find ourselves short handed. It was also one of those games where everything went wrong. We were rattled by physicality early, we were missing wide open shots, layups and they put a half-court trap that caused turnovers. We didn’t work as a team and it showed on the scoreboard as the East Perth lead ballooned.
• Hamza Elmi showed some good touch around the ring and rebounding presence
• Great defence from Zadyn Thomas.
• Overall, though, a disappointing game for everyone.

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

Lost to Warwick 75-86

Coach comments

• Senators are the toughest team in our division, and our boys took them head-on, never backing down in this game. We were down by about 25 at halftime and only ended up losing by 9 – I’m very proud of how the boys played.
• Seina Pirmorady and Jenson Harders were definitely the standouts in this game – they brought immense intensity defensively and gave everything they had.
• Seina had an impressive 15 points in the fourth quarter alone. 
• Jalen Dunstan and Harvey Wishart continue to lead from the front with their statistical consistency

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

Won against Slammers 85-63

Coach comments

• Leading into week three, we had been working on strengthening our defensive strategy and building on our motion offence, which we applied from the start of the game. Flu season hit the team, but gave an opportunity for others to support and find the energy. We came out with composure in our motion offense from the start, but the shots were not converting. Defensively, we forced turnovers, putting pressure on the ball and Slammers headed into team foul trouble, resulting in a seven-point lead by the end of the first quarter. By the end of the third quarter, the team’s intensity remained and amazing ball pressure creating turnovers and steals – we led by 10 pts. Regrouping on our game plan as we headed into the fourth quarter, teamwork, intensity and agreement that we would finish as we started, got us a final lead to 22pts. What stood out was the dedication to one team mentality on court and on the bench, celebrating each highlight and encouraging team-mates when it counted.
• Will Bacci had a fantastic game playing strong defence and leading on turnovers and steals while adding 16 points to the total – well done Will!
• Tom Lindegger played an excellent game in every quarter and was the top scorer with 30 points. His leadership stood out, as he consistently encouraged the team both on and off the court. 
• Anthony Laurie brought the energy the team needed, encouraging the team to dig deeper when it mattered.

21-1 Girls – John Care’

Lost to Perry Lakes Hawks Blue 37-100

Coach comments

• We knew this would be a tough game going into the weekend, and it was a challenge. The girls tried hard and put up a fight and unfortunately we could not execute – our shots were not dropping. Credit to the girls to close out the game well and win the last quarter.
• Defensively, Kate Anderson put up an amazing display on taking 4 charges in the second quarter, playing up and in and putting her body on the line.
• Hannah Honczarenko showed effort and intensity with nothing to lose and created some headaches for Perry Lakes.

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

Won against East Perth 122-73

Coach comments

• Great effort from the boys today. They took what we worked on at training and executed it. It was an even game in the first quarter, followed by a dominant three quarters from us. An even spread of scoring is always pleasing from a coach’s perspective. The boys played team first basketball, including great defence all around today. A solid hit out.
• Tavian Griffiths played significant minutes for us today and impacted on both ends in a big way. It’s great to see T’s fitness coming along, allowing us to leave him on the floor for more extended periods. 
• Hamish Elder got his offence going early and didn’t look back. His ability to be a wall on D without fouling has been an asset for us over the first three games.

20-2 Boys – John Foley

Lost to Lakeside 95-100

Coach comments

• We started the game in much better fashion this week, showing great energy and intensity on the court—a very welcome improvement. We matched the Lakeside team in the first quarter, and I felt the team finally committed to a shared strategy focused on defensive effort and improved ball movement on offense.
• The second quarter was a little rough at times, with some poor turnovers giving Lakeside easy scoring opportunities. By halftime, the foul count had reached 30 across both teams, prompting a discussion about how we could defend smarter in the second half to limit unnecessary fouls.
• We came out in the third quarter and played the way we wanted—winning that period and putting ourselves in a position to take control of the game. Unfortunately, fouls continued to pile up for both teams, forcing players to sit longer on the bench to be able to finish the game.
• In the final quarter, the boys dug deep and kept us within reach, but we ultimately fell just short, losing by 15 points to a strong Lakeside 1’s side.
• Benji Berardis had a solid outing, leading the team with 25 points. 
• Josh Welsh followed up with another consistent performance, scoring 16 points and contributing well with rebounds at both ends. 
• Luke Dropulich and Noah Rees-Turner also made solid contributions around the rim, grabbing important rebounds and adding points to the scoreboard.
• Overall, I was really pleased to see a genuine improvement across the whole team. The boys showed real intent and drive to make a difference compared to previous weeks.
• Well done, boys!