WABL Wrap Week 6 – 26/05/24
All of our “Player of the Game” superstars will receive a FREE PIZZA from our friends at Domino’s Kalamunda – Thanks Guys!
Players of the round:
Charlie Osenton (U16 Girls) – Charlie was again the workhorse in offence and defense setting up her team mates and playing lockdown defense. Charlie was impressive in transition and was everywhere. She lives and breathes energy and effort.
Aiden Scott (U18 Boys) – Aiden Scott is this weeks player of the game: each week Aiden gains confidence in himself and his team scoring PB for the season and collecting plenty of rebounds, he was a standout in Sundays game. Well done Aiden!
U12 Girls Black – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: KTrans)
Won against Willetton Tigers (36 – 35)
Coaches notes
Going into this one we knew it was going to be a fight from start to finish, and the score was never more than 2 points either way at each break. The 4th quarter saw us grind out a lead of 8 points and put ourselves in a great position to close out the game.
The Tigers however had other plans and made life very difficult for us with some great spacing and offensive rebounding. We will continue to work on staying calm under pressure, however we put in enough good work at the start of the quarter to see us weather the storm and come away with the W.
I am very proud of the progress we have made this season, when we are at our best we can match it with anyone in our division.
Player of the game
Eunice Bakulikira – Eunice had a tough matchup this week, but she went to work and did what her team needed of her. She chipped in 6 points (shooting 43%), 18 rebounds, 9 assists, 3 steals & 5 blocks! She stayed calm under pressure and came through when we needed her most by making sure Tigers didn’t get a 2nd chance at a game winning shot. Well done Eunice!
U12 Girls Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge
(Sponsored by: Clever Fox Marketing)
Loss against Warwick Senators (30 – 51)
U12 Girls White – Jemma Gartrell
Loss against East Perth Eagles (8 – 50)
U12 Boys Black – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: Fern Landscapes)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (77 – 57)
Coaches notes
It was a very scrappy game from the outset and we found ourselves scrambling to get some good offensive movement in the first quarter. The boys came up against some skilled opponents but our defensive pressure resulted in some key turnovers in the first quarter, creating a 9 point buffer.
Lakeside came out with a vengeance in the second quarter, matching our points scored. We continued to play aggressive offence and managed to outplay them again in the third quarter. At times, both teams were in foul trouble and we found ourselves battling it out on the foul line.
The fourth quarter saw us continue our on ball pressure and selfless offence helping us to take out the win.
Player of the game
Cohen Green is my player of the round. He played consistently throughout the quarters and his intensity around the ball was second to none. Well done on a great game!
U12 Boys Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge
(Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd)
Won against Mandurah Magic (61 – 44)
Coaches notes
After losing the first quarter for the first time this season, the boys responded in the middle two quarters to essentially put the game out of reach with some good defense and hard running. Mandurah had the four biggest bodies on both teams which was a challenge for us at times on the boards. The game was won with some patience on offense and our usual hounding defense.
Player of the game
Jett Christie played his best game of his young career for player of the game. Constantly putting pressure on the defense with drives to the basket and hitting the boards at both ends of the court. Spencer Massam and Levi Grey were also very good today.
U12 Boys White – Ben Marks (Sponsored by: Joel Dixon)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (56 – 63)
Coaches notes
Two evenly matched teams saw a tight tussle, with the lead changing hands on several occasions. Whilst Joondalup started out firing, the Suns boys soon settled, looking after the ball better and really pressuring the ball. Combined with some good ball movement, we took a small lead into the half full of confidence. Coming out after the break, a series of turnovers allowed Joondalup to take a double-digit lead during the third quarter. Once again, the team settled after a timeout and pushed hard, coming back on several occasions before time ran out on us, going down by 7 points. The team is to be commended for their, “never say die” attitude and constant effort on both ends of the floor. The ball movement in the half court has been a real highlight of the team of late and with the coaching staff watching footage post-game, this was further solidified as a team strength. A few less turnovers and a few calls going our way would have seen us come out on top.
There were some highlight performances this week, with Will being inserted into the starting 5 and repaying the faith with a solid game on both ends. Declan stepped up on both ends this week, making smooth moves to the basket, rebounding stronger to go along with several steals. Ollie increased his offensive output driving strong to the basket and Austin really gave some good minutes, being more physical under the basket. Zane kept the score ticking over once again with a flurry of points in the 4th as we clawed our way back.
Player of the game
Lucas Bickmore was hard to ignore this week. His usual effort on defense and great anticipation was backed up by an increased scoring output from strong drives to the basket, finishing with 13 points. He is definitely our Mr consistent.
U12 Boys Blue – Declan Kinsella
Loss against Mandurah Magic (27 – 63)
Coaches notes
We surprised the opposing team by coming out strong with intense, aggressive defense that forced numerous turnovers, prompting the opposing coach to rise from the bench.
Our team demonstrated substantial progress from the opening tip-off to the final buzzer.
Moving forward, we need to focus on quick ball movement in our offensive sets and enhance our shooting efficiency.
Overall, it was a solid performance by the team.
– Coach Lizzie
Player of the game
Munashe Rukodzi is our King of the Court this week, thanks to his consistent drives into the keyway, fearlessly challenging bigger defenders. He led the team with passion and intensity, igniting their competitive spirit.
U14 Girls Black – Bruno Kongawoin
(Sponsored by: SupaFit Seat Covers Pty Ltd)
Won against Rockingham Flames (52 – 40)
Coaches notes
As we continue to consolidate our game plan and playing strategies, the girls keep showing great signs of maturity by bringing home another “W”. The score-line does not fully reflect the level of poise many of our girls exhibited, especially towards the end of the game, when we faced a serious comeback from the Rockingham Flames.
With a 13-point lead at halftime (39-26), our game plan was on track as anticipated. However, we saw our lead evaporate down to 3 points with the Flames going on a 10-0 run. We regathered and went on a 9-0 run of our own to reassert our advantage. Benwech Kuach and Abigail Allan combined for 41 of our 52 points, keeping the Flames at bay for the victory.
Once again, Amber Brickwood stepped up admirably, making significant contributions on both offense and defense. There is more to Amber under that cool and smooth demeanor, and I’m looking forward to some big things from her as the season progresses.
I attributed the setback in the third quarter to both physical and mental fatigue. Our lack of consistent full-court training and scrimmage to date has been an obstacle, but we are managing to get the job done nevertheless.
Next week will no doubt be our toughest challenge as we will be down two key players, Leah Darroch and Poppy Hickson, as we face the Perth Redbacks. We will continue to focus on our defensive game and let that dictate our offense.
Player of the game
Amber Brickwood was voted Player of the Game this week. Amber stepped up her defensive prowess a notch, diving after loose balls and securing a few rebounds along the way, all the while assisting in bringing the ball up the court. Her spacing and angles in offense were excellent, and I hope Amber switches on the offensive aggression in the very near future to attack the basket 1-on-1 when the right matchup presents itself. Well done, Amber. Let’s do it again next week…
U14 Girls Orange – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: Genesis Craft)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (55 – 54)
Coaches notes
This was a game where it felt like the world was against us, nothing went our way and we found ourselves on the wrong end of every 50/50 call. I am immensely proud of the resilience shown by our group this week to keep our heads up and play through. Everyone supported each other when they needed it and together earned a well-deserved win.
While the game was grueling it also contained my highlight of the season so far. When the game was on the line the girls took advantage of a stop in play to huddle up and put together a plan, no time out or coach intervention required. Once play resumed they took care of business and got the W, together!
Player of the game
Lots of candidates again for this one but 2 superstars get the award this week:
Emily Sunderland – Emily has had a lot of good games so far this season, but this week she was electric! 11 points, 18 rebounds, 4 assists & 13 blocks! She dominated the paint and made some fantastic outlet passes.
Taneika Lewis – T changed the momentum of this game when we needed a spark. She came out in the 4th quarter red hot and scored 14 of our 20 points. She did it shooting an incredible 78% from the field while also notching up 3 rebounds, 10 assists & 3 steals. She was aggressive on the glass and decisive to score. When T decides its go time no one can contain her.
U14 Girls White (Rick Anderson)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (44 – 29)
U14 Girls Blue – Adam Chambers
(Sponsored by: Newtrend IT Specialists Pty Ltd)
Won against Rockingham Flames (37 – 35)
Coaches notes
After a slow start the last couple weeks the girls were looking to get going early and they did, ball pressure was outstanding and we were converting of shots down the other end of the court.
The first half was one of our best halves of basketball we have had this season. We ran our lanes, made early passes and made good decisions with our shots and drives.
The 2nd half was the complete opposite, despite having a few girls in foul trouble we stopped running hard and stopped making good passes or decisions. The girls knew they were going to win so stopped doing the things we have been practising.
When the scores got mighty close, the girls did hold on for the win but were very lucky they didn’t lose it. Lots of reminders this week at training.
Player of the game
Player of the match this week was Eliza ‘Bob’ Eaton who was amazing at both ends of the court. Lead the game in rebounds and looked confident and composed with the ball. Bob took a very long 2 pointer that never looked like missing as she looked confident with the shot. Bob’s defense was what kept us the lead at the end of the match and was first one back in defense multiple times even when she was the deepest player on offence.
U14 Boys Black – Adrian Mok (Sponsored by: SWISH Plan Management)
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (76 – 41)
U14 Boys Orange – Patrick Massam (Sponsored by: Pacific Automation Pty Ltd)
Loss against Eastern Suns (49- 89)
Coaches notes
This week it was great to see improvement in our offensive and defensive transition on the back of some poorly executed games, the boys are starting to show the effort shown in training reflected on the court.
We were matched up against top of the ladder and fellow u14 Suns White this week. It’s clear why they are top of the ladder, playing a well drilled physical game. It is great to have played them so the boys now have a good measure of our division, now knowing what gaps and style of play is needed to really be competitive in the back half of the season.
Player of the game
Rocky Barbatano – When he steps on the court he is giving everything he has, defensively and offensively. This sets a great example to the whole team and is very contagious. Great work Rocky!
U14 Boys White – Joel Warner
Won against Eastern Suns (89 – 49)
Coaches notes
Our first and third quarters were very strong, but we were out-hustled in the second quarter, which is a great sign for Suns Orange. It was a pleasure to play the Suns Orange Team, who have lots and lots of potential and a very up-beat coach. I’d like to credit Suns Orange for a great game and for their competitive spirit. Overall, we struggled at times to execute, however we did enough to achieve a convincing result in the end. We improved our baseline entries from last week and in the second half, improved some of our pick and roll options. A great sign for the Team is that our scoring spread remains excellent, with five players in double figures and everyone scoring.
Chad worked his way into the starting five unit and was heavily involved in assists and assist attempts. We also welcomed Artin into the mix this week due to Sam being inured. It was great to see him get his first WABL run and compete after weeks and weeks of hard work at practice. Artin got on the end of a sneaky lay-up and the bench was very excited for him, which is a sign of how Suns White value the whole squad. On Tuesday we will focus very closely on our skills, as we coughed up an unacceptable number of turnovers (34). We also had a larger than satisfactory foul count, which to me signifies two things: a lack of composure/ focus on the offensive end and lethargic defense. The game was officiated to a very high standard and the referees should be credited. The errors are 100% ours to own and correct. I look forward to making some important adjustments.
Player of the game
We are getting valuable contributions in many spots each week, so this again is a difficult choice. Asten and Phoenix together are dynamic and rebound/ block shots for our Team each week. Matt, Reuben, Kade and Ethan dig in and handle their defensive responsibilities week after week. Chad and Callum have a huge appetite to distribute the ball and involve their Team-mates, trying their best to honour our system and play Team focused basketball. This week though, Billy did a little of everything. The big guy loves to communicate, direct traffic and copes with his mismatches (some of which we create on purpose) very well. Billy had an electric first half and left the game with 9 rebounds and 14 points, which is a nice take-away… But he was also our most influential screener away from the ball. Those small things absolutely matter and are not lost on Coach James and I. Well done Billy, a deserved award this week. *Special mention to Arten for getting his first run and to Will and Sam for keeping the bench up-beat!
U14 Boys Blue – Yi Gan (Sponsored by: Excess Power Equipment)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (47 – 42)
Coaches notes
The matchup against Lakeside was marked early in the season as our must-win game. As the only undefeated team in the division, it was satisfying to be the ones to hand them their first loss of the season.
The game was a coach’s and player’s dream: officiated fairly, both teams competing at their highest level, and displaying outstanding sportsmanship throughout.
We started off decently, but after 4-5 minutes, we found ourselves down 1-10. After a timeout and some candid words, the lineup of Adam, Noah, Atticus, Jesse, and Kobe locked down on defense, holding them scoreless for the rest of the quarter and going on a 13-0 run to take a 14-10 lead.
The rest of the game was a rollercoaster. We were tied 21-21 at halftime, then Lakeside came out hot, hitting two three-pointers to take a six-point lead. We kept it close, heading into the final quarter with a four-point lead.
Atticus took a hard fall but made a strong comeback in the final quarter. Down by four with under six minutes left, Kobe hit a three and followed it up with a two, giving us a one-point lead that we never relinquished.
In the final minutes, with a five-point lead, the boys played smart, executing clock management perfectly to secure the win.
It was one of those games where we dealt with some pregame injuries and had a slow start, took a tough timeout, responded, lost the lead, fell behind again, fought back, took the lead, and held on. This type of game really puts players and parents through the emotional rollercoaster, teaching that there’s always time to turn the game around. Never get too low, never get too high, maintain a steady mindset, and treat every possession like it’s crucial.
This game really showed how the boys have grown and connected as a team. With the season nearly at its halfway point, it’s great to be tied in points with both Lakeside and Warwick. With two tough matchups ahead against Cockburn and Mandurah, this win gives us a bit of breathing room to stay in the top three, even if we drop one of the next two games.
Player of the game
This was a hard-fought game, and while the defensive unit deserved credit as a group, Kobe really stepped up on the offensive end. Normally focused on defense, Kobe took it upon himself to score when we needed points. He took his shots, made some, missed some, but never let it affect his confidence.
U16 Girls Black – Stewart Winsor & Elijah Gray
Won against Warwick Senators (65 – 61)
Coaches notes
We knew coming into the game that we were going to have a tough game and that we did. The girls got out to an early lead, but Warwick quickly came back into the game off some unforced errors by us. The 2nd quarter we were flat, and couldn’t find 5 players to keep on the court that wanted to run and support each other.
At half time the girls got together and discussed what they needed to do in the 3rd, inspired by Jazmins encouragement and feedback. This was exactly what the girls needed and they jumped Warwick in the 3rd to give us a little leading going into the 4th.
4th quarter defense for both teams was tough to break and scoring was hard to find. Luckily the girls held their nerves and finished off with the win.
Player of the game
Charlie was again the workhorse in offence and defense setting up her team mates and playing lockdown defense. Charlie was impressive in transition and was everywhere. She lives and breathes energy and effort.
U16 Girls Orange – Andrew Herbert
Won against South West Slammers (50 – 46)
Coaches notes
The ladies came together this round with a solid effort to get the job done against the Slammers. After a up and down 1st half they were able battle through out the 3rd quarter. The ladies executed at both ends of the floor to give us a 17-2 run during the 3rd and a lead heading into the 4th quarter. They were able to continue down the stretch and come away with an exciting win.
This week everyone contributed in multiple ways. Majority of the scoring coming from these 3 this week. Carmen Woods & Gabriella McCullaugh both contributed to the tally with 8pts each plus Charlotte Herbert added 23pts.
Player of the game
This week’s POTR goes to a lady who was able to help us during the 3rd quarter apply pressure, looked after the ball to get out of trouble and knock down an important 3 pointer which started our momentum. Congratulations Eunice Espanola.
U16 Girls White – Daniel Heyman
Won against Perth Redbacks (56 – 49)
Coaches notes
Our girls really showed up this round. A collective focus to lock down and disrupt the ball on defense help spark our offensive attack. We played better as a team, sticking to our team defensive principles and forcing the Redbacks into rushed decisions. It serves as a reminder to how we can play when we bring the energy and execute with focus and determination.
All of the girls showed outstanding effort and supported each other to earn this win. The crowd also fired up the girls by out cheering the Redback supporters.
Player of the game
Isla Andrews: Isla pulled it all together in this game. She was challenged to bring an intensity on defense whilst maintaining a disciplined and team focused approach. She locked down ball handlers, forced turnovers and relentlessly attacked the basket. Isla dropped a game and career high 17 points and was a crucial factor in our first win of the season. Amazing work Isla!
U16 Boys Black – Declan Kinsella
(Sponsored by: Angus Flexible Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (92 – 90)
Coaches notes
In a thrilling encounter, the Joondalup Wolves narrowly defeated us by 2 points, despite a determined comeback in the fourth quarter. The Wolves established an early lead with strong offense and defense, but we found our stride in the second half, steadily closing the gap. In the final minutes, our resilience was on full display as we fought to even the score. However, a last-minute turnover allowed the Wolves to hold on for a narrow victory. Despite the loss, we showcased our fighting spirit and potential for future success.
Player of the game
Jackson McClure
U16 Boys Orange – Hayden Bird
Round Bye
U16 Boys White – Thor Amundsen
Loss against Warwick Senators (71 – 74)
Coaches notes
After a big win last week, this one hurt a bit. We were unable to sustain our efforts in the first quarter, battling out a scrappy game to fall short by three points at the end. We are working through some new combinations / rotations and there will be a period of adjustment throughout this.
Close games like this do have many upsides and we had some great positives in negotiating and overcoming another press and zone variation and registering another 15 steals (primarily in transition).
As a team, we share this disappointment, acknowledging this one was all on us and we will review and reload for next week.
Player of the game
Val Luboya had a great game, registering 12 points, 16 rebounds and 4 blocks. Val is a positive and hardworking team mate who leaves everything on the court.
U16 Boys Blue – Derek Quayle
Loss against Hills Raiders (47 – 78)
Coaches notes
We actually started really well in this game but we just couldn’t finish all of our good work. I think we missed about 20 points worth of open shots. Which was the story for the second quarter as well.
After the half time break we made a more concerted effort to finish and we finished the second half only losing 30-33, but unfortunately all the damage was done in the first half.
When we ran our offense or our transition we look like a really good team, but unfortunately we go long periods in the game where we let the opposition get a big lead on us.
We need to really work on being, “switched on” in the game for longer. If we can do this, then these are the sorts of games that we can win.
I was really impressed with how many of our players chipped in for points today, a good spread of players being able to score will help us moving forward.
Lucas lead the way 11 points, Edzon pushed the transition well to score 10 while Ron and Ben chipped in with 8 & 7.
Player of the game
Marcus Goh gets player of the game this week due to his efforts on both sides of the ball. His defensive intensity was excellent and his ability to find the open player in offense was excellent.
U18 Girls Black – Rick Batista
Won against East Perth Eagles (84 – 39)
Coaches notes
Great team game again, defense was on point and our trap and full court press worked really well. This East Perth team were very young and still learning. We had some pleasing aspects in our offensive scheme and surprise scoring punch from the bench. There were moments of taking our off the prize against a lower team and we need to keep focused for big games and our future.
Player of the game
This week was really hard as we had so many even contributions but Peace Blakiston gets player of the week. Despite moments of panic, she had a lot more moments of brilliance this week. In only her 6th game we understand where she is, but she scored, got back and got steals on numerous occasions and looked a lot more settled this week. Well done Peace!
U18 Girls Orange – Charlie Smart (Sponsored by: Parker Crofts & Co)
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (58 – 65)
Coaches notes
We showed growth in all aspects of the game this week. Much more composure and we executed some great offensive structure, especially in the first quarter. A slow 2nd saw Lakeside take a commanding lead, however the team rallied together and fought their way back bringing it in to a narrow 6 point margin.
Player of the game
Katie – Katie was incredible and raised the bar not just for herself, but what is expected from anyone wanting to play at this age group and level. She was everywhere, securing rebounds, blocking, intercepting, driving the ball through lakesides defense with ease. The highlight was Katie going to the line several times and making her free throws, her smile lit up the court and spurred on the entire team! Katie scored a season high of 11 points and even stayed out of foul trouble.
U18 Boys Black – Cooper Lowe (Sponsored by: Silverstone)
Won against Cockburn Cougars (84 – 66)
U18 Boys Orange – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: GJ Demo Pty Ltd)
Loss against Willetton Tigers (61 – 64)
Coaches notes
This was our first loss for the season, but it could have been a win quite easily, which is great news moving forward. We started off strong with a 10 point lead after the 1st quarter. With a number of players in foul trouble early on, we simply didn’t shoot well enough and this was our lowest shooting % this season. From the 2nd quarter onwards, it was a real battle and came down to the final seconds and we couldn’t get it done unfortunately.
Tom H ripped down 16 rebounds, Jarron worked hard with 7 rebounds and 12 points, Vinz had some strong moves to score 13 and Zakk came off the bench strong with 3 triples.
Player of the game
Thomas continues his strong season and wins Player of the Game with 8 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 blocks and 12 points
U18 Boys White – Rae D’Sylva
Loss against Perry Lakes Hawks (97 – 105)
Coaches notes
This week’s game was the best our side has performed with a few boys that performed well for most of the game. Our swarming defense enabled us to come from over 24 points down and almost get the win. Great signs as the boys are falling into their roles with an unfortunate start to the season with the loss of a few players due to injury before the first game.
Player of the game
Rajzhan D’Sylva. Rajzhan was incredible towards the end of the game and was one of the reason’s for our comeback on offence, especially towards the end of the game.
U18 Boys Blue – Bailey Ferguson (Sponsored by: Amy Jacobson Pty Ltd)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (80 -81)
Coaches notes
A heartbreaking loss for the boys after dominating for the majority of the game.
This team has really started to gel nicely which has shown in our last month of basketball, which is wonderful to see.
Some room for improvement on the free throw line this coming training.
Notable mentions
– Blake – what an outstanding young big man this club has, shows passion and heart every time he goes on the court.
– Justin – after some early struggles Justin is becoming the player we wanted scoring a team high 21 and being a driving force for our offence.
– Hunter – what more can I say this young man, week in week out he is showing why he has a big future ahead of him.
Player of the game
Aiden Scott is this weeks player of the game each week Aiden gains confidence in himself and his team scoring PB for the season and collecting plenty of rebounds, he was a standout in Sundays game. Well done Aiden!
U20 Boys Black – Lochy Brown
Loss against Lakeside Lightning (76 – 90)
Coaches notes
First loss of the season and we were just out played. All credit to Lakeside as they played up tempo right from the jump and didn’t let up at all. Our guards were under pressure all game defensively and it showed on the offensive end. Where normally we are quite composed, we were rushed and not ready to shoot the ball.
On the positive side, most adjustments we made throughout the game the players followed through on. Good to have a loss early in the season and we know where we need to get better.
Player of the game
Hudson Lowe – once again being a Swiss Army knife. Playing everywhere from the 1 – 5. Never dropping his head in the game and keeping the belief throughout the whole game that we would come out on top. A great player and a great team mate.
U21 Girls Black – Lizel Buckley
Won against Warwick Senators (97 – 55)
Coaches notes
Finally the team is coming together, only missing 3 players this week. We played like a team, worked hard in defense and really enjoyed playing together. Almost everyone hit the scoreboard. This team is going to be “Dangerous” when everyone is back 🙌🏽
Player of the game
Roxy Dagostino- She works really hard both ends of the court and it’s good to see her have a great game.