WABL Wrap Week 8 – 9/06/24
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:
Holly Marsh (U16 Girls) – This week POTR goes to a lady who got back to business from where she left off 7 weeks ago. Showing both poise and hunger on the offensive end plus added pressure and discipline on the defensive end covering our help rotations. Solid game today keeping us balanced at all times.
Congratulations Holly Marsh!
Max Klaproth (U14 Boys) – You’ll never see a DP play a better first WABL game!
U12 Girls Black – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: KTrans)
Won against East Perth Eagles (61 – 22)
Coaches notes – Coached by Ryan Breadsell
A great team effort saw the girls pull together in different lineups to secure a well deserved win.
We were able to switch up starting positions and run players through different roles so that we could build on skills and team objectives.
Great work to our starting 5 (Eunice, Sophie, May, Lailani and lead by Harper) to get us off to a commanding lead.
Special mention to Lily, Zoe and Mariska who brought intensity and drive from the bench to continue building a commanding lead.
Player of the game
Harper once again showed her flexibility across all areas of basketball. Being a leader, taking control of our defensive pressure and helping out players on and off court. Harper always chooses the right play, pass or shot. Cutting through the opposition and drawing defenders where needed then ripping a pass through the keyway for an easy assist. Well done Harper keep up your hard work.
U12 Girls Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge
(Sponsored by: Clever Fox Marketing)
Won against Lakeside Lightning (35 – 16)
U12 Girls White – Jemma Gartrell
Loss against Perth Redbacks (8 – 58)
U12 Boys Black – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: Fern Landscapes)
Won against Hills Raiders (80 – 31)
Coaches notes
We had an opportunity to put into practice some things we’ve been working on. For the most part, when we slowed the ball down and ran through our offence we were able to make good use of the space in the keyway and take it to the basket.
Hills had some strong moments where we found ourselves behind the ball and getting a bit complacent. Overall, the boys had an encouraging sense of team spirit today and brought the game home strong and with enthusiasm.
Player of the game
Player of the round goes to Fletcher. He found his rhythm this week and pulled in some tough rebounds. He was strong under the basket and kept his opponents on their toes.
U12 Boys Orange – Lizzie Falconbridge (Sponsored by: Alliance Engineering Consultants Pty Ltd)
Won against Perth Redbacks (60 – 47)
Coaches notes
Our seventh straight win now and the theme remains the same: strong defense and teamwork. After taking a one point lead into quarter time, we outscored the Redbacks 38 – 18 in the middle quarters for a cushion they couldn’t overcome. After a shaky start to the game, Levi Grey got us going with 12 of our 16 first quarter points. From there the defense was forcing turnovers and creating fast break opportunities which highlighted our running and team game. This was a super effort by all the boys on the road against the top team.
Player of the game
Levi Grey was on fire all game, finishing with an electric 26 points, to be our player of the game. Arona Gopolang also deserves mention for his stellar on-ball defense and constant drives putting pressure on the Redbacks defense.
U12 Boys White – Ben Marks (Sponsored by: Joel Dixon)
Loss against Rockingham Flames (44 – 81)
Coaches notes
The boys were locked in and ready to play after a Friday night training focusing on decision making under pressure. The boys responded well against a big, strong opponent but the story of the game came down to missed opportunities. What became frustrating to the team was that we had equal the amount of scoring opportunities as our opponent but were unable to finish, with Rockingham taking the lead into quarter time. The second quarter was a different story as we were able to convert at a higher percentage, winning the quarter 16 to 11. Our intensity, ball movement and decision making were of high quality, although our finishing was not what we needed. The third quarter again was won by our opponent by a margin before we came out in the 4th quarter and had another strong showing, almost reaching our goal of winning the quarter.
The coaching staff are very pleased with the development of the players, improving in certain aspects each week. We have all the tools and potential in place to really have a strong second half of the season and sneak some wins. It was great to see some of the things we have been focusing on in training coming out in the games. It was a very even performance from the entire squad with one main standout performance, so it was hard to ignore him for player of the game.
Player of the game
Lucas Bickmore has been a rock for us this season on the defensive end game in and game out. The past few games have seen his offensive game really develop and he has shown confidence on that end, scoring 18 points for the game to go with his defensive stops and rebounds. It has really been great seeing a first season WABL player really develop into a two-way threat on the court.
U12 Boys Blue – Declan Kinsella
Loss against Warwick Senators (32 – 59)
U14 Girls Black – Bruno Kongawoin
(Sponsored by: SupaFit Seat Covers Pty Ltd)
Won against Hills Raiders (71 – 27)
Coaches notes
Given our challenges with a skeleton team and no team training session leading into the game, despite these obstacles, we secured our largest margin of victory to date, reflecting the girls’ growing maturity to bounce back from last week’s loss.
Our relentless focus on fundamentals and individual tactics paid off, as we significantly reduced our turnovers, creating numerous opportunities to capitalise in the open court. Our defense continues to be our greatest strength, and we will continue building on this foundation moving forward.
With Neve Spry unavailable this week, Chelsea Parker, Leah Darroch, and Finley Edwards stepped up admirably, filling the gap with their remarkable performances.
Benny Kuach was outstanding, leading the team on both ends of the court with a phenomenal contribution of 31 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 steals.
Amber Brickwood once again proved her worth with exceptional on-ball defense and help defense, along with standout offensive rebounding, which enabled her to contribute a respectable 12 points.
Poppy Hickson’s growing confidence was evident as she skillfully maneuvered the ball from one end of the court to the other for a layup. It is an encouragement to see her touching and attempting to snatch any loose ball in the air.
Abigail Allan maintained a quiet but steady presence, and we anticipate significant contributions from her as we approach the final rounds.
We are preparing to face the South West Slammers this coming Sunday. Although the Slammers have yet to secure a win, they have been putting up strong numbers on the scoreboard. Our focus will be on enhancing our defensive strategies to conclude the first half of the season on a high note.
Player of the game
Poppy Hickson has been voted the player of the week. Her progress has been nothing short of impressive. Poppy’s ability to remain focused and aggressive on the court is commendable. Coaching her is a joy, and I eagerly anticipate her continued development throughout the season. Well done Poppy…
U14 Girls Orange – Lawrence West (Sponsored by: Genesis Craft)
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (50 – 39)
Coaches notes
Last time we met Perry Lakes we didn’t play to our potential so this week was an opportunity to prove ourselves. Hawks certainly weren’t on board with this plan and came out strong.
Every basket was earned and nothing came easy. The game was within a couple of points at every break and well into the 4th quarter we were tied 39 all.
Then something changed and the girls decided it was time to win. Our defense was suffocating. Every pass, catch & shot was contested and we played with an intensity that the Hawks just couldn’t match. An 11 – 0 run saw us close out the game in style.
Every week we get a little more resilient and better at adjusting to whatever comes our way. This week with 3 players fouling out we were certainly tested, and I was very pleased to see us come together and do what needed to be done.
Player of the game
Talei McCauley – In the 4th quarter when her team needed her, Talei stepped up big. She challenged every shot at the basket while playing some very disciplined defense.
This is Talei’s first season in WABL and her progress has been amazing. She rises to every challenge set and as her confidence grows we are just starting to see her potential. Well done mate I look forward to seeing what you can accomplish this year.
U14 Girls White (Rick Anderson)
Won against Warwick Senators (38 – 33)
U14 Girls Blue – Adam Chambers
(Sponsored by: Newtrend IT Specialists Pty Ltd)
Won against Hills Raiders (46 – 23)
Coaches notes
Coach Adam was in charge today and he had the girls fired up to play. The 1st quarter was a tussle with both teams trying to get into the game. We had lots of scoring opportunities but unfortunately couldn’t make our shots.
2nd and 3rd quarter were much the same, lots of opportunities but not enough scores going in. Luckily for us, our defense held up and we won both the quarters.
An inspiring team talk by Adam at 3/4 time lifted the girls and they played one of their best quarters of basketball this season, winning the quarter 20-4.
Abby was outstanding again at both ends of the court, pressuring the ball in defense and finding space on offence.
Imogen made us a better team when she was on the court, we controlled the ball better and she played great defense.
Indigo had one of her best games, keeping her hands out in defense while still pressuring the ball and creating tons of scoring opportunities in offence.
Bob was outstanding on the boards, grabbing lots of rebounds and making early passes up the court to our outlet players. She moved the ball well in offence and made lots of walls in defense.
Player of the game
Sarah has been building her game every week and is always in the top 3-4 players. This week she took it to another level and was everywhere in offence and defense. She was getting rebounds, blocks, steals, interceptions, putbacks, fast breaks and many wall ups.
Superb effort to also increase her fitness to stay on the court longer.
Keep up the hard work Sarah!
U14 Boys Black – Adrian Mok (Sponsored by: SWISH Plan Management)
Loss against Willetton Tigers (42 – 77)
U14 Boys Orange – Patrick Massam (Sponsored by: Pacific Automation Pty Ltd)
Won against Mandurah Magic (77 – 66)
U14 Boys White – Joel Warner
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (63 – 67)
Coaches notes
Another tough game against (probably) the equal best Team in our Division. We started slowly and we needed to burn a time-out quickly in the first quarter to settle the nerves. Not our usual start. However, we regrouped quickly and won the first and second quarters. We narrowly lost the third quarter (by one point) and were, unfortunately steamrolled in the fourth quarter. The fourth quarter represents an important milestone, not just in the game, but in our season. We improved our scoring return in the fourth quarter, which was a focus area from last week, but it was at the expense of quality ball management and not stopping Joondalup in transition. Joondalup, to their credit found an extra gear and we couldn’t absorb their transition pace… perhaps it was the clean hills air, I’m not sure, but they were the better Team this week. This loss stings a little (and it should) but we will find something in the fourth quarter errors to improve upon so that we succeed next time.
As noted, the fourth quarter this week is a key milestone because it’s the first time we’ve repeated the same errors two weeks in a row. So, it’s important that we address some small matters before they become basketball habits. Every WABL season has its peaks and troughs and as long as we make the corrections on Tuesday at practice, and implement them on Sunday, we will bounce back quickly. Coach James and I saw some of our best execution this week and we are confident in our game-style holding up against the best Clubs. We will simplify a few things defensively to manage the fourth quarter pressure that has caused us to stumble. We will also keep the communication standard as high as we can, so we can cover for each-other when defensive breakdowns occur. Stick with this group people – they’re little battlers and will bounce back!
Player of the game
We had mixed effort in certain situations this week, which hurt us a little, however Coach James and I could not fault the effort of Billy. As I’ve said before, the big guy loves to communicate, and is very useful in keeping everyone accountable on the court. Billy carried some of the load on Sunday, top scoring with 14 and equal top rebounding with six boards. Quite importantly, he was our most effective off-ball screener as well. Billy is building his resilience and has a genuine desire to protect the little guys, like Reuben, Sam, and Chad. Every successful Team has a series of role players and Billy is taking on the role of Team communicator and big brother. We need that… and Billy should be credited with player of the round this week for his effort. Well done Billy.
U14 Boys Blue – Yi Gan (Sponsored by: Excess Power Equipment)
Won against Southwest Slammers (62 – 31)
Coaches notes
We had a couple of our starters out this game. Noah and Atticus both missed the travel to Bunbury, but this gave Max Klaproth a chance to play his first WABL game.
Since it’s a 2.5-hour drive, I decided to give all players equal playing time. It’s not fair for players and parents to travel over 2 hours for just a few minutes on the court. At this age, we should enjoy these games, even far from home.
With Atticus feeling a bit sick, we had 9 players, and each one was allocated around 16-18 minutes of playtime.
However, as the game progressed our injury updates were:
Jesse – Migraine
Isaac Falconbridge – Bruised Heel (Out for 4th qrt)
Kobe – Received a hard hit.
We definitely had our fair share of hurdles this week, but it gave other boys a chance to step up.
Everyone had a specific role to play. Isaac Falconbridge took on the main ball-handling duties with Atticus out. Kobe came off the bench to boost our offense and feed the bigs.
Adam, as usual, was our main rebounder and performed great in the paint.
Christian and Isaac T played their best games yet, reducing turnovers and improving ball handling.
Jesse played well, showing what we expect from him, especially impressive given he had a migraine.
Lukas had one of his best games, rebounding well and attacking the rim more aggressively.
The game really belonged to Max Klaproth. When I first saw Max at trials, he had a lot of potential but lacked conditioning. This game, he showed why I had high hopes for him.
Fast forward to today, he has worked hard on his fitness and was able to play half the game and most of the 4th qrt. For the first time all season, we won the rebounding battle even when Adam was off the court. Max was hustling, crashing every missed shot, and diving on the floor. It’s fulfilling to see him come so far in such a short time.
In his first WABL game, Max was outstanding. We fed him the ball at the elbow towards the end, and he attacked the rim every time, drawing up to three defenders by the fourth or fifth attempt.
He’s earned the player of the game this week.
This group of 12 boys is truly special. Their love for each other and their drive to win together as a team is incredible.
No one cares about their own scoring or stats or about being the “Star”. You can feel the love on the bench. This team is one I will cherish, and I hope the boys know how special this group is. It’s an absolute privilege to be part of this team with Mark Bydder. It’ll be a sad day when the season ends. Until then, I know we won’t take the rest of the season for granted. The parents all gel and support each other too, which flows through to the boys.
Player of the game
Max Klaproth! you’ll never see a DP play a better first WABL game.
U16 Girls Black – Stewart Winsor & Elijah Gray
Won against Hills Raiders (73 – 51)
Coaches notes
Today’s game started very scrappy and the first quarter was very tight while both teams worked each other out. The girls kept the Raiders to their target score of 10 but couldn’t score at the other end.
The girls were trying out a new full court press and they were working it out as they went. When we were in the right spots it worked very well and we scored lots of quick points and stopped the Raiders from scoring.
As per our normal pattern of play, the more we scored the more the other team scored. Higher effort in defense is needed when we are doing well and not let the other team stay in the match.
Lots of positives to be taken out of the match. Isla was again dangerous in defense, always pressuring the ball and looking to dictate the other team.
Kaia was dominating in offence and put a lot of scores on the board which helped us keep the scoring going.
Asha and George were strong in defense and tried their hardest to keep up the defensive pressure.
Player of the game
Charlie is the definition of Energy, Effort and Attitude, always giving 100% in offence and defense. Charlie is always looking for the best option and always putting her body on the line. She is always the first person to the game warming up and last one to leave. Charlie got her shot and finishing back, that she has been missing the last couple weeks, which comes from hard work and dedication to improving.
U16 Girls Orange – Andrew Herbert
Won against Willetton Tigers (58 – 50)
Coaches notes
This was a game where all players needed to step up and step up is what they all did.
We were really impressed with how each player of the squad was able to stick to the game plan and make adjustments when required. The ladies were able to keep the lead at the end of each quarter from high percentage shots, with some of them coming from their high pressure defense.
All players contributed today in multiple ways and it was a great game by all, coming TOGETHER to get the W.
Olivia Geary 17pts – Carmen Woods 14pts
Holly Marsh 13pts – Malia Williams 9pts
Player of the game
This week POTR goes to a lady who got back to business from where she left off 7 weeks ago. Showing both poise and hunger on the offensive end plus added pressure and discipline on the defensive end covering our help rotations. Solid game today keeping us balanced at all times.
Congratulations Holly Marsh!
U16 Girls White – Daniel Heyman
Loss against Warwick Senators (46 – 85)
Coaches notes
The girls brought the intensity early and played well to stay in touch for half of the first quarter. Their intentions to stick to our structures and work for great shots was noticeable. As the game wore on, we got rushed and had to find our way back to playing with greater purpose and structure.
At the half, the girls were asked to soul-search and discuss how they planned on playing better basketball. Their plan worked. The second half was much more competitive and representative of how we can all pull together and compete.
Player of the game
Ella Michalczuk: Ella was a dominant force at both ends. The numbers speak for themselves. 21 points, 14 rebounds, 3 blocks, 4 steals and 2 assists. She really turned it on in the second half, leading our team’s late surge with her trademark energy and determination. Amazing work, Ella!
U16 Boys Black – Declan Kinsella
(Sponsored by: Angus Flexible Pipelines Australia Pty Ltd)
Loss against Warwick Senators (71 – 78)
Coaches notes
In a heart-wrenching battle on the court, the game between us and the Warwick Senators concluded with a disappointing loss by 7 points. Despite leading into the pivotal fourth quarter, we couldn’t hold on, witnessing their lead slip away in the final minutes of the game. The Senators’ relentless determination and strategic maneuvers proved too much to handle, leaving us grappling with a bitter taste of defeat. Though defeated, we can draw inspiration from their resilience and use this setback as fuel for future triumphs on the hardwood.
Player of the game
Jackson McClure – Jackson has been relentless in his pursuit of improvement over this WABL season, and makes so many things we do as a team work, through his rebounding and ability to finish on the basket, Jackson keeps us ticking over possession to possession
U16 Boys Orange – Hayden Bird
Loss against Southwest Slammers (52 – 84)
Coaches notes
Even with a slow start to the game, we saw the boys overall play together as a collective much better, playing very unselfish basketball. Even with the score being against them, the boys showed levels of resilience to push through and finish the game out.
Player of the game
Aiden Avila: Every week Aiden will go under the radar being very quiet in his success’s. It is always noted by his coaches what he does out on the court for his team, being able to guard every position and as an under sized big, grabbing rebounds and being strong, he is certainly a big part of our team. Great job Aiden.
U16 Boys White – Thor Amundsen
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (67 – 74)
Coaches notes
Joondalup are the current top team in the league, yet to lose a game, so we knew we were up for a challenge. We applied great pressure throughout which kept it a tight game but unfortunately we were unable to execute our structures consistently enough to get the W.
Player of the game
Hudson Anton was our player of the game, never backing down and coming up strong when we needed him. His versatility and work rate were excellent.
U16 Boys Blue – Derek Quayle
Loss against Perth Redbacks (49 – 106)
Coaches notes
This game was the best that I have seen the team play from an effort perspective. I honestly don’t feel the Redbacks played better than us. Our defensive pressure was excellent, but today was a day when we just couldn’t put the ball in the hoop. Without exaggerating, I believe we must have missed about 20 – 30 shots that we should expect to make.
Sandrae and Jacob battled all day and scored 16 and 10 points respectively.
Player of the game
Sandrae gets the player of the game this week, his defensive pressure was excellent and he also finished with 16 points.
U18 Girls Black – Rick Batista
Loss against Cockburn Cougars (64 – 71)
Coaches notes
With 30 uncharacteristic turnovers, foul trouble, a super late 6:45pm game and trouble rebounding the ball, we only lost by 7. Our offence wasn’t what it usually is as we tried too much one on five. Given all that, we were buoyed with our effort and desire to still will ourselves over the line as a group. Cockburn jumped out to a 16 point lead at one stage and we fought hard to drag it back.
Player of the game
Ana Vletter was wonderful, again plays defense like her life depends on it and is always saving the team on numerous plays. But it’s her offence that is really starting to shine. Ana is now confidently driving through crowds finishing and ones, and hitting threes. It’s great to see her confidence growing week in and out. Well done Ana.
U18 Girls Orange – Charlie Smart (Sponsored by: Parker Crofts & Co)
Loss against Joondalup Wolves (64 – 68)
Coaches notes
Still battling through and managing injuries, overall the team is going from strength to strength every week. They displayed brilliant dominance from ball up, working together, executing their offensive structures, and their communication was the best so far which saw a very strong defensive line, limiting Wolves to a mere 4 points for the quarter.
Wolves increased the pressure and we finished the half level before a point for point battle ensued. A few unfortunate turnovers allowed Wolves to pull away to a 12 point lead with 35secs left.
We took advantage of a quick timeout and reset and with their heads lifted, the team executed exactly what was needed to open up an uncontested 3 point shot for Missy who had been on fire all game, which she nailed. The full court team pressure saw a steal and another 2 points secured bringing it down to a 7 point game.
With only a few seconds left on the clock, the families and bench on their feet spurring the girls on, another steal and free throw before the final whistle reduced the deficit to a mere 4 points and showed the team “WHY” you never concede until that final whistle.
Everyone had numbers on the scoreboard this week which is accredited to their unselfish style of play.
Player of the game
Alex – A quiet start turned into us seeing just how incredibly talented Alex is. Not just in skill but her understanding of the game by slowing it down, setting up her team mates and assists made her an invaluable asset once again.
U18 Boys Black – Cooper Lowe (Sponsored by: Silverstone)
Loss against Willetton Tigers (74 – 109)
U18 Boys Orange – Brad Dowd (Sponsored by: GJ Demo Pty Ltd)
Loss against East Perth Eagles (69 – 78)
Coaches notes
Wasn’t our best game, but what a great 3rd quarter! We had a terrible first half being down by 18 points at half time, but the boys rallied together to be tied at the end of the 3rd. The battle continued into the 4th, however we didn’t do enough to get the win. We will regroup at training.
U18 Boys White – Rae D’Sylva
Won against Rockingham Flames (89 – 76)
Coaches notes
This week we had strong performances on offence and defense from the boys. They executed what we are working towards at training during the game and their intensity was there from the start of the game. The shot selection and decision making has improved from a few players which contributed towards less turnovers.
Player of the game
Alireza Eghbal . Ali was all hustle this week and his presence on the defensive end was huge also contributing towards rebounds and points on offence.
U18 Boys Blue – Bailey Ferguson (Sponsored by: Amy Jacobson Pty Ltd)
Won against Perry Lakes Hawks (116 -89)
Coaches notes
What an incredible turnaround, the first time we played this team we lost by 24, to come out today and play 4 good quarters of basketball and win by 27 is amazing! This team is gelling before our eyes and it’s great to be a part of it.
I feel like I keep repeating myself but this team is gaining momentum every week. Well done boys!
FIRE UP
Notable mentions:
Hunter – He’s ever reliable and I can trust him to play any position at anytime. A great asset to have on our team.
Jurahan – We joke about it, but he takes a while to get warm and find a rhythm. But once he does, he is a fine talent and an offensive machine.
Assistant Coach Brock (Pies) – Had to tell him to calm down a couple times, but he’s my right hand man and I absolutely enjoy sharing this journey with him.
Player of the game
Justin Morgan – It takes a special talent to get B2B POTG but this young man has grown before our eyes. He’s entrusted his teammates, his coaches and most importantly, himself and we are now able to watch the talented player we know he is!!
A massive 43 points, 7 triples and multiple dimes. A truly talented player!!!
Well done Justin.
U20 Boys Black – Lochy Brown
Won against Perth Redbacks (98 – 87)
Coaches notes
Expanding our offence and moving the ball efficiently were the goals of the game and we are slowly working towards making this more consistent. When the team goes east to west and attack the ring with purpose, we look in control of the game. Apart from a few stand out 1 on 1 defenders, as a team we are falling short on defense. This will be the focus moving forward.
Player of the game
Michael Luce – the train on spot is misunderstood and often times looked down on. However already having multiple injuries early this year, Michael has stepped into the team and embraced any role.
After not playing at all until the last 5 minutes of the game, Michael was still cheering and supporting his team from the bench and being involved. And when he got his chance, he didn’t complain. He attacked the game head-on. He has earned the trust of both me and his teammates and is a shining example of a true team player.
U21 Girls Black – Lizel Buckley
Won against Lakeside Lightning (91 – 72)
Coaches notes
After everyone attending training, it showed on the court. We came out with lots of energy and willing to play as a team. The chemistry is building and I couldn’t be more proud of the girls. One big positive is everyone scored in the game 🙌🏽
Player of the game
2 Nominations this Round-
Skye Thomas- Her ability to create for herself and her teammates was overwhelming. Skye had one of her best games this season.
Roxy Dagostino- Roxy works hard both ends of the floor all game. She is new to the club, but she is fitting in well with the team.