NBL One Round 29 of Regular Season

Here is the last round review presented by Job Market.

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Buccaneers as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Buccaneers defeated 3rd placed Wanneroo in Wonthella 100-89. Geraldton B. outrebounded Joondalup W. 45-32 including a 34-23 advantage in defensive rebounds. Geraldton B. looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Nikolas DeSantis (-1998) who scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!). American forward Joshua Keyes (201-1995, college: Muskingum) chipped in 18 points and 11 rebounds. Buccaneers' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Caleb Davis (206-1995, college: SVSU) produced 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists for the guests. Buccaneers have a solid series of four victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Maitland. Joondalup W. at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with S.Adelaide P. and Manly Warr.. Joondalup W. will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest in order to get back on the winning path. Geraldton B. will try to continue on its current victory against eleventh ranked Perth R. in Northbridge.
The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Forestville Eagles (9-2) in Goodwood. Hosts were defeated by Sturt Sabres (9-2) 111-98. It ended at the same time the nine-game winning streak of Forestville Eagles. It was a key game for the top position in the league. American guard Jordan Forbes (193-1998, college: Salem) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Jacob Rigoni contributed with 32 points for the winners. Sturt Sabres' coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. point guard Adam Doyle (176-1991) answered with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) for Forestville E.Sturt S. keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Forestville E. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
A very close game took place in Bendigo between Ballarat Miners and Bendigo Braves. First ranked Ballarat Miners (10-3) got a very close victory on the road over 13th ranked Bendigo Braves (6-9). Ballarat Miners managed to escape with a 1-point win 76-75 on Saturday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Majok Majok stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds for the winners. Ballarat Miners' coach Luke Brennan used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Mitchell Clarke responded with 22 points and 5 rebounds. Ballarat Miners have a solid series of three victories in a row. Ballarat M. maintains first place with 10-3 record, which they share with BA CoE. Loser Bendigo Braves dropped to the fourteenth position with nine games lost. They share it with Ringwood. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.

Other games of round 29 were quite predictable and ended without any surprises. Here they are:
Eastern M. was crushed by C.District L. in Gawler 107-83. N.Adelaide R. was beaten by Norwood F. at home 106-119. Woodville W. was destroyed by W.Adelaide B. on the opponent's court 111-83. Southern T. unfortunately lost to S.Adelaide P. in a home game 64-79. Winless Hornsby S. was rolled over Inner WB on the road 87-128. Penrith was crushed by BA CoE on its own court 70-96. Sutherland beat Bankstown B. in a road game 92-77. Illawarra H. 2 lost to Newcastle F. at home 82-95. Manly Warr. was outscored by Maitland on the opponent's court 73-96. Cent.Coast C. recorded a loss to Albury W.B. in a home game 97-101. Canberra G. defeated Norths B. on the road 83-72. Gold Coast R. beat Ipswich F. on its own court 76-70. Darwin S. won against Rockhampton in a road game 112-105. SW Metro P. managed to outperform NGC Seahawks at home 85-69. Townsville H. was rolled over USC Rip on the opponent's court 91-65. SD Spartans crushed Cairns M. in a home game 92-65. Eltham W. was beaten by Diamond V.E. on the road 87-80. Knox R. won against Kilsyth C. on its own court 99-84. Ringwood unfortunately lost to Frankston B. in Seaford 70-88. Melbourne T. recorded a loss to Keilor T. at home 69-82. Waverley F. defeated Nunawading S. on the opponent's court 104-91. Mandurah smashed SW Slammers in a home game 129-85. Rockingham F. was destroyed by Goldfields G. on the road 97-73.
The best stats of 29th round was 26 points and 7 rebounds by Randy Bell of Goldfields G..

Group Central

Forestville E. - Sturt S. 98-111

The most crucial game of the last round was a loss of Forestville Eagles (9-2) in Goodwood. Hosts were defeated by Sturt Sabres (9-2) 111-98. It ended at the same time the nine-game winning streak of Forestville Eagles. It was a key game for the top position in the league. Sturt S. made 24-of-31 charity shots (77.4 percent) during the game. Their players were unselfish on offense dishing 24 assists. American guard Jordan Forbes (193-1998, college: Salem) orchestrated the victory by scoring 25 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists. Naturalized Italian forward Jacob Rigoni (198-1998, college: Quinnipiac) contributed with 32 points for the winners. Sturt Sabres' coach allowed to play the deep bench players saving starting five for next games. Point guard Adam Doyle (176-1991) answered with 29 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists (was perfect 9-for-9 from the free throw line !!!) and American forward Greg Mays (203-1993, college: Green Bay) added 17 points and 6 rebounds in the effort for Forestville E.Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Sturt S. keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Forestville E. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Sturt S.: J.Rigoni 32+3reb+3ast, J.Forbes 25+7reb+9ast, J.Smith 15+1reb, B.Griscti 14+6reb+2ast, S.Daly 10+5reb+8ast, D.Nash 4+2reb
Forestville E.: A.Doyle 29+5reb+6ast, G.Mays 17+6reb, D.Johnson 13+4reb, U.Dibiamaka 12+7reb+2ast, S.Gould 11+2reb+1ast, B.Rathjen 8+4reb

C.District L. - Eastern M. 107-83

Everything could happen in Gawler at the game between two tied teams. Both sixth ranked Central District Lions and 7th ranked Eastern Mavericks had identical 4-6 record. This time Central District Lions used a home court advantage and crushed the opponent from Mt. Barker 107-83 on Saturday night. C.District L. outrebounded Eastern M. 52-32 including a 32-21 advantage in defensive rebounds. C.District L. looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. American forward Magnus Richards (198-1994, college: Midwestern St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 30 points and 11 rebounds (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field) for the winners and his fellow American import swingman Branden Jenkins (196-1994, college: TxWes, agency: AltusBasket) chipped in 26 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals. Jenkins is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Guard Brandon Edwards (188-2001) responded with 18 points (on 6-of-7 shooting from the field) and American center Lachie Hunter (-1999, college: Ohlone CC) scored 5 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists. Five C.District L. and four Eastern M. players scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Central District Lions have a solid series of three victories in a row. C.District L. (5-6) moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Eastern M. lost sixth consecutive game. They dropped to the eighth position with seven games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
C.District L.: M.Richards 30+11reb, B.Jenkins 26+7reb+4ast, K.Sapwell 16+8reb+6ast, A.Day 12+3reb+1ast, M.Manyng 11+7reb+3ast, C.Jewell 4+7reb+1ast
Eastern M.: B.Edwards 18+2reb+1ast, F.Webb 14+2reb+3ast, J.Rawls 14+4reb+1ast, M.Nuangki 14+4reb+2ast, M.Mee 7+2reb, M.Newbern 6+8reb+2ast

N.Adelaide R. - Norwood F. 106-119

No shocking result in a game in Greenacres where seventh ranked Norwood Flames (5-6) defeated 9th ranked North Adelaide Rockets (2-9) 119-106 on Saturday. Norwood F. forced 21 N.Adelaide R. turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 27 assists. New Zealand point guard Jack Stanwix (183-2000) stepped up and scored 26 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and point guard Cooper Osborne (183-2004) chipped in 22 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists. American guard Durrell McDonald (188-1994, college: Mercyhurst) responded with 29 points and 7 rebounds and center Steven Parfitt (-2002) produced a double-double by scoring 16 points and 18 rebounds. Both teams had five players each who scored in double figures. Norwood F. moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser North Adelaide Rockets keeps the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with Southern T.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Norwood F.: J.Stanwix 26+7reb+6ast, J.Hemphill 23+7reb+1ast, R.Harrap 23+3reb+6ast, C.Osborne 22+9reb+5ast, D.Webber 11+5reb+3ast, I.Miller-Jose 10+14reb+3ast
N.Adelaide R.: D.McDonald 29+7reb+3ast, K.McCalop 21+10reb+1ast, S.Parfitt 16+18reb+1ast, Y.Clay 12+6reb+3ast, R.Crawford 12+5reb+7ast, J.Sangster 9+4ast

W.Adelaide B. - Woodville W. 111-83

Everything could happen at the game between two tied teams. Both fifth ranked Bearcats and 4th placed Woodville Warriors had identical 5-5 record. This time Bearcats used a home court advantage and rolled over the opponent from Flinders Park 111-83 on Saturday night. W.Adelaide B. had a 36-24 advantage in offensive rebounds. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 33 assists comparing to just 13 passes made by Woodville W.'s players. The former international forward Akoldah Gak (208-2002) stepped up and scored 37 points (!!!) and 9 rebounds for the winners and forward Fabijan Krslovic (203-1995, college: Montana) chipped in 26 points, 12 rebounds and 9 assists. Four Bearcats players scored in double figures. American guard Sharif Black (185-1996, college: Bemidji St.) responded with 32 points and center Devon McGee (205-1996) scored 8 points and 6 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. W.Adelaide B. (6-5) moved-up to fourth place. Loser Woodville Warriors dropped to the fifth position with six games lost. They share it with 3 other teams. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
W.Adelaide B.: A.Gak 37+9reb+3ast, F.Krslovic 26+12reb+9ast, S.Stock 22+4reb+3ast, M.Djeric 10+10reb+12ast, H.Bruce 5+1reb, H.Staude 3+1reb+1ast
Woodville W.: S.Black 32+3reb+1ast, N.Wurm 8+3reb, R.Meldrum 8+4reb+1ast, D.McGee 8+6reb+1ast, U.Dibiamaka 6+1reb+2ast, Z.De Witt 6+1reb+2ast

Southern T. - S.Adelaide P. 64-79

Very predictable result in Morphett Vale where third ranked South Adelaide Panthers (8-3) beat 9th ranked Noarlunga City Southern Tigers (2-9) 79-64 on Saturday. S.Adelaide P. forced 20 Southern T. turnovers. American forward Alexander Starling (198-1989, college: BCU) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 19 points and 10 rebounds for the winners and his fellow American import guard Jeremy Smith (190-1991, college: Nicholls) chipped in 19 points. Guard Harvey White (191-2005) responded with 19 points and 8 rebounds and Azerbaijani power forward Michael Diggins (205-1998, college: UIC, agency: Elevate Sports Alliance) scored 11 points and 6 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. S.Adelaide P. maintains third place with 8-3 record having six points less than leader Sturt S., which they share with Joondalup W. and Manly Warr. Southern T. lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the ninth position with nine games lost. They share it with N.Adelaide R.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
S.Adelaide P.: A.Starling 19+10reb+2ast, J.Smith 19+3reb+2ast, T.Kubank 11+4reb+3ast, A.Barton 9+1reb, J.Hoppo 7+1reb+1ast, C.Scott 6+3reb+4ast
Southern T.: H.White 19+8reb+3ast, R.Miller 13+2reb+2ast, M.Diggins 11+6reb+2ast, E.Kristiansen 8+2reb+2ast, I.Abergut 7+8reb+1ast, C.Artacho 4+2reb+1ast

Group East

Inner WB - Hornsby S. 128-87

Not a big story in a game in Inner West where bottom-ranked Spiders (0-14) were outplayed by fifth ranked Bulls (9-5) 128-87 on Saturday. Inner WB dominated down low during the game scoring 72 of its points in the paint compared to Spiders's 44. Inner WB forced 22 Hornsby S. turnovers. They shot the lights out from three sinking 13 long-distance shots on high 54.2 percentage. Inner WB looked well-organized offensively handing out 25 assists comparing to just 10 passes made by Hornsby S.'s players. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Inner WB made 7 blocks. Central African forward Alex Higgins-Titsha (197-2000) stepped up and scored 24 points and 8 rebounds for the winners and Jacob Ohmer chipped in 22 points and 5 assists. Five Bulls players scored in double figures. Brian Ansuh-Yeboah responded with 24 points and guard Steven Hall (180) scored 20 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Inner WB moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Loser Spiders still closes the standings with 14 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Inner WB: A.Higgins-Titsha 24+8reb+3ast, J.Ohmer 22+3reb+5ast, R.Cao 20+5reb+1ast, T.Tolovae 17+7reb+1ast, Z.Hudson 17+6reb+3ast, J.Mei-Edwards 9+2reb+4ast
Hornsby S.: B.Ansuh-Yeboah 24+2reb+1ast, S.Hall 20+3reb+1ast, A.Redhead 12+6reb+2ast, N.Chappell 7+3reb, K.Finch 6+1reb, I.Walter 6+2reb+2ast

Penrith P. - BA CoE 70-96

Everything went according to plan in Penrith where third ranked Excellence (10-3) outleveled 15th ranked Panthers (1-12) 96-70 on Saturday. BA CoE outrebounded Penrith 50-39 including 36 on the defensive glass. BA CoE shot the lights out from three sinking 14 long-distance shots on high 51.9 percentage. Jacob Furphy (196-2006) stepped up and scored 14 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Kye Savage (186-2005) chipped in 15 points and 5 rebounds. Swingman Joshua Kalwy (196-1999) responded with 10 points and 8 rebounds and guard Benjamin Kearins (190-1994) scored 11 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Excellence have an impressive series of nine victories in a row. BA CoE keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Ballarat M. Penrith lost ninth consecutive game. They keep the fifteenth place with 12 games lost. BA CoE will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Penrith will play against Hills H. (#7) in Baulkham Hills and hope to win that game.
Top scorers:
BA CoE: K.Savage 15+5reb+2ast, J.Furphy 14+6reb+2ast, O.Goodman 14+6reb, E.Adair 13+6reb, D.Daniels 8+4reb+1ast, S.Pilimai 8+4reb+1ast
Penrith P.: Z.Evans 11+4reb+4ast, B.Kearins 11+5reb+5ast, J.McWilliams 10+7reb+1ast, J.Kalwy 10+8reb+3ast, C.Fetui-Fa'amoe 6+5reb, J.Fetui-Fa'amoe 6+3reb+1ast

Bankstown B. - Sutherland S. 77-92

There was an upset in Condell Park where higher ranked Bankstown Bruins (7-6) were defeated by eleventh ranked Sutherland Sharks (5-6) 92-77 on Saturday. Guard Lochlan Hutchison (188-1999) stepped up and scored 19 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and swingman Adrian Cabrera (-1995) chipped in 20 points and 4 assists. American forward Naaman Hightower (201-1994, college: Sonoma St.) responded with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Hayden Blankley (198-2000, college: WTA&M) scored 15 points and 5 rebounds. Five Sutherland and four Bankstown B. players scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Sutherland moved-up to fifth place, which they share with 3 other teams. Loser Bankstown Bruins dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Sutherland will meet Cent.Coast C. (#13) in the next round and are hoping to win another game. Bankstown B. will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Sutherland S.: B.Williams 23+3reb, A.Cabrera 20+3reb+4ast, L.Hutchison 19+5reb+7ast, C.Norris 12+2reb, G.Gerlach 12+9reb+4ast, A.Lake 6+5reb+1ast
Bankstown B.: H.Blankley 15+5reb+3ast, N.Hightower 15+8reb+5ast, T.Buvac 14+3reb+6ast, C.Mcbeath 12+2reb, S.Saipaia 9+3reb+2ast, A.Wolford 7+3reb+2ast

Illawarra H. 2 - Newcastle F. 82-95

No shocking result in a game in Wollongong where twelfth ranked Falcons (5-8) defeated 14th ranked Hawks (2-11) 95-82 on Saturday. Newcastle F. dominated down low during the game scoring 58 of its points in the paint compared to Hawks's 34. Newcastle F. outrebounded Illawarra H. 2 45-29 including 30 on the defensive glass. Newcastle F. looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Forward Myles Cherry (203-1998, college: Lafayette) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 25 points and 16 rebounds for the winners and naturalized British forward Ryan Beisty (200-1995, college: Regis Univ.) chipped in 25 points and 8 rebounds. Falcons' coach used a ten-player rotation and allowed the starting five to rest. Philip Dopud (-2002) responded with 21 points and 8 rebounds and American point guard Matt Frierson (185-1997, college: Citadel) scored 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Five Illawarra H. 2 players scored in double figures. Newcastle F. maintains twelfth place with 5-8 record. Loser Hawks keeps the fourteenth position with 11 games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Newcastle F.: M.Cherry 25+16reb+1ast, R.Beisty 25+8reb+3ast, F.Mulvihill 14+6reb+7ast, K.Shannon 12+2ast, L.O'Boyle 7+4reb+4ast, J.Smith 4+9reb+1ast
Illawarra H. 2: P.Dopud 21+8reb+2ast, R.Abercrombie 17+2reb+2ast, M.Frierson 15+5reb+4ast, B.Ballinger 12+4reb, J.Smith 10+5reb, P.Lancaster 5+2reb+3ast

Maitland M. - Manly Warr. 96-73

Very expected game in Maitland where 6th ranked Manly Warringah Sea Eagles (8-3) were rolled over by second ranked Mustangs (11-1) 96-73 on Saturday. Maitland dominated down low during the game scoring 70 of its points in the paint compared to Manly Warringah Sea Eagles's 40. Maitland had a 29-18 advantage in offensive rebounds. Great defensive blocking was one of the keys in this match when Maitland made 8 blocks. Swingman Will Cranston-Lown (185-2000, college: Regis Univ.) stepped up and scored 23 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and forward Matt Gray (203-1999) chipped in 22 points and 7 rebounds. Four Mustangs players scored in double figures. New Zealand point guard Mason Bragg (182-1993) responded with 14 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists and American forward Matthew Eldridge (203-1996, college: Lindsey Wilson) scored 16 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Mustangs have a solid series of four victories in a row. Maitland keeps a position of league leader, which they share with Geraldton B. Loser Manly Warringah Sea Eagles dropped to the third place with three games lost. They share the position with Joondalup W. and S.Adelaide P.. Maitland will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Manly Warr. will play against Albury W.B. and it may be a tough game between close rivals.
Top scorers:
Maitland M.: W.Cranston-Lown 23+5reb+6ast, M.Gray 22+7reb+1ast, J.Hunter 13+4reb+1ast, C.Little 10+4reb+2ast, D.Millburn 8+2reb, B.Parsons 6+5reb+4ast
Manly Warr.: M.Eldridge 16+4reb, M.Bragg 14+8reb+8ast, Z.Kimball 10+2reb+1ast, L.Clark 9+2reb+3ast, J.Harper 6+2reb, S.Valkovic 6+1reb+2ast

Cent.Coast C. - Albury W.B. 97-101

Very predictable result in Terrigal where fourth ranked Bandits (9-5) beat 13th ranked Crusaders (3-9) 101-97 on Saturday. Albury W.B. forced 20 Cent.Coast C. turnovers. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 26 assists. Guard William Hickey (194-1999) stepped up and scored 26 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists for the winners and American forward Kevion Blaylock (198-1994, college: William Penn) chipped in 20 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. American guard Evan Wardlow (195-1996, college: CS East Bay) responded with 25 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and Canadian forward Ben Stevens (207-1999, college: Laurier) produced a double-double by scoring 20 points and 13 rebounds. Five Albury W.B. and four Cent.Coast C. players scored in double figures. Albury W.B. moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Cent.Coast C. lost seventh consecutive game. They keep the thirteenth position with nine games lost. They share it with Diamond V.E.. Albury W.B. will meet Manly Warr. (#6) in the next round. Cent.Coast C. will play against Sutherland (#10) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Albury W.B.: W.Hickey 26+8reb+9ast, K.Blaylock 20+8reb+4ast, L.Cummings 15+5reb+4ast, M.Dance 12+7reb+3ast, S.Montague 12+4reb+2ast, J.Cincurak 8+4reb+3ast
Cent.Coast C.: E.Wardlow 25+7reb+5ast, B.Stevens 20+13reb+2ast, C.Nai 18+3reb+1ast, R.Heath 10+7reb+1ast, T.McGann 7, T.Akamarmoi 6+2reb+4ast

Norths B. - Canberra G. 72-83

Not a big story in a game in Crows Nest where 8th ranked Norths Soul Sports Bears (7-6) were defeated by first ranked Canberra Gunners (12-1) 83-72 on Saturday. Center Glenn Morison (208-1999, college: St.Edward's) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 31 points and 15 rebounds (on 11-of-14 shooting from the field) for the winners and forward William Mayfield (-2000) chipped in 14 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists. American Mandrell Worthy (191-1996, college: Azusa Pacific) responded with 25 points and Cooper Wilks scored 12 points. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Canberra Gunners have an impressive series of eleven victories in a row. Canberra G. maintains first place with 12-1 record. Loser Norths Soul Sports Bears dropped to the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Canberra G.: G.Morison 31+15reb+3ast, W.Mayfield 14+10reb+6ast, D.Emelifeonwu 11+1reb+1ast, C.Pender 8+5reb+5ast, A.Byatt 6+1ast, A.Clarke 4+3reb
Norths B.: M.Worthy 25+3reb+3ast, C.Wilks 12+2reb+1ast, B.Rymer 9+1reb+3ast, L.Holey 7+7reb, N.Musters 7+5reb, P.Badalassi 4+5reb

Group North

Gold Coast R. - Ipswich F. 76-70

Everything went according to plan in Gold Coast where tenth ranked Rollers (4-4) won against 12th ranked Force (3-7) 76-70 on Saturday. Gold Coast R. looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. Forward Elijah Kamu (196-2005) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and forward Will Magnay (208-1998, college: Tulsa) chipped in 19 points and 14 rebounds. Four Rollers players scored in double figures. The former international guard Nathan Sobey (190-1990, college: Wyoming) responded with 22 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists and American-DR Congolese forward Henry Pwono (198-1991, college: ECU) scored 15 points and 8 rebounds. Force's coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Gold Coast R. moved-up to seventh place, which they share with Rockhampton. Ipswich F. lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the twelfth position with seven games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Gold Coast R.: E.Kamu 22+14reb+2ast, W.Magnay 19+14reb+1ast, B.Mazlin 13+5reb+6ast, J.Cadee 12+3reb+10ast, P.Le Gassick 8+5reb+1ast, T.Diop 2+2reb
Ipswich F.: N.Sobey 22+5reb+6ast, H.Pwono 15+8reb+1ast, H.Makeny 7+11reb, M.Small 6+2reb+1ast, D.Kennedy 6+3reb+1ast, D.Mitchell 6+2reb

Rockhampton R. - Darwin S. 105-112

There was no surprise in Rockhampton where 5th ranked Rockets (4-4) were defeated by third ranked Salties (7-2) 112-105 on Saturday. Darwin S. made 23-of-27 free shots (85.2 percent) during the game. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 21 assists. Naturalized Sudanese forward Kouat Noi (201-1997, college: TCU) stepped up and scored 28 points and 6 rebounds for the winners and the former international swingman Makuach Maluach (200-1998, college: N.Mexico) chipped in 23 points and 7 rebounds. Naturalized South Sudanese center Matur Maker (208-1998) responded with a double-double by scoring 41 points (!!!), 13 rebounds and 4 assists (on 13-of-17 shooting from the field) and American forward Nighael Ceaser (203-2000, college: Texas St.) produced a double-double by scoring 25 points and 10 rebounds. Five Darwin S. and four Rockhampton players scored in double figures. Rockets' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Darwin S. moved-up to second place, which they share with Logan T. Loser Rockets dropped to the seventh position with four games lost. They share it with Gold Coast R.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Darwin S.: K.Noi 28+6reb+2ast, M.Maluach 23+7reb+2ast, C.Maker 17+6reb+1ast, S.Macdonald 14+4reb+4ast, V.Williams Jr. 12+4reb+3ast, D.George 7+1reb+1ast
Rockhampton R.: M.Maker 41+13reb+4ast, N.Ceaser 25+10reb+2ast, X.Ford 15+5reb+1ast, B.Tweedy 14+5reb+9ast, H.Richardson 7+2reb+2ast, M.Kuhl 2+2reb+1ast

SW Metro P. - NGC Seahawks 85-69

We could consider it a predictable result in the game between close teams in Runcorn where eleventh ranked South West Metro Pirates (4-5) defeated 10th ranked Seahawks (4-6) 85-69 on Saturday. Swingman Roman Siulepa (201-2006) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 32 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and center Ben Volkman (206-1997, college: Maryville, MO) chipped in 5 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists. Four South West Metro Pirates players scored in double figures. Guard Cameron Healy (190-1998, college: SUU) responded with 20 points and 9 rebounds and the former international guard Matthew Kenyon (196-1998) scored 20 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. SW Metro P. moved-up to ninth place. Loser Seahawks keep the tenth position with six games lost. They share it with Cairns M.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
SW Metro P.: R.Siulepa 32+14reb+2ast, B.Teys 17+4reb+3ast, K.Woodfall 15+5reb+4ast, N.Peters 14+1reb+3ast, B.Volkman 5+15reb+6ast, L.Funderburke 2
NGC Seahawks: M.Kenyon 20+8reb+3ast, C.Healy 20+9reb+2ast, W.Mahoney 16+7reb+2ast, N.Salmon 7+5reb, K.Bishop 4+9reb+4ast, K.De Haan 2+3reb+1ast

USC Rip - Townsville H. 91-65

We cannot really consider it an upset in the game between close teams in Sippy Downs where 14th ranked Townsville Heat (2-8) was rolled over by fifteenth ranked Rip City (1-1) 91-65 on Saturday. USC Rip outrebounded Townsville H. 57-33 including a 21-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. USC Rip looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. Naturalized Maltese power forward Nelson Kahler (206-1994, college: CSU-Pueblo, agency: BIG) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points and 20 rebounds (on 10-of-13 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Jamaal Robateau (196-1994, college: Gardner-Webb) chipped in 17 points and 4 assists. Five Rip City players scored in double figures. Rip City's coach felt very confident that he used entire bench and allowed the starting five to rest. Swingman Richard Peachey (201-2003, college: Umpqua CC) responded with 20 points and 5 rebounds and American forward Harrison Pennisi (208-2003, college: Fresno Pacific) scored 11 points and 6 rebounds. Rip City maintains fifteenth place with 1-1 record. Townsville H. lost sixth consecutive game. They keep the fourteenth position with eight games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
USC Rip: N.Kahler 22+20reb+1ast, J.Robateau 17+4reb+4ast, D.Robateau 14+6reb+2ast, K.McDowell-White 12+2reb+9ast, D.Dawam 11+8reb+2ast, J.Lucas 6+6reb+2ast
Townsville H.: R.Peachey 20+5reb+3ast, H.Pennisi 11+6reb+1ast, E.Betts 9+6reb+3ast, M.Wilson 7+5reb+1ast, M.Norton 7+1reb, M.Rees 4+1reb+3ast

SD Spartans - Cairns M. 92-65

The game between closely ranked teams ended with eighth ranked Brisbane Spartans' (5-4) home victory over 9th ranked Cairns Marlins (4-6) 92-65 on Saturday. SD Spartans dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Cairns Marlins's 32. SD Spartans outrebounded Cairns M. 52-23 including a 36-17 advantage in defensive rebounds. New Zealand center Tyrell Harrison (214-1999) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 22 points, 15 rebounds and 4 assists (on 10-of-11 shooting from the field) for the winners and the former international guard Mitch Norton (184-1993) chipped in 27 points and 4 assists. Five Brisbane Spartans players scored in double figures. The former international guard Alexander Mudronja (196-1999, college: SMC) responded with 22 points and 5 steals and guard Ky Stattmann (193-2003, college: Daytona St.) scored 18 points and 7 rebounds. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Brisbane Spartans have a solid series of four victories in a row. SD Spartans moved-up to fifth place. Cairns M. lost third consecutive game. They dropped to the tenth position with six games lost. They share it with NGC Seahawks. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
SD Spartans: M.Norton 27+4reb+4ast, T.Harrison 22+15reb+4ast, J.Bairstow 13+10reb+3ast, M.Kerle 12+7reb+2ast, C.Shervill 11+4reb+1ast, M.Honeyman 5+5reb+2ast
Cairns M.: A.Mudronja 22+3reb+2ast, K.Stattmann 18+7reb+2ast, K.Stattmann 15+1reb+3ast, K.Dennis 6+2reb, A.Farmer 3+2reb, J.Kunen 1+5reb+2ast

Group South

Diamond V.E. - Eltham W. 87-80

There was an upset in Greensborough where higher ranked Eltham Wildcats (7-7) were defeated by eighteenth ranked Diamond Valley Eagles (3-9) 87-80 on Saturday. Diamond V.E. made 18-of-22 free shots (81.8 percent) during the game. American guard Bryton Hobbs (183-1991, college: Northeastern St.) stepped up and scored 25 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists for the winners and center Jock Perry (216-1997, college: UC Riverside) chipped in 24 points and 11 rebounds. The former international guard Angus Glover (192-1998) responded with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists and guard Sam Short (195-1998) scored 14 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Four Eltham W. players scored in double figures. Eltham Wildcats' coach rotated ten players in this game, but that didn't help. Diamond V.E. moved-up to thirteenth place, which they share with Cent.Coast C. Loser Eltham Wildcats dropped to the eighth position with seven games lost. They share it with Warwick S.. Diamond V.E. will have a break next round, and it should allow them to practice more before next game. Eltham W. will play against Geelong U. (#16) and hope to secure a win.
Top scorers:
Diamond V.E.: B.Hobbs 25+9reb+6ast, J.Perry 24+11reb+1ast, J.McIntosh 12+7reb+2ast, B.Symons 8+2reb+1ast, E.Kafritsas 8+4reb+3ast, N.Todd 7+5reb+1ast
Eltham W.: A.Glover 17+7reb+5ast, R.Bissainthe 16+8reb, S.Short 14+5reb+5ast, J.Sykes 10+5reb+4ast, O.Foxwell 9+5reb+3ast, Z.Cunningham 7+2reb

Knox R. - Kilsyth C. 99-84

Everything went according to plan in Wantirna South where ninth ranked Knox Raiders (7-6) won against 18th ranked Kilsyth Cobras (3-11) 99-84 on Saturday. Forward Austin Rapp (206-2005) stepped up and scored 24 points and 9 rebounds for the winners and forward Kyle Bowen (203-2000, college: SMC) chipped in 11 points and 13 rebounds. Five Knox Raiders players scored in double figures. Naturalized South Sudanese power forward Deng Riak (208-1995, college: Akron) responded with 25 points and 7 rebounds and guard Adrian Tomada (-1995) scored 20 points and 4 assists. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Knox R. moved-up to sixth place, which they share with 4 other teams. Kilsyth C. lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourteenth position with 11 games lost. They share it with Cockburn C.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Knox R.: A.Rapp 24+9reb, K.Feagin 19+2reb+2ast, A.Rissetto 15+4reb+1ast, B.Nunn 13+3reb+5ast, K.Bowen 11+13reb+3ast, J.Foy 7+1reb+3ast
Kilsyth C.: D.Riak 25+7reb+1ast, A.Tomada 20+4reb+4ast, N.Feller 13+1reb, K.Adnam 9+1reb+4ast, B.Ursich 7+4reb+2ast, T.Lang 5+3reb

Bendigo B. - Ballarat M. 75-76

A very close game took place in Bendigo between Ballarat Miners and Bendigo Braves. First ranked Ballarat Miners (10-3) got a very close victory on the road over 13th ranked Bendigo Braves (6-9). Ballarat Miners managed to escape with a 1-point win 76-75 on Saturday evening. Guest team only slightly avoided a big embarassment. Naturalized Sudanese power forward Majok Majok (210-1992, college: Ball St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 17 points and 14 rebounds for the winners and guard Nicholas Stoddart (188-2000) chipped in 11 points and 4 assists. Ballarat Miners' coach Luke Brennan used a ten-player rotation in such tough game. Guard Mitchell Clarke (186-1999) responded with 22 points and 5 rebounds and guard Rowan Mackenzie (190-1999, college: LCU) scored 16 points, 5 assists and 5 steals. Four Bendigo players scored in double figures. Ballarat Miners have a solid series of three victories in a row. Ballarat M. maintains first place with 10-3 record, which they share with BA CoE. Loser Bendigo Braves dropped to the fourteenth position with nine games lost. They share it with Ringwood. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Ballarat M.: M.Majok 17+14reb+1ast, N.Stoddart 11+3reb+4ast, T.Rudolph 11+5reb, L.Rosendale 9+3reb+2ast, E.Fiegert 9+2reb+1ast, Z.Dunmore 7+2reb
Bendigo B.: M.Clarke 22+5reb+3ast, R.Mackenzie 16+3reb+5ast, A.Robinson 13+7reb, L.O'Brien 10+3reb, K.Bar 6+5reb+1ast, B.Smythe 4+5reb+1ast

Frankston B. - Ringwood H. 88-70

There was no surprise in Seaford where 13th ranked Ringwood Hawks (6-9) were defeated by eighth ranked Frankston Blues (7-5) 88-70 on Saturday. Frankston B. looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The game was dominated by American players. Power forward Stokley Chaffee (204-1996, college: Tennessee St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 16 points, 11 rebounds and 5 assists (on 7-of-9 shooting from the field) for the winners and guard Klay Brown (193-1999, college: Academy of Art) chipped in 21 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). Four Frankston Blues players scored in double figures. Guard Jonathan Lawton (188-1996, college: FSC, agency: IceBasket) responded with 22 points and 5 rebounds (was perfect 7-for-7 from the free throw line) and center Braelen Bridges (210-1999, college: Georgia) scored 12 points and 8 rebounds. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Frankston B. moved-up to fifth place, which they share with East Perth E. Ringwood lost fifth consecutive game. They dropped to the fourteenth position with nine games lost. They share it with Bendigo. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Frankston B.: K.Brown 21+5reb+5ast, L.Barker 18+2reb+2ast, S.Chaffee 16+11reb+5ast, D.Trist 13+14reb, L.Barker 6+8reb+8ast, I.Hadziomerovic 6+2reb+2ast
Ringwood H.: J.Lawton 22+5reb+1ast, L.Ahale 13+2reb+1ast, B.Bridges 12+8reb+3ast, T.Carroll 8+6reb, S.Lees 6+4reb+5ast, A.Angok 3+4reb

Melbourne T. - Keilor T. 69-82

No shocking result in a game in Melbourne where seventh ranked Thunder (9-5) defeated 12th ranked Tigers (6-7) 82-69 on Saturday. Keilor T. shot 21 for 30 from the free-throw line, while Melbourne T. only scored four points from the stripe. Naturalized South Sudanese center Deng Acuoth (208-1996) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 14 points and 13 rebounds for the winners and the former international guard Kyle Zunic (188-1999, college: Winthrop) chipped in 17 points and 8 rebounds. Forward Jack Purchase (203-1995, college: Hawaii) responded with a double-double by scoring 11 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists and forward Mason Gaze (198-2001, college: Lindenwood) scored 17 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Tigers' coach rotated eleven players in this game, but that didn't help. Keilor T. moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Loser Tigers dropped to the eleventh position with seven games lost. They share it with Nunawading S.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Keilor T.: J.Gibbs 21+2reb+2ast, K.Zunic 17+8reb+3ast, D.Acuoth 14+13reb+3ast, D.Poelsma 10, K.Kuany 8+1ast, T.Lakes 6+6reb+2ast
Melbourne T.: M.Gaze 17+7reb+6ast, J.Whitbourn 15+8reb+1ast, J.Purchase 11+10reb+9ast, F.Von Hofe 9+1ast, C.Barker 7+6reb+1ast, R.Simankevicius 5+4reb+3ast

Nunawading S. - Waverley F. 91-104

Very expected game in East Burwood where 11th ranked Spectres (6-7) were defeated by sixth ranked Waverley Falcons (9-4) 104-91 on Saturday. Waverley F. dominated down low during the game scoring 68 of its points in the paint compared to Spectres's 46. Waverley F. outrebounded Nunawading S. 40-28 including 30 on the defensive glass. The former international guard Dejan Vasiljevic (190-1997, college: Miami, FL) stepped up and scored 27 points and 5 rebounds for the winners and American forward Mason Forbes (206, college: SMC) chipped in 19 points and 11 rebounds. American guard Jalen Johnson (198-1997, college: Mercer) responded with 27 points and 6 rebounds and guard Kingsley Box (196-2001, college: SUU) scored 11 points and 6 assists. Both teams had four players each who scored in double figures. Both coaches used bench players and allowed the starting five to rest. Waverley Falcons have an impressive series of six victories in a row. Waverley F. moved-up to second place, which they share with Mt.Gambier. Loser Spectres keeps the eleventh position with seven games lost. They share it with Melbourne T.. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Waverley F.: D.Vasiljevic 27+5reb+3ast, M.Meunier 24+6reb+1ast, M.Forbes 19+11reb+2ast, M.McCarthy 16+7reb+1ast, M.Howard 7+3ast, D.Kernich-Drew 4+3reb+2ast
Nunawading S.: J.Johnson 27+6reb, D.Baxter 11+4reb, C.D'Angelo 11+1reb, K.Box 11+3reb+6ast, N.Tata 10+4reb, T.Hankerson 7+6reb+4ast

Group West

Geraldton B. - Joondalup W. 100-89

The game had a very big importance for second-ranked Buccaneers as it allowed them to take a leadership position. Buccaneers defeated 3rd placed Wanneroo in Wonthella 100-89. Geraldton B. outrebounded Joondalup W. 45-32 including a 34-23 advantage in defensive rebounds. Geraldton B. looked well-organized offensively handing out 23 assists. The best player for the winners was guard Nikolas DeSantis (-1998) who scored 23 points, 8 rebounds and 9 assists (was perfect 10-for-10 from the free throw line !!!). American forward Joshua Keyes (201-1995, college: Muskingum) chipped in a double-double by scoring 18 points and 11 rebounds. Keyes is a former Eurobasket Summer League player, which is considered top international summer league in the market. Five Buccaneers players scored in double figures. Buccaneers' coach used a ten-player rotation which allowed the starters a little rest for the next games. Forward Caleb Davis (206-1995, college: SVSU) produced 25 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists and American guard Jonathan Wade (196-1993, college: Norfolk St.) added 23 points and 6 rebounds respectively for the guests. Buccaneers have a solid series of four victories in a row. As mentioned above they are at the top of the standings, which they share with Maitland. Joondalup W. at the other side keeps the third place with three games lost. They share the position with S.Adelaide P. and Manly Warr.. Joondalup W. will have a break next week, which should allow them to rest in order to get back on the winning path. Geraldton B. will try to continue on its current victory against eleventh ranked Perth R. in Northbridge.
Top scorers:
Geraldton B.: N.DeSantis 23+8reb+9ast, J.Keyes 18+11reb+3ast, A.Ralph 17+6reb+1ast, J.Braun 12+1reb+5ast, L.Hunt 12+11reb+3ast, M.Wundenberg 7+4reb
Joondalup W.: C.Davis 25+5reb+5ast, J.Wade 23+6reb+3ast, C.Turnage 22+6reb+3ast, C.Jurlina 8+3reb+5ast, V.Chadinha 6+7reb, J.Wellsteed 3+4reb+3ast

Mandurah M. - SW Slammers 129-85

Very predictable result in Mandurah where fourth ranked Magic (9-5) outscored 13th ranked Slammers (3-10) 129-85 on Saturday. Mandurah shot 60.3 percent from the field and made 28-of-32 free shots (87.5 percent) during the game, while SW Slammers only scored two points from the stripe. They outrebounded SW Slammers 45-31 including a 38-19 advantage in defensive rebounds. Mandurah shot the lights out from three sinking 19 long-distance shots on high 59.4 percentage. They looked well-organized offensively handing out 22 assists. The game was dominated by American players. Point guard Joel Murray (183-1999, college: LBSU, agency: Slash Sports) stepped up and scored 33 points (!!!) and 8 assists for the winners and forward Michael Durr (213-1998, college: UCF) chipped in 15 points, 20 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 blocks. Five Magic players scored in double figures. Swingman Buay Tuach (198-1995, college: LMU, agency: Haylett Sports) responded with 25 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists and forward Alex Holcombe (206-1998, college: DBU) scored 16 points. The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Magic have an impressive series of five victories in a row. Mandurah moved-up to third place, which they share with 5 other teams. Loser Slammers keep the thirteenth position with ten games lost. Both teams do not play next round, which will be an opportunity for some rest.
Top scorers:
Mandurah M.: J.Murray 33+2reb+8ast, J.Molnar 25+2reb+1ast, J.Pesava 25+6reb+3ast, L.Bertram 18+4reb+1ast, M.Durr 15+20reb+4ast, J.Brabazon 4
SW Slammers: B.Tuach 25+6reb+4ast, A.Holcombe 16+4reb+2ast, M.Wugol 9+4reb, B.Jonker 8+1reb, D.Craig 7+4reb+2ast, J.Flynn 6+3reb+2ast

Goldfields G. - Rockingham F. 97-73

There was a minor upset in Kalgoorlie where 6th ranked Flames (7-6) were outplayed by ninth ranked Giants (6-6) 97-73 on Saturday. Goldfields G. dominated down low during the game scoring 56 of its points in the paint compared to Flames's 34. Goldfields G. forced 20 Rockingham F. turnovers. American forward DeSean Parsons (201-1995, college: Portland St.) stepped up with a double-double by scoring 20 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists for the winners and his fellow American import point guard Randy Bell (193-1998, college: Dalton St.) chipped in 26 points and 7 rebounds. Four Giants players scored in double figures. American forward Quintin Dove (197-1998, college: UT Martin) responded with a double-double by scoring 10 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists and New Zealand-Dutch Jonathan Janssen (205-1995, college: HPU) scored 21 points (on 8-of-10 shooting from the field). The winner was already known earlier in the game, so both coaches allowed to play the bench players saving starting five for next games. Goldfields G. maintains ninth place with 6-6 record. Rockingham F. lost fourth consecutive game. They keep the sixth position with six games lost. They share it with 4 other teams. Goldfields G. will meet at home higher ranked East Perth E. (#5) in the next round and it will be quite challenging to get another victory. Rockingham F. will have a break next round.
Top scorers:
Goldfields G.: R.Bell 26+7reb+3ast, D.Parsons 20+10reb+7ast, M.Malek 19+9reb+2ast, D.Ballantyne 13+5reb+1ast, J.Reid 6+1reb+2ast, D.Sumsion 5+1reb
Rockingham F.: J.Janssen 21+4reb, G.Gak 14+7reb+1ast, Q.Dove 10+10reb+5ast, A.Abuy 6+4reb+2ast, T.Durnin 5+2reb, J.Beard 5+6reb+2ast