CBA Winter Club Basketball 2014

GRAND FINALS DAY

 

Week endingSunday 21st September

 

By Club Basketball Correspondent: Bruce Martin, with the aid of stats extraordinaire Sharon Erwood, her side kick Anna and numerous callers..

Thanks to all others that have contributed to this Grand Finals Day report. 

Email: bruceymartin@hotmail.com

 

HI ALL Please help out our Sharon

Sky City NZ Breakers play Sydney Kings this coming week

Breakers Dinner Monday 29^th September Garden Restaurant Marshland Rd

SPECIAL OFFER Two for the price of one $60 from 6pm.

10 people plus two players per table

Limited amount of Silver Game Tickets Tuesday 30^th Sept Horncastle Arena

$40 each normally $46 booked on line

Email Sharon sjerwood@vodafone.co.nz or TXT ‘Finals Deals to 021 384583

 

A special big thanks to those that manned the score benches on Grand Finals day and to the games officials

 

Grand Finals Day Saturday September 20^th Cowles Stadium

SCOREBENCH ROSTER  Thanks for all your support

	Cowles 1	Cowles 2
8:30am	All Stars Y7-8B  Pioneer Pacers  v       NC Tar Heels	AllStars Y7-8G   Wharenui Gators v   NC Tar Heels
Scorebench	Simcocks/Van Houts	Faith & Tom Harrison, Tanaysha
9:30am	All Stars  Y5-6G  Wharenui Gators v Bishopdale Y	All Stars Y5-6B    NC Tar Heels  v Bishopdale Y
Scorebench	Simcocks/Van Houts	Cathy H, Tanaysha, Will L, Simon Chan
10:45am	M U17 St Andrews  v Papanui HS	G U15  Wharenui Gators vCheckers
Scorebench	Thelma, Mandy, Richard K, Ryan M, Juleen L(NC) – one to call	Royals BB – Cathy H bench Denise R, Carole, Hayley, Robyn S
12:30pm	B U15 Cashmere HS  v Shirley Spartans	W U20 UCA v Burnside HS
Scorebench	Thelma, Craig R, Richard K, Lynn B Juleen Lacey – one to call	Halswell Sandra T bench Barbara S, Aleni & Fionna C & others
2:15pm	M U20 Burnside HS v CBHS Black	W D1 Royals v Minties
Scorebench	Halswell Sandra T bench	Heather D, Trish McD, Jacqui W, SimounT
4:00pm	M U23 Lincoln Bulls v Pioneer	M D1 Placemakers v Pilipinas Askals
Scorebench	Halswell Sandra T bench + Lisa R	Chris C,  Adele M, Kirsty J
Referees	Raelene W, Marty D, Richard K	Raewyn Willocks, Sam D
5:45pm	WP: Lincoln Uni v University
Scorebench	NBL Thelma, Cathy, Marinda, ­­Richard
Referees	Raelene F, Sam D, Romeo V
7:30pm	MP: Checkers v Atami
Scorebench	Thelma,­­­­­ Cathy, John B, Richard K ,

 

 

GRAND FINALS DAY

A BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR NEW CHAMPIONS ON GRAND FINALS DAY

 

There were 14 Grand finals starting off with the Junior All Stars in a day of non-stop action which will ensure the development of future Canterbury Rams and Wildcats for the continuance of Canterbury basketball. Non-stop action all day and a large revolving crowd ensured another successful Grand Finals day was held with very few problems apart from one fire alarm call out moments after the start of the Men’s Premier Grand Final got underway.

 

Checkers regained the Robert C Curtis Cup when it ousted the defending champion Atami 84-72 in an action packed Men’s Premier club basketball championship Grand Final played in Cowles Stadium on Saturday. Checkers, champions in 2011 and 2012, have now won eight titles since 1977.

Lincoln University captured two championship trophies, both for the first time with Patron’s trophy winner Lincoln ousting long-term champion University of Canterbury 66-51 in the Women’s Premier Grand Final while Lincoln Bulls went through the season unbeaten to take the Men’s Under 23 championship with a solid 100-72 win over Pioneer.

 

REFEREES CORNER

Congratulations too must go to new CBA Referee Manager Carol Bathurst who has done a marvellous job since her appointment in July and working almost 24/7 has seen a very large majority of games covered by some old, not so old and a new team of referees.

 

CBOA and NBL League referee Raewyn Willocks sent in her report

The 2014 season was a tough one for referees.  Our numbers were low at the start of the season and it was through the dedication and hard work of our team that we managed to get through.  The appointment of Carol Bathurst as our Referee Manager was a turning point for Referees.  Carol has worked extremely hard to get more referees on board which ensured that almost every game was covered with 2 referees from the time she was appointed.  Canterbury is very fortunate to have such a strong group of referees who constantly work hard to ensure that the Canterbury Basketball club competition is the best in the country.  

Thank you to Carol and the team. Well done, awesome job!!

Raewyn Willocks CBOA 

 

New Referee Manager Carol Bathurst supplied this report

I would like to send a huge “Thank You” to everyone for their help during my first few months with CBA. I have been very proud to be Referee Manager to such a fantastic group of referees, many of whom have gone the extra mile to make my job easier than it could otherwise have been. Our achievements – not just here in Canterbury - have been outstanding. We have had at least one referee in every National Tournament Final, a remarkable feat – Congratulations to everyone involved!!

For those of you just embarking on your refereeing career, you have great role models here in Canterbury and you can see firsthand just how far it is possible to go.

Our season culminated in Grand Finals Day on Saturday, Cowles Stadium was full of atmosphere and I would like to say “Well Done” to everyone who officiated in a Final.

I’m sure you will all want to join me in thanking Sharon Erwood for providing a wonderful array of food for the referees. Thanks Sharon!

As we move forward I am buoyed by the interest shown from new referees to take their involvement further. There are plenty of opportunities in the “off” season for personal development with several programmes including mini-ball and the Summer Development League, so when next season starts we will be able to hit the ground running.

I am looking forward to continuing to work with you all. Thank you for all your hard work,

Carol

 

Bruce’s picks were near and far

My other picks for the finals are

Well done Checkers and KP, I hedged my beats here, Atami didn’t come to play as well as they are capable off and Lincoln was too organised for University

10.45am MU17: STAC to edge Papanui High unless Papanui does another OT comeback.

Knew it would go either way, Stac were 15-20 secs from sending it to OT but the inside jumper missed or my pick would have been near perfect. I hear that it stirred Papanui to greater and better things. Well done both teams.

10.45am GU15 Wharenui Gators too strong for Checkers but Checkers have improved greatly. Got this right, Checkers did very well but only tired in the last qtr

12.30pm: BU15 Shirley Spartans to sneak home over Cashmere but Cashmere have some tall timber. Half right, didn’t expect the thumping

12.30pm: WU20 . Not going to stop UC A for a third straight title but Burnside will try hard.

Burnside tried hard by UC too skilled, another right

2.15pm MU20. Should be Burnside all the way but Boys High capable of an upset. Go Joe!

Got this right, almost an upset until Joe put a bomb under Burnside at halftime

2.15pm WD1. Royals again all the way, prove me wrong Minties

Got this wrong but I stirred up Minties to good effect.

4.00pm MU23 The unbeaten Lincoln Bulls should go all the way but Pioneer are hurting.

Got this right but Bulls had every situation covered

4.00pm MD1 Placemakers (now under the Pioneer banner) have the experience, champions in 2008/09 &2011/12 including the Costley brothers while the new boys Pilipinas Askals have improved week by week and will be buoyed on by hundreds of patriotic supporters, bring your ear-muffs, there will be standing room only around Ct2.

Another one right but for an injury Pilipinas to a key player may have upset

 

 

 

 

 

 

Men’s Premier Championship

 

2005 Champion: Royals	2007 champion: Metro
2002, 2011 and 2012  champion: CHECKERS
1992, 1994, 2004, 2006, 2008/09/10, 2013  Defending champion: ATAMI

 

2014 Grand Champion: CHECKERS

 

Checkers regained the MP trophy winning tight game against Atami 84-72 

The Grand Final of the day got off to a difficult start after a fire alarm stopped it 40 seconds into time but fortunately there was no damage, a smelly oven and the Final was re-started, so thanks to all the patient fans.

Checkers regained the Robert C Curtis Cup when it ousted the defending champion Atami 84-72 in an action packed Men’s Premier club basketball championship Grand Final played in Cowles Stadium on Saturday. Checkers, champions in 2011 and 2012, have now won eight titles since 1977.

The veteran Atami side which has won through to 13 Grand finals in 14 season’s started strongly through good team efforts with six players all scoring, led by energetic work from Cam Chalmers and Rusty Thomson. Canterbury Ram Ethan Rusbatch in awesome form, cranked up Checkers feared running game, fed much ball from Nat Connell (17, nine rebounds and four assists) and Pip Johnston while another former NBL player Ben Van Oosten (12) defended strongly. By quarter-time Checkers led 24-19 but Atami were not done yet as they fought back to trial 40-42 by the turn around with Ritchie Howell (16) getting among the boards. Rusbatch, later to be named MVP of the final, rebounded both boards supremely and drove through the smallest of gaps in Atami’s defence. Canterbury Ram Josh Paurini (11 and seven rebounds) changed plans about missing the game and made strong defencive moves to give Checkers a good supply on ball.  With Atami’s shooting dropping to a low 38% (29-76) then Checkers shooting 46% (33-71) pulled clear in the third-quarter to led 69-54 at the final break and controlled play till the end.

 

Terry Brunel sent in his comments

Checkers set the pace in this one and Atami struggled to contain Ethan Rusbatch and Nat Connell. Both found their way to the basket too many times and but for some foul trouble Rusbatch might have had 30. Ritchie Howell toiled hard to keep the score board ticking over while Rusty Thomson and Bryn McLennan had their moments too. But Checkers had too many answers and with Ben Van Oosten and Josh Purini providing additional scoring power Checkers were comfortable winners.

 

Scorers were:

MEN’S PREMIER Grade Grand Final:

Checkers 84  (Ethan Rusbatch 24, 10R, 4S, Nat Connell 17, 9R, 4S, Ben Van Oosten 12, Josh Paurini 11, 7R) Atami 72 (Ritchie Howell 16, Rusty Thomson 12, Bryn McLennan 11, Joel Hart 10, 7R, Cameron Chalmers 10, 4A). HT: 42-40.

MVP: Ethan Rusbatch (Checkers).

Referees: Raewyn Willocks, Matt Bathurst and Elliot Duncan.

 

 Women’s Premier Championship

2005 Champion: Minties		2009 Champion: Wolverines
2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012 &2013  Defending Champion: University

2014 Grand Champion: Lincoln University 

 

Lincoln University 66 University of Canterbury 51

Patron’s trophy winner Lincoln ousted long-term champion University of Canterbury 66-51 in the Women’s Premier Grand Final to gain its first Women’s Premier championship title.

Lincoln’s Coach Pat Turton attributed two previous season's of hard work and team effort to the positive result for Lincoln in the Women's Premier final and the season of 2014. The addition of Johaana Bates, Tessa Morrison (13, 7 rebounds) and Anastasia Taumati to the team roster added to the existing experience and depth within the team consisting of captain Shea Crotty 15 points (Finals MVP, Wildcats Captain and now Tall Fern) and Wildcats, Hannah Turton and Bridgette Lawn (11).

Crotty splashed several triple pointers to set the stage for Lincoln pulling to a 24-13 first-quarter lead and despite strong University play for the remainder held tightly to their lead while Morrison was always in support.

Wildcat Rosanna Katene was never far from the action for University with 15 points and nine rebounds while National Junior representative Kendal Hastie (13) stole several balls and slotted some late three-pointers for University. National rep Laken Wairau (7) had a difficult time from the Lincoln defence, shooting only 3 from 12 while another starter Terina Wanoa had a poor day about the hoops missing all nine attempts but worked long and hard to keep University in the game.

Pat’s report continues

A big thank you must go to Lincoln University who have invested in basketball development within the region and created a great club environment for their membership.  Thanks to the UC team and coach Pip for a great game that was always finely balanced until the last few minutes.  The Longhorns were able to put points on the board early in the game and worked hard on defense to ensure the lead was maintained with the widest margin at one point being 17 points.  The game was closed out by a strong team effort with the final score of 65 -50 a satisfying reflection of their efforts over the season.

 Scorers were:

WOMENS PREMIER Grade Grand Final:

Lincoln University 66 (Shea Crotty 15, Tessa Morrison 13, 7R, Bridgette Lawn 11, 7R, Hannah Turton 9) University 51 (Rosana Katene 15 9R, Kendal Hastie 13). HT: 35-24.

MVP: Shea Crotty (Lincoln).

Referees: Raelene Forde, Sam Dixon and Romeo Villanueva.

 

 Men’s Under 23

2009  Champion Wolverines 2010  Champion Atami

  2008 &2012  Champion Checkers

  2011 & 2013 Defending Champion: Gators

2014 Grand Champion: Lincoln University Bulls

 

Lincoln University Bulls dominated Pioneer Pacers 100-72.

MVP Xavier Shaw, 22 points and nine huge rebounds, paved the way for Lincoln Bulls to a solid 100-72 win over a lack-lustre Pioneer in the Men’s Under 23 Grand final to remain unbeaten. Canterbury Ram bench player James Cawthorn added his usual strong contribution of 28 points and 13 rebounds with many enterprising runs while Pioneer’s Oli Davies continued his startling and dazzling play with 28 points, nine rebounds and six assists, backed up by useful work from Harley Campbell with 16 points.

 

Lincoln Bulls coach James Lissaman supplied this report

The Lincoln University Bulls came out highly focused on completing their perfect U23 season, especially with the reminder of their blowout loss to Gators in last years’ final. This focus saw them score at a tremendous rate to begin the game – having 11 points after their first six possessions, including an emphatic dunk to open the ledger from Finals MVP Xavier Shaw.

The Pioneer Pacers knew they were facing an uphill battle, with one of their primary guards, Quinn Clinton, being withheld from the game after breaking his finger on Wednesday, and Kyle Tikao battling a stress fracture in his lower leg, which eventually forced him from the game. The LU Bulls kept the pressure up on Oli Davies, who was forced to handle the ball nearly every possession, with Aled Jones being the primary defender responsible for keeping Davies in check. It wasn’t until Oli hit three consecutive three pointers, that he may have finally felt like he got some good looks at the basket. By this stage it was definitely a case of “too little, too late”, as this late flurry of offensive fireworks only saw the LU lead be cut from 35 to 26 points. Davies finished with a very respectable line of 28 points, 9 rebounds and 6 assists. Harley Campbell tried to provide some help on the scoring front, but was hounded into some tough shots, primarily by James Cawthorn, as he went 5/23 for his 16 points, but did contribute 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

For the Bulls, the entire nine man team contributed to their score, with James Cawthorn leading the way with a double-double of 28 points, and 13 rebounds. Xavier Shaw had 22 points and 9 rebounds, while Captain Nick Erwood also had a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds. Sam Smith finished up his season with 14 points and 3 steals, whilst Aled Jones had 8 assists and 6 rebounds. Special mention must be made of James Levings, with perhaps the block of the day, a microcosm of the work the LU team did on that end of the floor, which allowed them to stifle the normally efficient Pioneer offense into only 0.81 points per possession, and help to build on the offensive team work Coaches James Lissaman and Terry Brunel have had the team practising all year.

 

Coaching Director Terry Brunel takes up the story.

Lincoln jumped on Pioneer early and kept the foot on the pedal to the end. James Cawthorn

and Xavior Shaw were scoring in bunches with great support from Sam Smith and Nick Erwood.

Shaw 22 pts and 9R showed what an inside presence he could be with nifty spins and strong rebounding.

Cawthorn 28pts was hot and scored from all over the court but the real story of the game was the outstanding defense of Aled Jones, James Levings and Sam Smith who locked down the offensive fire power of Oli Davies and Harley Campbell for long periods. Campbell made some shots for Pioneer to get to 16 and Davies worked for every one of his 28 points hitting three 3 pointers in a row late in the game but it was too little too late and Lincoln grabbed their first title and go unbeaten for the season.

 

Scorers were:

Under 23 Grand Final:

Lincoln Bulls 100 (James Cawthorn 28, 13R, Xavier Shaw 22, 9R, Sam Smith 14, Nick Erwood 12, 12B) Pioneer Pacers 72 (Oli Davies 28, 9R, 6A, Harley Campbell 16, 6R 5A). HT: 49-30.

MVP: Xavier Shaw (Lincoln Bulls).

Referees: Raelene Forde, Marty Davison and Richard Kenny

 

 Men’s Under 20  

2008 Champion North Canterbury			2009 Champion St Andrews A
2010 Champion Ch Ch Boys High			2011 Champion: Cashmere HS
2012  Champion: Burnside HS			2013 Defending Champion: M G Gators

 

2014 Grand Champion: Burnside HS A

 

Burnside HS A given a fright by Christchurch Boys HS Black before winning 90-69.

Burnside High school regained the Men’s Under 20 title but was given a huge wakeup call by the other Secondary school’s National qualifier Christchurch Boys High Black. Burnside had to come from behind at half-time (40-43) to win 90-69 through the powerful efforts on MVP Shou Nisbett (30 plus nine rebounds and five assists) returning to form after an injury lay-off.

Toby Gillooly got Burnside off to a rocking start, shooting 17 of Burnside’s first 33 points nearing the end of the second quarter but quick thinking and forcefull play from Boys High’s Ben Harris (24) turned the game around for his school. He shot 24 (10-18) in his 29 minutes of court time. The eventual result may have been well different if the tall Jack Ansell and gifted playmaker Quinn Clinton (broken finger) could have suited up. Josh Chin (12 pts, 10 rebounds and 5 assists) also made a positive contribution to the Boys high play during his 38 minutes on court. Gillooly finished with strong figures off 28 points and 11 rebounds.

Burnside came out smarting in the second spell with Nisbett making numerous end to end plays through tough Boys High defence while Kasuki Tsukiji played his usual mopping up role and setting the plays, slotting 11 points and taking 11 rebounds. Burnside took control of the game outscoring a slackening Boys high 25-18 in the third and 25-8 in the final quarter.

Hammond will be having a very close look at what went wrong and is reknown for calling additional practices before heading to Palmerston North early this week.

 

Burnside’s coach Joe Hammond reports

Boys High showed their typical toughness and fought us well but we came away in the 4th quarter. Shou Nisbet and Toby Gillooly combined for nearly 60 points for us by attacking throughout and being aggressive. They had young Ben Harris step up and do some nice work. Josh Chin was solid and they played great team basketball.  Our team picked up the defensive effort in the 4th quarter to carry us home. It was tough with both teams missing key players but we are happy to finish this season off strong. We now look forward to Nationals next week and hope to represent Christchurch well.

 

Terry Brunel penned a few words on the game too

Many predicted the result but not many predicted the closeness of the game given that Quinn Clinton could not play. The score really did not do Boys High justice as they fought hard throughout and lead going into the final quarter. Early on Burnside’s Toby Gillooly (28 pts) was the biggest problem Boys High had scoring inside and out but they seemed to deal with this and found superior team work and ball movement to get back into the contest. It remained that way for two quarters with Ben Harris (24pts) and  Josh Chin (11pts) keeping Boys High in front. But it was “Shou Time” from that point on and Shou Nisbet (30pts) lit up the floor with an array of drives and shooting that sorted out the men for the boys in the fourth quarter.

 

Referee Richard Kenny was watching from the scorebench

With both Christchurch Boys & Burnside qualified for nationals this was shaping as more than a final but as atune up for Palmerston North. Despite missing Andre Tamagushiku & Jack Ansell with injury & Quinn Clinton also limited by a broken finger, Boys High would dig deep and show that they weren't going to be rolled over. Burnside's stars in Tom Liu & Shou Nisbet would keep the scoreboard ticking over for their team but for 3 quarters they couldn't shake Boys High as both teams hit their shots highlighted by Boys High beating the half time siren to make it all square at the main break. Unfortunately for Boys High although only 4 points down at the last change, fatigue set in as Burnside bolted away in the last 10 minutes scoring 25-8. All the best to both teams as the attention now turns to Palmerston North and Secondary School Nationals.

 

 

Scorers were:

Under 20 Grand Final:

Burnside HS A 90 (Shou Nisbett 30, 9R, 5A, Toby Gillooly 28, 11R, Tom Liu 14, 7R, Kazuki Tsukiji 11, 6A) Christchurch Boys HS Black 69 (Ben Harris 24, Josh Chin 12, 10R, 5A). HT: CBHS 43-40.

MVP: Shou Nisbett (Burnside).

Referees: Adele Morris and Brad Clive.

 

 Boy’s Under 17

 

2008  Champion Ch Ch Boys HS Blue

2009  Champion Cashmere HS

2010 Champion St Bedes Coll

2011  Champion: Wolverines

2012  Champion: Burnside HS

2013 Champion: Middleton Grange Gators Green

 

2014 Grand Champion: PAPANUI HIGH SCHOOL

 

Papanui High comes back to beat St Andrews College 71-67

St Andrews took control of the early game shooting ut to a 22-15 first-quarter lead and extending it to 43-34 by the turn around but forceful moves by the small but alert Alem Gebrekirstos set the moves for Papanui to climb back into the game as they did in the previous week’s semi.With eventual MVP Tane October taking control of the boards with 14 rebounds and six assists Papanui regained the lead 53-52 by quarter-time. A trio of treble pointers from representative Jayden Britt kept Papanui back in the lead as St Andrews threatened consistently. Late in the game quick hands by Gebrekirstos stopped a last ditch effort by St Andrews to take the game and 15-20 seconds from time a missed easy shot could have sent the game into over-time, forcing St Andrews to foul and stop the clock. All in all a great learning curve for St Andrews which are also heading to the SS Nationals this week.

Jayden Chan led STAC by example with 24 points and 8 rebounds while Ben Cushing added 20 plus 16 rebounds and Tullan McGuniness had his usual steady game with 12 points.

Stac’s usually proficient scoring let it down, slotting only 23 from 71 at 32% while Papanui land 28-59 at a high 48%.

 

Papanui’s coach Paul Isitt, a former Canterbury Ram, sent in his report.

Both teams started nervously but it was STAC that settled into their game first and gradually built up a lead of as much as 15. STAC was moving the ball nicely on offence with Jayden Chan hard to stop from deep even with a hand in his face. Papanui stopped the momentum when they moved to a zone and gradually worked their way back into the game as their confidence built on offence. Alem Gebrikirstos and Jayden Chan both played the full 40 minutes and both lead the scoring with 24 points in a great head to head battle. Later in the game Papanui switched up to man to man and the intensity of this ultimately led to the win. A crucial steal by Alem off an inbounds pass when the score was very close sealed the game in the last minute. Jayden Britt hit some crucial 3 pointers down the stretch and his defence on the bigger Tullan McGuiness was outstanding. MVP Tane October was huge on the boards with 14 and also added 6 assists. Carl was closely guarded and often chose to pass rather than shoot but was big for us defensively in protecting the paint with Tane. The ever improving Gabriel O'Connor rose to the occasion with 5 FGs and Andrew Gullien responded superbly to increased court time with the injury to Gianni Jackson. Jayden Chan was STACs standout along with Ben Cushing who was a monster on the boards as usual. This game was everything a final should be with the intensity and closeness of the score making the game a great spectacle. Ultimately I believe Papanui came out the victor due to the greater depth in their team.

Dan the Man Chan watched his baby brothers efforts and this is his report

St Andrew’s College v Papanui High School (67 – 71)

Payback was the theme as Papanui High School overcame a sizable first half deficit to defeat the boys from the other end of Papanui Road, in what was essentially a rematch of their playoff game for a spot at Secondary School Nationals.

 

St Andrew’s came storming out of the gate, with energetic forward Ben Cushing (20 points, 16 reb) throwing down an emphatic ‘Kodak moment’ fast break in-traffic dunk which set the tone for an intense final. After the first quarter, STAC led 22-15.

 

The second quarter was a tighter affair, with both teams guilty of turnovers leading to a more free-flowing spectacle. Papanui’s forward duo of Carl Issit (10 points) and Tane October caused trouble inside as they combined for 19 boards, with eventual Finals MVP October landing 14 of them. At the half, STAC led 43-34.

 

The third quarter was all Papanui as they outscored STAC 19-9 to take a 1-point lead heading into the fourth. Papanui’s own version of Brandon Jennings, Alem Gebrekirstos added some timely buckets to finish with 24 points (4/6 3pt, 5 steals) although was hounded into making 10 turnovers. For STAC, Tullan McGuinness had a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebs, but was a very inefficient 2/17 from the field.

 

The final period was neck and neck with the lead changing several times. STAC’s Jayden Chan was particularly effective running the cutter in a close-the-gate set which led to a few open 3’s. He finished with 24 points (5/10 3PT), 8 rebs, 4 steals. However, it was the unlikely hero, Papanui’s young Jayden Britt who made some clutch three pointers down the stretch, akin to Gary Neal in last year’s NBA Finals. Britt contributed 15 points on 3/6 3PT.

 

Some costly turnovers and a controversial foul call, which will no doubt be scrutinised worldwide by ESPN in the days to come, ultimately led to STAC’s demise. Credit goes to the Papanui defense which caused disruption to STAC’s half court sets, resulting in a lot of rushed isolation plays. In the end, it was too much pressure and Papanui ran out deserved winners, 71-67.

 

Referee Richard Kenny was also watching from the scorebench

A case of the season's dominant team squaring off against the apparent 'new school in the neighbourhood.' St. Andrew's would jump out to an early lead with Tullan McGuiness firing early from long range & Ben Cushing crashing through for buckets in the paint as they would open up a 12-2 lead early on. Slowly but surely through Carl Isitt on the boards & Alem Gebrekirstos controlling the paint and starting to find his range, Papanui hung tough to have STAC in the sights at quarter time and half time which would be key as foul trouble became a bit of a problem more so for STAC than for Papanui. Coming out of half time STAC would hold a 12 point lead but Papanui would keep fighting and connecting as the margin kept getting closer and closer. With less than a few minutes left Papanui would draw level as both teams would trade baskets and the lead before finally with about 30 seconds to go Papanui would convert their offense to grab a lead that would not be relinquished. STAC had a chance to tie the game with 25 seconds to go as they managed to force a steal but a shot with 13 seconds left would ring out and Papanui would calmly slot their free throws in the dying seconds to claim an U17 title in their 1st season. Watch out for some future talent coming through from both schools and the competition as a whole and also all the best to STAC as most of this team will be heading up to Palmerston North for nationals.

 

Scorers were:

Under 17 Grand-Final:

Papanui HS 71 (Alem Gebrekirstos 24, 5S, 4S, Jayden Britt 15, Carl Isitt 10, 5R, Gabriel O’Connor  10, 4A, Tane October 6, 14R, 6A, 2S) St Andrews College 67 (Jayden Chan 24, 8R, Ben Cushing 20, 16R, Tullan McGuiness 12, 11R, 5A). HT: Stac 43-34.

MVP: Tane October (Papanui).

Referees: Tom McLorinan and Hamish Dale.

 

 

Boy’s Under 15 Championship

 

2014 INAUGURAL Grand Champion: Shirley Spartens

 

Shirley Spartens crushed Cashmere HS 104-48.

A remarkable turn round has seen Shirley Spartens take the inaugural BU15 championship with a solid 104-48 win over Cashmere High in the Grand final, marking the start of a re-build by Shirley over the next few seasons.

The new grade offered this season attracted eight teams, proving highly successful.

Cashmere won the first round competition with a 73-68 win over Shirley Spartens in RR play and beating Gators in the Final. Cashmere repeated the win over Shirley in the championship round robin 73-67 and both teams had comfortable wins in the play-offs so much more was expected from Cashmere.

The Cam Chalmers coached Shirley side came out with four guns blazing in the final with the tall Isaiah Morris racking up the first 8 points and a triple as Shirley raced to a 28-10 lead by quarter-time. Joshua Thompson (11) and Oscar Toone (22) found wide gaps in the Cashmere defence as Shirley extended its lead to 52-20 by the turn around and pulled away from there.

 

Cashmere coach Paul Conner supplied this report.

After a successful season the final on Saturday was not our game. Shirley played beautiful basketball which our team had no answer for this time around.  Isaiah Morris played an outstanding game and brought the best out of his team mates, he was well deserving of the MVP for the final.
Our strong back line of Jake Bevan (11) and Thomas Russ Hoffman (9) were unable to stamp their authority on the game in the manner we'd come to rely on during the season. Up front Dylan Mahon- the ever ready driver and Quinten Conner never stopped trying all game with others chipping in. Some days it is just not to be and as a coach of a team that played some good basketball to finish both rounds top of the table, satisfaction needs to be taken from a more macro perspective.

This is the first year of the under 15 Saturday comp.  There was some great games played all round and every team grew along the way. Well done to those who initiated the development and bring on next season. Bigger and better. Paul

 

Referee Richard Kenny was watching from the scorebench

Shirley Boys proved far too strong for Cashmere boys on the day as Shirley's press just suffocated the life out of their opponents. Some big names in the Shirley line up to watch for the future include MVP Isaiah Morris and Oscar Toone (an 'underager' according to fellow scorebench official Craig Robinson). For Cashmere Jake Beaven when he's hot is one to watch and also Quinten Connor is one for the point to watch.

 

Scorers were:

Under 15 Grand Final:

Shirley Spartans 104 (Isiah Morris 29, Oscar Toone 22, Noah Westwood 13, Joel Jeffrey 12, Josh Thompson 11) Cashmere HS 48 (Jake Beaven 11, Thomas Russ-Hofmans 9). HT: 52-20. MVP: Isiah Morris (Shirley).

Referees: Amosa Faitaua-Nanai and Mathew Mischewski.

 

 Men’s Division One

 

2008/09 &2011/12 champion Placemakers Wolves

2010, 2013 Defending Champion Wolverines

2014 Grand Champion: Placemakers Pioneer

 

Saturdays Grand Final: Placemakers Pioneer 98 Pilipinas Askals 82.

 

Period scores: QT: Placemakers 27-23> HT: 50-49> 3QT: 77-61

Placemakers were forced to use the outside shot in the early stages against tight Pilpinas defence with Duncan and Cameron Costly, livewire Andrew Gebbie and Tyler Hunt all splashing the triple pointers while Simon Agpasa and Ruel Gantalau responded likewise.

Eventual MVP Cam Costley topped the sheet for Placemakers with a well-compiled 32 points putting his body through fast closing gaps and running his exhausted body on adrenalin right to the end. Placemakers, champions four times over the last seven years, know how to win the big games, having much of the same team together with Penani Alesana and Joe Hammond still getting up and down the court with ever slowing moves. With the tall  keyman Ariel Mepana injured for Askals, then Placemakers got more supply of the ball and attacked strongly.

Cris Benevice led the Askals proudly with an impressive 25 points, many baskets coming in the hectic final quarter allowing his team to match the opposition point for point but not able to close the gap.

A new entrant in the MD1 this season, the Askals can be very proud of their season’s performance after finishing 7^th in the round robin and working steadily upwards from there.

 

WOLVES DOMINATED OVER THE STRAY DOGS

Irwin Taganas, Filipino Basketball League – South Island sent in his report.

The much anticipated (Division One) finals game between the “Placemakers Wolverines” and “Pilipinas Askals” (“askals” translated in English to mean “stray dogs”) was a fight to find out who was the Alpha. It had created such a buzz within the Christchurch basketball community because the “Askals” is a new unknown team composed of players from the Philippines that have joined the CBA tournament for the first time and unexpectedly made it to the finals.

 

A few minutes before the game started, it became apparent that basketball in the Philippines is a family event as droves of adult Filipinos came in with children of all sizes, dressed in “Pilipinas” shirts to take their places in the bleachers. You can almost feel the excitement and tension while these supporters get ready to rally behind their team. As the hooter sounded to signal the jumpball, one side of the stadium almost filled to overflowing, with lots of people unable to find seats and many more still coming in.

 

It was a seesaw battle during the first 2 quarters of the game as both teams matched each other shot by shot. However, it became obvious towards the end that the Wolves’ size and height mattered over the Askals’ speed as the former struggled to match the latter’s strides and reach. At one point the Filipino coaches opted for a much smaller but faster lineup and managed to inch closer but wasn’t really able to take the lead. It went from bad to worse when the tallest player in the Askals team, Ariel Mepana 16, (injured his right ankle while favouring it over his already battered left ankle. The more experienced Wolverines took advantage of this opportunity and extended their lead.

 

Although it wasn’t the result they would have wanted, the Filipino players, coaches and supporters went home smiling, happy and satisfied that their team played with their heart and did their very best. A trophy would have been great but in their minds, they are already winners. This achievement would definitely be a powerful motivation for them to come back next season.

 

 Results were:

Men’s Division One Grand Final:

Placemakers 98 (Cameron Costley 32, Tyler Hunt 14, Joe Hammond 12, Andrew Gebbie 10) Pilipinas Askais 82 (Cris Benevice 25, Ariel Mepana 16, Eral Alotinto 13). HT: 50-49.

MVP: Cameron Costley (Placemakers).

Referees: Raewyn Willocks and Sam Dixon.

 

 Women’s

 Women’s Division One

With the WU20 now a standalone grade the CBA will be looking for more Women’s Div one teams for next season after the grade dropped to five entries

2008 & 2010  Champion Aranui Blue      2011 Gators Women

2012  Champion: Checkers       2009 & 2013 Defending  Champion: Royals

2014 Grand Champion: Minties

 

Minties upsets Royals 57-53, Royals first loss in two years.

Minties, another long term entrant in the Division one grade, brought a two year unbeaten run by the Cathy Hyland led Royals to an end when it came from behind in the final quarter to snatch an unlikely victory 57-52 in Saturday’s Grand Final leaving the Royals team rather gutted after high aspirations of winning another title, what would have been its fourth since beating Cashmere High in the 2009 Final.

For the record Royals was beaten by the strong Aranui Blue in the 2008 final, lost a semi in 2010 and climbed back only to be pipped by Gators 47-43 in the 2011 final. By 2012 Checkers snatched victory over Royals 54-49 in yet another final, the last time Royals had been beaten while Minties were on the re-build taking a top four placing.  Royals won the 2013 Final 48-36 over Minties after Minties had upset Checkers in the semi’s.

In round robin games this season between the two Minties kept to within 9 and 4 points of Royals early on but were well beaten 55-32 the last time they clashed.

Both teams survived the play-offs comfortably with Royals going into the Final with some comfort. They forged a narrow 15-13 lead by quarter-time through the efforts of Jo Casey and Hayley Fletcher while Jessica Rathgen kept Minties in touch. Royals extended the lead to 35-27 by the turn around feeding the ball to the eager hands of Casey. Estelle Uren found herself free to start a Minties claw-back while Pina Lissaman and Amiria Rule mopped up the loose ball from Royals turnovers.

After trailing 39-43 by the third break MVP Uren found larger openings in the usually tight Royal’s defence. Many of Minties have been playing together for most of the decade or more with Alana Pitama, Laura King and Erin Bensley all buddies from long back.

Before the game a nervous Cathy let slip that this may have to be her final game but I think with some pryde on the line she may yet bounce back for one more season. Go Cathy!!!

 

Wildcats assistant coach and Royals player Pina Lissaman sent in this report

It started off strong for both sides, Minties had a full strength team as did Royals. Jo Cassey for Royals, stamped her dominance from the first bucket on a foul shot but then Minties showed their game plan when a strong looking Amiri took the ball coast to coast in a fast break transition play.

It was anyone's game and Royals only had a marginal lead through out. Minties did a great job of shutting down any post play and forced Royals to shoot from the outside.

Estelle showing she could easily play for the Wildcats scoring 28 points by going strong to the basket and distributing the ball to team mates. Her cool, calm play dominated the last half keeping Royals on the back foot and eventually leading them to the victory in the last minutes of the game.

This would be Royals only loss in two seasons, Jo Cassey top scoring with 26 points. Minties played hard and came away with the win. 

Congratulations on a great Div one season to all teams!

 

Results were:

Division One Grand Final:

Minties 57 (Estelle Uren 28) Royals 53 (Jo Casey 26). HT: Royals 35-27.

MVP: Estelle Uren (Minties).

Refereees: Isaac Gilpin and Mikey Graham.

 

 Women’s Under 20 Championship

 

2012 & 2013 defending champion: University U20

 

2014 Grand Champion: University of Canterbury A

 

University of Canterbury A 86Burnside HS 48.

Esra McGoldrick (21) andPaige Willman (13) set the scene for the unbeaten University to power away for UC’s third successive championship title since the inception of the stand-alone grade in 2012. With eight teams this season the competition has been strong.

By quarter-time UC had pushed out to a 29-9 lead but the pace slowed in the next quarter with UC now leading 46-18. UC’s Sophie Schrader (12) finished with a flourish, hitting back-to-back threes in the final-quarter.

Burnside, a new comer to this competition, continued the uphill battle gamely through the efforts of Nicky Pio (24) with support from Zoe Gilpin and Bailey Chamberlain.

 

Results were:

Under 20 Grand Final:

University A 86 (Esra McGoldrick 21, Paige Willman 13, Sophie Schrader 12) Burnside HS 48 (Nicky Pio 24). HT: 46-18. MVP: Paige Willman (University).

Referees: Tanaysha Morris and Hayden Isitt.

  

Girls’s Under 15

 

2014 INAUGURAL Grand Champion: Wharenui Gators  

 

Saturdays Grand Final: Wharenui Gators 78 Checkers 50

Checkers played with all the hallmarks of a team on the build, showing great courage against the stronger Wharenui Gators. Malia Faitaua- Nanai penetrated deep through the Checkers defence to slot a game high 26 points for Gators with capable support from MVP Sila Morris while Hannah Glen and Courtney Maynard featured for Checkers.

 

Faith Harrison sent in this report

Wharenui Gators U15 Girls were unbeaten all season, this is a talented group of young players who gave their best always. Although at times they struggled with numbers when someone was away or injured each and every member stepped up when needed. They are a TEAM and supported and encouraged excellence in each other. Coached by Adele Morris who had a wonderful way of bringing out the best in each of these girls.

 

Opposing coach Terry Brunel sent in his report

The Gators lived up to the billing but had to fight off a determined Checkers team for three quarters of the contest until foul trouble caught up with Checkers. Gators pulled away only in the final quarter. Sila Morris and Malia Faitaua- Nanai were strong throughout while Checkers got major contributions from Hannah Glen and Courtney Maynard before they both fouled out. Gators completed an unbeaten season.

 

Results were:

Under 15 Grand Final:

Wharenui Gators 78 (Malia Faitaua- Nanai 26, Sila Morris 14, Connie Taylor 12) Checkers 50 (Hannah Glen 13, Courtney Maynard 12, Olivia Knowles 10). HT: 34-25.

MVP: Sila Morris (Wharenui Gators).

Referees: Brad Blackler and Bailey Spooner

 

Junior All Stars Competition Grand Finals

This year’s competition attracted two new entries from North Canterbury Tar Heels and Selwyn Raiders training centres along with the established Eastern Wolverines (Cowles), Bishopdale Y, Wharenui Gators and Pioneer Pacers where the best of their trainees are selected for an All Stars team. Each week over five Sundays competition took place in Pioneer stadium and they also used Junior trainee referees.

From there the top two teams were set to battle it out on Clubs Grand finals day with some interesting results showing all is well in the breeding ground for future Rams and Wildcats and even some may reach higher honours or go off sure for scholarships in US of A and beyond.

 

This year Wharenui Gator’s stranglehold on the titles was more evenly shared. Bishopdale Y took both the Yr 5/6 Finals, Gators won one and lost won in the Girls along with the GU15 title while North Canterbury Tar Heels also stepped forward winning the Yr 7/8 Boys. Tar Heels other two finalists went close too but was edged by Bisholdale in the Yr 5/6 Boys and by Gators in the Yr 7/8 Girls

 

All Stars Yr 7-8 Boys Final: North Canterbury Tar Heels 50 (Conor McFarlane 17, Mason Whittaker 11, Cannan Tarawa 10) Pioneer Pacers 49 (Oki Fialele 23). HT: Pioneer 25-17. MVP: Conor McFarlane (North Canterbury).

Referees: Amosa Faitaua-Nanai and Brad Blackler.

After trailing for most of the game, North Canterbury Tar Heels also stepped forward ih the Yr 7/8 Boys Grand Final, coming from behind, just like the pro’s, to pip Pioneer 50-49 in the closing moments and Cowles roof almost lifted skyward, such was the noise. Tar Heels Connor McFarlane  was chosen MVP of the final scoring most of his 17 points in a strong second half fight back and sinking two pressure free throws to win the match in the closing moments.

 

All Stars Yr 7-8 Girls Final: Gators 43 (Sila Morris 12, Malia Faitaua-Nanai 11) North Canterbury Tar Heels 36 (Riley Harrison 11). HT: 27-18.

MVP: Malia Faitaua-Nanai (Gators).

Referees: Connie Taylor and Jakob Eder.

 

Faith Harrison sent in this report

Wharenui Gators Year 7/8 Girls Allstars had a great group of girls who were really willing to listen and learn from coaches Rachel Harrison and Adele Morris who made a great coaching team. These girls were a mixture of those who have been playing for a few years and new comers to the game this season. The players came from Rangi Ruru, Kirkwood , Middleton Grange, Villa Maria, Kaiapoi and Hillview Christian schools. It is awesome to see girls playing good basketball and loving the game and to have good role models on court with Sila Morris, Sophia Harrison, Ella Gardiner and Malia Faitaua-Nanai all helping develop the newcomers.

 

All Stars Yr 5-6 Boys Final: Bisholdale YMCA 42 (Jackson Rhodes 17) North Canterbury Tar Heels 34 (Josh Larey 11, Joseph Mathews 11). HT: 22-13.

MVP: Jackson Rhodes (Bisholdale YMCA).

Referees: Brad Cilve and Angus McWiliam

 

 All Stars Yr 5-6 Girls Final: Bishopdale YMCA 62 (Holly Wratt-Groeneweg 28) Wharenui Gators 28 (Maia Williamson 8, Kate Hastings 8). HT: 26-10.

MVP: Holly Wratt-Groeneweg (Bishopdale).

Referees: Alice Mathews and Jakob Eder.

 

Faith Harrison sent in this report

Wharenui Gators year 5/6 Girls Allstars went through unbeaten until the final where they were overwhelmed by a well drilled YMCA Bishopdale team. Gators were led well by their only experience player Mia Williamson. These girls became excited about playing the game so look good for the future.

Terry Brunel added to the story

Bishopdale was far too good for Gators in this one with Holly Groeneweg dominating play with a display of left and right handed drives that cut Gators apart. Maia Williamson and Kate Hastings tried hard for Gators but Bishopdale were just too strong.

 

 Mid-week Men

2009-2010-2011 & 2013 Defending Champion Checkers White

 

2014 Grand Champion: Checkers White

Checkers White retained its mid-week title but playing without its tall centre Paul Isitt Checkers White struggled to keep a fast closing Checkers Red at bay before claiming its fifth title by the narrow margin of 63-57. Nigel Buchanan with 22 points won the players award.

Checkers Red were the new comers to the competition and after a rough introduction to more structured basketball improved greatly week by week.

 

Results were:

Mid-week championship Grand finals:

Grand Final: Checkers White 63 (Nigel Buchanan 22, Colin Penny 12, Terry Brunel 12) Checkers Red 57 (Logan Taylor 13, Tristan Brady 13, Hamish Anderson 11, Michael Spurdle 10, Nick Earl 10),

Play-off for 3^rd place: University 59 (David Baird 21, Jason Rivett 11) Atami 48 (Glen Rouse 19, Jeremy Phillips 13)

 

 

 Mid- week Women

 

2014  Defending Champion : CYA

2014 Grand Champion: Halswell Red

 

Halswell Red proved too strong for Checkers in the Mid-week final and regained the title it lost to CYA last season with a slow 36-21 win after trailing Checkers 9-13 at half-time. CYA was extended by University before finishing third after an out of touch Carmel Gunn slotted a basket late in the extra period to win 29-27.

Scorers were:

Grand Final: Halswell Red 36 (Jo Mumm 9, Gina Papahadjis 8) Checkers 21

 

Briar Metcalf sent in this report.

Checkers Blackhawks had a great season, building momentum with solid
steady win's over the season and after losing by only 1 point to
Halswell, relished facing them in the Grand Final.
Checkers came out strong from the start with a huge defence, making the
most of any opportunity when they got the ball in their hands. This took them into half time being ahead.
Halswell having lost the final last season came out from half time determined
to shake Checkers up and did so by switching to a solid man on defence, which saw
them regain possession, slow Checkers progress and claw back to be ahead
at the final whistle.
With solid team efforts by both teams it was a gutsy, thrilling game to watch for
both teams supporters.