State squad members were put through their paces with a series of on court training sessions, combined with fitness testing, time trials and small group sessions across the weekend.

On Saturday evening both squads were involved in exhibition games at the Jamestown basketball stadium, with the U/18 State women kicking off at 6.00pm against Central Districts ABL Women.  The Centrals outfit were missing a few key players, but this didn’t seem to unsettle them in the opening quarter, with Head Coach Winston Folland employing several different defensive looks, trying to slow down the SAC transition game. Unfortunately the fatigue of travel and heat finally caught up with the determined metro outfit, with the margin extended in the final quarter.  SAC Head Coach Stephen Patterson was extremely pleased with the game, and the form of guard Aneeka Smith who has missed the past two years through illness. Paterson stated "our preparation will now intensify as we look at improvements in our overall game and personnel, a very pleasing first hit out".

Results

SAC (62)  defeated  Central Districts (46)

The men’s game again featured the tough Australian Defence Force team against the State U/18 men, this game was indeed a showcase event. In the past two encounters the SAC team has been successful, with last year’s challenge game at Minlaton resulting in a 5 point win.  The ADF State team again coached by former SA Country identity John Spooner and led by point guard Tim Muehlberg proved they were out to take the 2010 Challenge game with a quick and physical start to the contest. The game was played at a frantic pace much to the delight of the local crowd, with a great show of athleticism and perimeter shooting from both teams. The ADF team took the lead in the dying minutes of the game, but unfortunately were inaccurate from the free throw line allowing the SAC team back in the game.  The final result was a 1 point victory to SAC Coach Paul Salter’s team.

Results

SAC (69) defeated ADF State team (68)

SACBC would like to acknowledge the Jamestown Basketball Association, Ben Moss, Trevor Bertram and their team of volunteers for their help and support across the weekend camp. Special thanks also to the Central Districts Basketball club and the Australian Defence Force team for their attendance and support with the exhibition games.

SACBC selectors will now meet, with the teams and reserves for the  2010 Australian National Championships being selected from this camp.