Dennis’ Computers Townsville Flames vs Maroochydore Clippers - Saturday 14 July, 6pm,
Townsville put an end to their five-game losing streak last week, taking out both their matches over the Gold Coast Rollers and South West Metro Pirates. They’ll be looking for a repeat performance on their home turf when they take on the Clippers. Maroochydore have the odds against them after coming off a loss against Mackay last week, and also having to bounce back after taking on a strong Cairns side on Friday night. Going in with underdog status, the Clippers will no doubt give it all they’ve got in this clash, looking for big performances from the whole roster, but in particular from their top scorers Jessica Gajewski, Gabby Walk and Isoa-Jade Cook. With the Clippers keen to improve their season record, the Flames will need to ensure they put some big points on the board, with Lisa Braunberger looking to emulate her 25-point performance from last week, backed up by Aroon Edgar, Kayla Ward and Alicia Froling who have all put in solid games in recent weeks. With both teams keen to get another win to their names, neither side is likely to leave anything on the court in Townsville.

Townsville McDonald’s Heat vs Maroochydore Clippers - Saturday 14 July, 8pm                                                      With their win/loss record now at five apiece, the Heat have lost a lot of ground on the ladder in recent weeks, in stark contrast to their five straight wins at the beginning of the season. After going down to the Gold Coast and South West Metro last week, they’ll sure to be keen to break their losing streak this week, particularly at home. They hold the advantage over the Clippers, with Maroochydore coming off the back of another loss in Round 8, and having to back up from a tough encounter with Cairns on Friday night. Townsville have been without three of their star players of late, with Chris Cedar sitting out last week, and Mitch Norton and Todd Blanchfield away on Australian representative duties overseas—but all three are set to return to the team this week, giving the Heat a significant boost. The Clippers will need the likes of Malakai Mitchell and Zeke Meehl to be in top form and consistently find the basket if they’re to get the win, as well as guidance and direction from player/coach Gianni Costantiello. If Townsville are at full-strength and have their three best on hand, it’ll be tough going, particularly on the Heat’s home court. Maroochy will need to improve their percentages at the perimeter if they’re to match Townsville’s three-pointer ability, or take advantage of their big post players and secure more second-chance points under the basket.