Buccs slam South West (Saturday Night Wrap)
Geraldton Buccaneers made a strong statement in their first match of the men's State Basketball League season, thrashing country rivals South West Slammers by 38 points on Saturday night.
The Buccaneers endured a tough 2011 season, which saw them miss the playoffs for just the second time in their proud history, but showed they could be big improvers in the 108-70 win against last year's wooden spooners.
Geraldton took control of the game early, taking a 16 point advantage to the main break, before cruising home on the back of Aaron Ralph's 35 points and 13 rebounds. The Buccaneers complete their two-match road-trip against Mandurah on Sunday.
Fellow country side Goldfields Giants were less convincing against Rockingham Flames, but still did enough to win 90-81.
The Giants, who were led by Dwayne Radcliffe (25 points), Ryan Hulme and Ty Harrelson (both 17), face Stirling at midday Sunday.
Reigning minor premier Lakeside Lightning made it two wins from two round one games by holding off a gallant East Perth Eagles side 103-87.
The Lightning followed up their 47-point mauling of Rockingham on Friday with a solid yet unspectacular display, as Luke Payne (31 points) top-scored.
New import Jordan Wild had 28 points and 11 rebounds to help Wanneroo make a successful start to its title defence with a 110-95 win over the Eastern Suns.
Elsewhere, Perth miraculously overcame a 19-point deficit to beat Cockburn 91-88 and Rob Kampman had 27 points to help Willetton to a 118-91 victory over Stirling.
In women's action, Lakeside stunned 2011 runner-up East Perth with a 64-53 away victory, its second win of the opening round.
Perth came from behind in the final minute of regulation time to beat Cockburn in a 74-63 overtime thriller thanks to Marita Payne's 25 points and 10 rebounds.
Defending champions Willetton thrashed Stirling 103-65, with West Coast Waves captain Melissa Marsh starring with 26 points, and Wanneroo beat Kalamunda 67-61.
Article by Jacob Kagi
Photo by Helen Theoharakis (Hoop Shots)
Comments
Comment Guidelines: The SportsTG Network is made up of players, families and passionate sports followers like you who have a strong opinion about sport. That's great - we want you to have your say and share your thoughts with the world. However, we have a few rules that you must follow to keep it fun for all. Please don't be rude, abusive, swear or vilify others. Apart from some pretty serious sport sanctions, we also can ban you and report you if things get out of hand. So play fair and have fun, and thanks for your contribution.