Dandenong Rangers captain Kane Annesley read the players’ oath, and Renee Charlton reading the officials’ oath. Local dance group DESTRUCT gave a terrific performance for the athletes, and the many spectators that attended the ceremony. Dandenong Rangers senior player David Godfrey spoke to the group about what it means to represent your club at the U14 Championships, and encouraged all participants to get to know their fellow players and strive to be the next big thing in Australian basketball. Basketball Australia High Performance Manager Wayne Carroll officially opened the tournament, which saw three games played on Day 1 of the championships.
Game 1 – Pool B – Townsville Heat vs Dandenong Rangers
Dandenong got off to a brisk start, establishing a 19 to 8 opening quarter lead. The host team maintained their advantage in the second with quick ball movement and rebounding, however their foul trouble was a concern. The 3rd quarter saw Townsville put in a much tougher showing, attacking the basket strongly, but the Rangers maintained their double digit lead. The final term saw the Rangers dominate the rebounding and secure the win. Trent Miles (Towns) led with 23 points, Joshua Spiers had 14 points, all 11 Dandenong players scored, led by Corey Mackie with 13 points, Kane Annesley 10
Final score: Dandenong 68 defeated Townsville 45
Game 2 – Pool B –Albury Cougars vs Knox Raiders
Knox was the first team to score in the opening contest, and took a 20 to 6 lead at quarter time. Knox played a very strong team game, their size a decisive factor over the Cougars. Albury began the second period well, but Knox responded with a 10 – 0 run near half time to lead 37 to 14. Jacob Cincurak worked hard rebounding strongly, but Knox was a far stronger team throughout the game and recorded a healthy win. Knox had 4 scorers in double figures, with Marek Toman leading with 19 points, Jayden Hawkes 13. For Albury Jacob Cincurak with 20 points
Final score: Knox 75 defeated Albury 38
Game 3 – Pool B – Stirling Senators vs North West Tasmania
Both teams started well, a highlight for North West Tasmania was a buzzer beating basket to take an 8 point lead into the first break. The second term saw Stirling find their shooting range from outside, while North West Tasmania continued to dominate inside. Despite plenty of offensive rebounds and steals, North West was unable to capitalise. Senators’ players Callum Saunders and Zach Levey provided good teamwork and scoring to keep them in the game, however North West managed to control the final minutes to win. For North West Joshua Kaine scored 14 points, Cameron Brown 13, while for Stirling Callum Saunders led all scorers with 19 points, and Zach Levy 10.
Final score: North West Tasmania 58 defeated Stirling 44
Official Championship Website
Photo courtesy of Kangaroo Photos
