Lee Roberts has been back for a couple of weeks now. Why hasn't he suited up?

Timms back for the Suns....Belger to be here this weekend or the next....The Suns are going to be damn scary.

Some fascinating results over the weekend.

Honestly not sure what the biggest shock was, Trahair's 'magic' troops beating Geraldton with their Mgt seen browsing Seek.com post game, or the Eastern Suns belting the suddenly vulnerable looking Senators - both results clearly departed from the script.

Serious fire power to come into the League -

Lakeside adding Alexander propels them into top 4 status, an incredible result to get him back after his SEABL and G-League performances.

Roberts a Grand Final MVP and delivers consistently. Said to be short of a David (Gallop) at the moment, but won't take a star long to settle in. The Redbacks wheels are falling off so Lee adds class and leadership when plenty appears lacking internally.

Earnest Ross, NBL experience and built for power. Could genuinely help the Buccs get the chip (not the one on their shoulder).


Strap yourselves in - All-Star game, if respected by clubs, should be a cracker! Go the Mighty South

When do all star starters get announced?

Hi everyone, I was wondering if any of you have children playing wabl and if you do what are the approximate fees for a season of juniors competition? Any help would be greatly appreciated

$400 a season per child? That is steep, that league must be made up of the kids with the richest parents and not the most talented kids.

Looks like reports of the Mandurah Magic men's team pushing for the playoffs was very premature after they take another 30 point blow out loss on their home court. Slammers win in Kalgoorlie which means another Slammers would see the Magic at the bottom of the ladder.. again!

Congratulations to Wolves skipper Seb Salinas on 400 games this weekend.

Has led the club through an impressive period of success and remains a humble and hard working guy - always the first to have a beer with people post-game, and can still put up numbers & quickly that make teams closely scout him after all these years

Good luck Sebba - here's to many more!

^so he is a drunk? yeah well done...

Moron comment ^

Standard fare here.

Anonymous
A few hours ago

^so he is a drunk? yeah well done...

Are you drunk or just really stupid?

Yes, both coaches do a 3-2-1, as do the referees.

Coaches can vote for their own players, so the maximum a player can get in a game is 9 votes.

After Cooper Hamilton's instagram post today, no way this kid isn’t the face of the league in 2-3 years time. #myvoteformostimproved

I Stay hungry, Ill be MVP in 2 Years, NBL in 3. Watch out Australia I'm coming

Another metro team (with contacts) gets stronger, while 3 of the 4 regional teams languish at the bottom of the ladder.

I think you will find Cockburn isn't paying Steindl because the Wildcats want him to play somewhere.

This is all happening at the Wildcats request and Cockburn simply put their hand up to take him on board.

Tough weekend for rockingham but they played 2 of the better teams in the league. Anyone know why we can't see the stats of their game against the buccs?

I figures it was common sense to people that Steindl is obviously restricted. So that means apart from Cockburn he could only really join East Perth. Unless I'm missing someone else?

He obviously just wants to get some reps in before NBL while he’s in town. Good on him. I imagine he’s the same as Standish and will be away towards back end of season.

Good fit, Stop whinging.

Chan, Pesava, Steindl, Field and Import is hell of a starting unit.

Joondalup
Gerro
Perth
Perry Lakes
Rocko
Lakeside
Willo
Cockburn
Stirling

There’s your 9 someone has to miss playoffs.

Best arms in the league are most definitely Damion Scott

No he doesn't get paid! From the club or any Sponsor. Has had offers from other clubs but chooses to be loyal.

You Know The Rules!!

"THE BOYS AT REDBACKS DON'T GET PAID"

HAHAHA....HAHAHAHAHAHAA.......HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

(Removed at the request of the author.)

Suns with another top 6 victory....Belger back for them now. Lets see if they can find some consistency.

More impressive is the Suns were down 34-13 at one point in the 1st. Great win on the road

Michaels is Australian. His father is for SBL MVP and Wildcat, Dewey Michaels who's family got citizenship before they went back to the States.

It wouldnt be Parsons fault that the Hawks are struggling it must be the players .The guys a two time COY so he shouldnt be concerned at all...

The team has a former league MVP, 2 ex wildcats DP's, a current wildcats DP, 3 guys with div 1 college experience, solid experienced role players... how is it not parsons fault ?

Fun question, What teams have been better/worse than expected this year? What players has surprised you? MVP favourite at the moment?

Lakeside vs Redbacks (Mens)

Considering Lakeside pulled down 49 rebounds to Redbacks 26, that would normally be enough to win you a game.

I did not see the game, but from the stats, Lakeside committed 26 fouls, sending the Redbacks to the line to score 19 of 26.

Hussey & Redhage drawing 14 of the 26 fouls, it would suggest that the Lakseide defence could not handle the more experienced duo. With Redhage one of the best for milking the fouls.

Must have been a good game though.

I was at the lightning v redbacks game and witnessed a flopping master class from redhage and hussey, with the WABL level refereeing falling for it.
the refs gave the veteran redbacks roster and lacko to much respect.

Fisher should never be getting kicked out of a game when you're down by 40 each week and players missing open court layups and turning the ball over every second possession. Not the refs fault!

COUGARS LET THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG

The Cockburn Basketball Association is welcoming a game changer.

The Prestige Honda Cockburn Cougars are proud to announce the addition of Perth Wildcat and Australian Boomers squad member Clint Steindl to the men's State Basketball League program.

Fresh off his first season with the Perth Wildcats, Steindl stands for everything the Cougar Family represents on and off the court.

With a National Basketball League career average of 40% from the perimeter, he will be a welcome addition to a Cougar squad already boasting some of the league’s best local contingent.

Alongside Cougar Captain, MVP contender and three-time SBL All-Star Gavin Field, Steindl will provide a match-up headache for opposition teams.

Add in import Brandon Sebirumbi and talented locals Julian Pesava, Seva Chan and Jake Knight, you’re looking at an imposing Cougar line-up for the remainder of the 2018 season.

The Perth Wildcats have a proud history of bringing in talent of quality character, and the Cougar Family paints itself with that same brush.

Steindl makes his debut in Cougar colours this Saturday night away against the East Perth Eagles, followed by his first game in front of a Sea of Blue this Sunday as they take on the Willetton Tigers.

I think it's actually RAMPPPPP for Really Average Men Providing Pretty P!$$ Poor Performances

Oh that's why old mate couldnt remember the P!!

^^^
Thanks for watching and helping them to get 13,000+ views that Hawks TV has had in its first 6 weeks!

Seems it is very popular and people like to see a behind the scenes look at the up and downs and funny side of an SBL team through the season.

What new and innovative things are you or your team doing to promote the SBL

Since they started HawksTV they have lost more than they have won. One has to ask is the exposure and self endorsement of the League really worth it when its affecting your very ability to get Ws? Yo we had a cool video blog each week but we didn't play finals isn't something Parsons can use to the Hawks board in the season review i am guessing

Lakeside rebound count is always over exaggerated when Prue plays, its always been like that. They count his tips to advantage as rebounds.

Now that Cockburn have Steindl are we still staying with the nobody gets paid at Cockburn thing??

Asking for a friend!!

Could one please explain how "self endorsement of the the league" works? Also, could one please provide the proof that the above "self endorsement of the the league" is affecting the Hawks ability to get W's?
I'm from Ireland, so I need an in-depth explanation in English for Dummy's.

Who has the bigger ego - Ettridge or Lackovic? Asking for a friend.

Best locals based on this year:
1. Field
2. Hussey
3. Scott
4. Ellis
5. Williamsom

Redhage doesnt count lol. Cummings, Purser, Prue and Illadis all still in the convo too. Cummings misses out cause he only plays one end of the court. Purser has an argument over Ellis. Illadis still a great shooter just hasn't been as consistent on this year

Haven't seen it publicised anywhere, but looks like the Eagles have picked up another import.

Anthony Golden who's been playing in Darwin.

https://www.facebook.com/9NewsDarwin/videos/1803719129667051/UzpfSTMyOTg4NzAxMzcxMDc3MToxOTg3MTE4MzU0NjU0Mjg3/

WSBL Round 10 Preview

Lightning @ Magic

1 v 3 block buster. Lighting (9-1) coming off a split weekend and a tough home loss to Redbacks. Imports Fipps (22ppg) and Swags (23ppg) in good form this year and addition of 6'3 Sam Roscoe into the line up after a successful England stint boosts the title favourites. But the real test is beating Mandurah in Mandurah, last years semi final contest, Mandurah won in 3 games, twice at home. The Magic losing Boag has hurt their inside/ out firepower with big Import Palusna slowly adjusting to the league. Magic are lead by 25ppg scorer Anita Brown. Massive Game but lakeside have 5 threats on the floor to record a close win tonight by 7.

Redbacks @ flames

2 v 5 matchup. Redbacks have been irresistible this season with the BIG 3 of Pirini, Standish and Dyer and coach Nix really locking in their game plan. Standish the MVP favourite at 21ppg 10 rpg and coming off a massive 35p game v lightning. Flames are now back in the groove with both import Lloyd ( 26ppg) and Harrison (16ppg) and add the under rated Allen in the middle the team is looking good. I’m picking Flames with home court by 10.

Wolves @ Tigers

Wolves are struggling for consistency this year lead by a mostly local group and veterans Amos, Ironmonger and Martin. The bench depth has been an issue and maintaining early game intensity and scoring production. Tigers are quietly moving to a 6-2 record with a decent roster that boasts size, scoring ability and depth. AJ jones, Former MVP Sam Norwood, Harper along with imports Cotton and Payne starting to find their feet. Tigers too deep at home for big win 20+

Magic @ Suns

Magic coming off a tough Friday night game to head up the hill. Suns are on a 4 game winning streak and my smokey to play semi-finals in 2018. Suns if Jessie Edwards returns will form a 3 way wall with Rintala and Ciabattoni to cause teams real issues. Young gun Jewel Williams (12ppg) relishing her starting role and depth in Smith and King. The pairing of Rintala (19ppg 10 rebs) and Ciabattoni (20ppg 9 rebs) gives this team a title threat chance. Edwards will be a huge addition, the 6-3 big coming off a good Senior season at Uni of Minnesota playing 17 mins a game. Magic will be cooked and Suns ready to eat in this one. Suns by 15.

Tigers @ Cougars

Tigers on the back of a double for this Sunday game. Cougars have surprised a little in picking up 3 wins so far this season including against last years champs Perry Lakes. Lead by import Kisha Lee (21ppg 10 rebs) and young Lynx squad member Issy Miotti and team is not the easy beats. Tigers have too many weapons for the young team, the match up of Lee v Payne will be a good one. Tigers by 15

Slammers @ Stirling

Slammers are gonna play finals this year lock that in. I have been impressed with the way coach Harper has this team playing structured ball. The team is lead by the decent import pairing of Van Kleef (16ppg) and Fisher (8p 8 rebs) but the team for the first time in a while has real depth in young guards Denehey (14ppg)and the future star Tayah Burrows (12ppg) providing great poise and control. Add in the reliable Bayless (13ppg and 7 rebs) and the team will cause issues come finals. Stirling is another team in the mix for the 5-8 seed this season. Coach Clarke has recruited well in bringing in the experience Jorre De St Jorre and returned import Jasmin Martin. Amber Land (15ppg 10 rebs) is ever reliable and a good mix of youth in Jones (9ppg) and exciting young big Berringal-Cox. The form of the team comes with new import Janee Johnson, the former Seton Hall and Duke player has the physical tools to dominate the league. However she has struggled to adjust to the style of refereeing (10ppg 7 rebs) in 27 Mins of time. If Johnson can take a step forward in the second half of the year this team could push for a top 4 finish. This is a close one and im going with coach Clarke to get the home win by 5.

WOW!!! Look at this star strutted lakeside group. They've found their mojo and are heading for top spot. Our prayers have been heard amen. Lakeside to go undefeated for rest of the season. Thoughts ? Such a great core of young talent. Beautiful. Holy smokes they are great to watch.

What's wrong with east perth. Donlagic and Managang 0 mins

Donlagic and Manyang were not at the game hence why they didn't play

We just had a list of best locals in SBL, who are the best players in SBL?

Here's my list of the best players from this season. Hard to limit the list to a few players especially for forwards. I tried to pick 5 guards and 10 forwards/centers but had a little more for each. Feel free to agree/disagree

Guards:
Jackson Hussey PG
John Isenbarger SG
Justin King PG
Gokul Natesan SG
Damien Scott PG
Shaun Stewart PG

Forwards/Centers:
Daniel Alexander PF
Jalen Billups C
Jay Bowie SF
Kevin Davis C
Gavin Field SF
Greg Hire PF
Shawn Redhage PF
Joshua Ritchart
Earnest Ross SF
Jeylyn Sharpe SF
Brian Voelkel SF

Steindl getting injured...... #gamechanger #socialmediajinx

*****WSBL Round 11 Preview*****

Haters can skip reading now :)

Wolves @ Hawks

10th placed Joondalup last round got spanked on the road to the Tigers to the tune of 40 points and really need to start making a move to stay in the finals hunt. At 4-7 they can't afford to lose to teams at the lower end of the ladder. This week they get their chance against the 11th place Hawks at home. Nat Burton is back for the Hawks after her Euro stint and the WNBL player wasted no time dropping 17 and 13 in her first game back, but this wasn’t enough to beat the surging Slammers. Hawks are now at full strength and another week at training will get them back to some level of their championship form. Amos v Jeffers, Farnworth v Martin, Burton v Ironmonger in this even clash. I’m calling the upset if it can be! with the defending Champs getting their season going again... Hawks by 12.

Tigers @ Flames *Game of the Week*

Both teams in red hot form after wins in round 10. 4th placed Flames knocked off Perth at home led by D’Lesha Lloyd 26p 8 rebs as coach Petrik again finds quality imports to bring in. Allen with 16 rebounds helped slow Redback’s Standish who had a relatively quiet 15 points. Tigers got 2 wins over the weekend pushing them up into 2nd spot with an 8-2 record on the back of solid efforts from Ajay Johnson and import Payne. But it was a solid contribution with 5 double figure scorers in both wins over Joondalup and Cockburn. This game is a cracker with the depth of Willetton against the standout trio of Allen- Lloyd and Harrison. This game will be decided inside 10 points and home court comes into play... Almost feel this will go to OT…Flames by 6 in the Hot House.

Redbacks @ Senators

This one gets interesting in that talk is of Standish missing a month with wedding duties (Congrats) leaving the Redbacks real small for next few weeks. The Senators are starting to find form having a convincing 45 point win over the struggling Eagles. Young gun Cate Jones with 17 points. But Redbacks still have talent on the floor and Mikaela Dyer will have to step up the scoring load in Standishs absence. The Backcourt of Pirini and Dyer will be too strong and I can’t see Stirling having the offensive advantage on the glass with Johnson yet to have a dominant game… Redbacks in a close game by 8.

Hawks @Redbacks

Both teams will be coming off a game the night before that will test the depth of both teams. Both having tough matchups. If no Standish, Burton should have a night out, but if they both play its an epic matchup in the middle. I cant see the Hawks putting up the points in in this one unless Farnworth has 25+. Dyer the difference in the two teams. .. Redbacks by 10.

Magic @ Wolves

The Magic are in a world of pain losing Milo after quarter time and get spanked by Lakeside on their home floor and injury concerns to a number of players in the group. Giant Palusna is great pick up with the loss of Boag but she won’t be putting up stats north over 18ppg. Brown is in a form slump as teams start to lock her down and really needs to carry the scoring load in the next few weeks. I can’t see this happening but Wolves are not putting the offensive numbers up either. This game could be a real struggle. Magic are down and out and losing Milo hurts in many ways…. Wolves to split the weekend with a win… just.. by 8.

Flames @ Eagles

This is a long year for the young Eagles as they have been blown out in every game with the closest margin being a 23p loss to wolves. Coach Fisher took over the team this year with the intent to build a youth foundation for future growth. However the lack of even one seasoned veteran to teach the teens have hurt this year. No imports and no frontline Australians is making this a cause for concern the WSBL, Thankfully it looks like they are bringing in a 6’1 Forward import who will be suiting up this weekend. Good news for everyone. Hopefully it makes this game competitive. For the Flames this is the second game of the weekend and they will cruise to an easy victory… Flames by 50+

Lightning @ Cougars

Wow the lightning went to work Friday night in a top of the table clash against Mandurah. Last year the Magic won two home games to bundle Lakeside out of the semi-finals and there may have been some fears to play at what I think is the best home court in the league. After a tight first half (42-42) the lightning found their rhythm outscoring the magic 58-22 on the back of a dominant Ali Achwagmeyer 30p (10 of 14) Fipps 22p and Grant 17p. Magic giant Palusna gave some early issues scoring 17p but has to play more than 27 minutes to keep the Magic in the game. Anita Brown had a hard night out scoring 17 points on 4 of 16 shooting with 2 points at the half. The lightning at 10-1 are clearly the league title favourites.

The Cougars are coming off a 20p loss to the Tigers and are lead by the scoring machine Kisha Lee who is averaging 21p and 9rebs a game. However outside of Moyes (12ppg) there is not much help on this team this year. This could blow out early as the lightning push to maintain form. Miotti will have a had battle guarding Fipps. Lee will need to score 35+ to make this competitive. Lakeside by 40.

Senators @ Tigers

Two coaching adversaries Clarke and Parker clash again in a game that could be closer than the respective ladder positions. Who will recover the best as both teams are coming off tough Friday night matchups. Some good matchups in Ajay Jones v Martin, Johnson v Pane, Land v Harper. Tigers are deep this year with Norwood, Cotton, Napier and Kelly providing key roles in the team. I’m going with home court and too much bench rotations… Tigers by 17.

Top 10 players in the SBL:
Bowie
Ritchart
Alexander
Davis
Field
Natesan
Billups
Belger
Barrow
Ross

Is it me or has anyone else noticed that MSBL has a lot more talent at the front court spots than the back court ones. There's a handful of really good guards but there are so many high quality forwards and centers. You would think otherwise based on how the trend of basketball is moving towards guard play. Coaches are going to have a really tough time voting for an all star 5 at the end of the season for forwards and center positions.

8-9 wins will get you in the 8 in WSBL. Hawks at 1-9 need to go 7-4 to get a look. Interesting they still have Redbacks x2, Willetton x 2 and Flames in that run.

Loss to the wolves Friday could end their season!

Matacz same direction doesnt matter

Kevin Davis's alley oop. You literally have to foul him once he's jumped.

Jarrad Prue two hand shove to grab every offensive rebound without ever getting called for it

Jake Burston bounce pass

Burton? No. Replace her with Anita Brown.

If the league were serious about the 3 point contest being a true spectacle, this is who I would have in it:
Men: R Mckenzie (Lakeside); B Smith (Perth); T Iliadis (Joondalup); R Smith (Perry Lakes); A Ralph (Geraldton)
Women: C Mihovilovich (Mandurah); A Schwagmeyer (Lakeside); J Bourne (Rockingham); J Smith (Kalamunda); E Berryman (Stirling)

Throw in one from each team and make it more competitive with some bragging rights added to it (NOR v SOR). Just because two of the guys are shooting higher % for the first time in the career doesn't make them the best shooters in the league.

Lets go Lakeside, I be gettin dem boards and smashing dem dunkz!!!!!! We comin fo da top spot. Jack Briston 4 Willow is a sucka MC all my real homiez kno its da trooth.

Rocko spending up big to buy that chip

Ritchart has a broken foot, could explain White's arrival. Is Ritchart done for the year now? Big loss for the Flames if he is

Yes unfortunately josh is done for the year. Kevin to play his first game for the club tonight vs Willo down here

or you could look at it half full and compare the SBL guys who have left to SEABL this and see how they are going
oh look most have same or better stats in SEABL than SBL , so SBL must be not too bad then

Tre Nicolas 27.3, 3.7, 5.2 in SEABL v 25.2,4,.1 in SBL last year
DKD 25.8,4.2,3.4 Seabl v 21, 5.2, 2.5 SBL
RAy Turner 24,11,1

or you could look at it half full and compare the SBL guys who have left to SEABL this year and see how they are going
most have same or better stats in SEABL this year than SBL last year , so SBL must be not too bad then

Tre Nicolas 27.3, 3.7, 5.2 in SEABL v 25.2,4,.1 in SBL last year
DKD 25.8,4.2,3.4 Seabl v 21, 5.2, 2.5 SBL
Ray Turner 24,11,1 seabl v 25,12,1 SBL
Mason Bragg 20.1 ,6.4,4.9 seabl v 14.6, 3.9, 5.1 SBL
Vague 17,8.6, 1.4 seabl v 18, 8, 3.1 SBL

Does anyone know why Jay Bowie hasn't been playing for Wilo?

Because hussey is on more money than wagner and has alot more ego to manage too??

Head to head Hussey is barely the small bit of fluff that gets stuck in Wags belly button cavity.

Josh Garlep for most valuable ginger (MVG)

No freaking way in hell Fipps is better than Schwag. Schwag is a better rebounder, defender, scorer, ball handler etc. Fipps is a better shooter, thats it. They compliment each other great.

WSBL Mid-Season Power Rankings

1. Lakeside Lightning 11-1 Predicted Finish 1st

The hunter has become the hunted with Mansfield bringing back the core of last years Semi-final team with additions of vets Courtney Byrnes, Mel Moyle and Lizel Buckley. In his 3rd year of the plan, Mansfield has the team flowing well as the leagues highest scoring team dropping 90 points a game but defensively just as good with the 4th best defence in the league. The team has no visible weaknesses have 5-6 double figure scoring threats, Twin towers Grant and Roscoe and 3pt bombers in Swags and Fipps. Can they win at Bendat or more importantly can the 3 ball drop enough for this year's championship.

2. Rockingham Flames 9-3 Predicted Finish 2nd

The flames have moved under the radar this season having their stud imports not arriving till mid-May, the short stint of Garbin kept the team winning in the mean time and now they have settled into the Petrick flow and going just fine. D’Lesha Lloyd 23ppg is a great find, a capable inside out scorer and creator off the dribble with sidekick Harrison (19ppg) providing much added muscle in the post. Maddy Allen however has to be the pickup of the season, the mobile big is a defensive shot blocker and extremely efficient around the rim her 14 and 10 really the catalyst to the success of the team this year. Bourne 14ppg leading the charge, the team has a big 4 to compete with the Lightnings and Redbacks for the title. But can their bench step up especially the lack of a true 2nd big. Petricks run and gun game is fun to watch and enough to push back into the title game this year.

3. Willetton Tigers 9-3 Predicted Finish 5th
Tigers have always been a perennial title threat and Parker this year looked primed to load up again with the addition of Australian International Alice Kunek (Lynx). Kunek would of killed this league and her departure prior to season start left the Tigers in a hole with no stud to lead the way. Parker for the 1st time in a long while brought in two American imports to get the season back on track. Whilst neither player is a MVP candidate they complement the team first play of this team. The tigers have depth and leadership with the additions of Ajay Johnson and former league MVP Sam Norwood to the core of Des Kelly, Zoe Harper and a good junior group. But do they have the stud to create a score in the finals series?

4. Perth Redbacks 9-4 Predicted Finish 3rd

The Redbacks opened the cheque book to help the newly acquired COTY (Men) Charles Nix and he recruited very well bringing the talented point guard Mikayla Pirini, WNBL big Standish and scoring threat in import Dyer. The Big 3 has support in Jakens and Donovan and the development of Nes’Eya Williams gives this team good depth. Nix has this team structured well and no doubt primed for a finals run. I have concerns that Dyer can stand up in a 3 game semi and they don’t have the 2nd big to throw at the Lakesides and Willettons.

5. Kalamunda Eastern Suns 8-4 Predicted Finish 4th
This team is the real smokey to cause an upset in the finals run this year and I can see them sliding up into the top 4. Jessie Edwards is back and suiting up next game and the 6’3 Big gives the suns rebounding and finishing and support for MVP candidate Jennie Rintala ( 18.5ppg 10 rebs). The Wall of Rintala, Ciabattoni (19ppg) and Edwards is perhaps the best in the league. Guard play is the weakness and their finals run will depend on the play of Smith, Montroni, and young gun Jewel Williams. 5 double figure scoring threats gives this team a chance.

6. Mandurah Magic 7-4 -Predicted Finish 6th

How the mighty has literally fallen! The team has been crippled with season ending injury to stud big Carly Boag and recently Mihovilovich which leaves them lacking not only in scoring threats but leadership. 6’4 post Regina Palusna has been decent and was always coming in to support Boag and that team really could of done some damage in the chase for Coach Miegel’s illusive championship. Import Brown has been good (24ppg) but they really don’t have the scoring threat anywhere else on the floor to push for a title this year.

7. Stirling Senators 5-8 Predicted 9th

The Senators are in doubt this year in making the finals which would be a disappointment after playing in them last year (4th). The replacement of Kisha Lee in Jane Johnson and the loss of Roberts hasn’t given the team the same swagger as last year. The addition of the Throns sisters is timely and gives them depth but they were really need in the first half of the year. I can’t see this team winning enough in a 5-8 race where 9 wins may be a minimum for entry into the playoffs.

8. South West Slammers 4-7 Predicted 8th

Good but not good enough. The big improvers for the normally cellar dweller team. They have been able to make a run this year based on the excellent play of locals Denehey, Bayless, Thompson and Burrows and a solid import in Van Kleef (17ppg). From there the cupboard is too bare to scare team in the finals. They will do enough to have a great year and could still sneak into 8th.

9. Cockburn Cougars 4-8 Predicted 10th

Cockburn gave leaders Lightning a real scare last week and nearly knocked them off behind the star play of Lee (29p) and Moyes (19p). They have 4 winnable games in Wolves, Senators, Magic and Slammers so finals destiny is in their hands. The Den is a rocking atmosphere and either way this team has improved this year under first year coach Megan Thompson.

10. Joondalup Wolves 4-9 Predicted 11th

A disappointing season from the SBL powerhouse that is Wolves with the team recently winning the title under Coach Alava. That core is still there but have not been able to produce consistent offensive performances. Nikita Martin the teams leading scorer at 13ppg and the import Zanida has not been the productive player needed to push this team further up the ladder. Cougars, Slammers, Eagles, Senators winnable games.

11. Perry Lakes hawks 3-9 Predicted Finish 7th

Beware the sleeping beast. Last weekend was huge for the Hawks, reviving their season with two big wins and just keeping them on track for a finals run. Former Opal and the leagues dominant big Nat Burton has returned in dominant form (19ppg 14 rebs) and has transformed this team. 6 winnable games in their final 10 means that they can and will make the playoffs as a dangerous lower seed.

12. East Perth Eagles 0-13

A really challenging year but one on the head for first year coach Tanya Fisher who elected to run a mostly under 20 junior team in the WSBL. The fact that this team lost to the WA u18 side in pre-season should of raised huge alarm bells. The club should of brought in at least 2-3 senior Australian or Import players to help mentor this young team. You gun Eryn Fisher is the teams best player but she off to college in August. The team has finally brought in a 6’1 import who has yet to suit up and maybe simply another rumour. The league needs to ask questions on the improvement of this program, when the 2nd last team is beating you by 30, it’s not good for league.

WSBL Round 12 Preview

Slammers @ Magic

The Magic kept their top 4 chances alive with a 2 point win against Wolves last week on the back of a huge 30p game from Anita Brown who is standing up in the absence of Milo. Palusna continues her solid play and a 2nd option for this team. This is 50/50 game as both teams match up well. Slammers had the bye and need this win to keep pace with the top 8. Can the slammers young guards slow down Brown and can Van Kleef outplay big Palusna. Magic need bigger inputs from the likes of Klastourny's and Bailey in this one. I am going with Slammers with the win on Mandurah’s home court by 14.


Hawks @ Eagles

Hawks will get their season rolling and 3 wins in a row in this one. Burton, Farnworth and supporting cast way too strong . Burton 20/20 in 30 mins. Hawks by 35.

Flames @ Cougars

Cougars were very good last week in a close loss to the ladder leaders Lakeside. They were in the whole game and a great game from Kisha Lee. However Rocko are showing their 2nd seed muscle and the Big 4 of Lloyd, Harrison, Allen and Bourne just too much fire power. Flames by 22.

Senators @ Wolves

Oh this game is super close to pick, both teams are desperate for a W to keep in touch with the playoff run. Both teams coming off double header losses last week. Match ups are good Ironmonger v Land, Martin v Johnson, but the loss of Shani Amos is really going to hurt. Im going with Senators with a little too much scoring depth in this one by 15.

Tigers @ Lakeside

3rd place tigers travel up the road to take on first place Lakeside after losing to Flames and beating Stirling last week. Lakeside are formidable at home where the 3 ball lands more times than a Rockets v Warriors game. Tigers are looking good in recent weeks with Sam Norwood getting into good form. But lakeside twin towers Grant and Roscue should cover the Willo big. The import match up of Fipps/Swags v Payne/ Cotton will be fun to watch. Home court is the advantage in this one. Lightning by 18.

Redbacks @ Suns **Game of the Week**

This is a 4 v 5 clash and could be a semi-final matchup in the making. Redbacks have the head to head advantage of 38 points. Word is Standish is back to face the 3 headed Wall of Edwards, Ciabottoni and Rintala. The Reds are coming off a loss but are far better with Standish in the line up. However I’m picking the home side in this one. Suns are on a 5 game winning streak, longest in the league and that will continue to 6 this week. Suns by 12.

There is a case for both sides, on one hand yes i agree, stealing resources and spending money that isn't there is not productive. However on the other hand, the skills of some of the EP girls have not developed over a couple of years, some are worse. Fisher is not the best coach for that group either in my opinion. Having both daughters play in that team clouds her vision a bit as it has done all through WABL as well. I hope for their sake the program develops, but losing by +30 every week cannot help the young players mental state. They need to ensure they lock down their players for the future or lose them to a sport they will enjoy more than getting flogged every week.

loving your previews Combo

So I am a long time reader of this SBL thread, never have I really posted. But a couple of things that have been bothering me (and others) for a while in WA Basketball/SBL needs to be said. And some of it already has.

I think the league is headed in a great direction; we are finally starting to get NBL players and elite talent to come back to our league. This is happening in conjunction with probably our most productive group of junior players for the past decade.

Firstly a players development and journey is a usually a result of 2/3 people; themselves and their parents.

Outside of that, Basketball WA, Brett Coxsedge and BWA coaches are not getting enough credit for these young players coming through. And yet we are seeing article after article of SBL coaches claiming to be responsible for the development of a junior athlete. SBL head coaches are head coaches of a semi professional team you are not therefore an elite development coach and responsible for a players development trajectory.

For Example, Perth Redback's Head Coach, you cannot keep brining up a CoE athlete in your articles. How about raising the great things BWA has done for him, Adam Caporn, himself and his great parents and just be happy being apart of the kids journery. If anyone from Perth should be linked in an article with the kid it should be his junior coaches. NOT your money laundering scheme that is the World Basketball Academy (These academies are a whole other problem but this one takes the cake in terms of being a flat out con) and not your salary-cap breaching SBL team that is the Perth Redbacks. Neither of those things are doing anything for development of players within your club or within the state and simply do not come close to comparing with the CoE and SPP programs run by BWA. This is one prime example, but there are others.

Secondly, I along with many other people are sick of reading about 2 teams raving and ranting about 'their local development and strength and conditioning blah blah'

This is the SBL a lot of these guys work 9-5 jobs, stop taking it so seriously for one. If they want to have a beer after a game so be it. Does that go against all your strength and conditioning advice and everything those iPads are telling you courtside though? What do you do then? My goodness.

So spending money on those kinds of things to me are a waste of time AT THIS LEVEL and not something to gloat about in a league that clearly doesn't moderate spending from club to club. Which is fine. This isn’t a money cry, money makes the league better which I am all for. But just be happy signing good players don’t need to sit their looking like peanuts. I often wonder if the Perth Assistants and Sean Super Coach are actually using those iPads for anything in particular or just playing each other in Clash of Clans? About just as useful. It is nothing to brag about.

Most of this stemmed from an article I think most of us saw a while back. An SBL head coach who essentially claimed that Geraldton were rigging the system and other clubs should follow his club's lead kind of thing. Don't worry if you don't know what article I’m referring to, I understand, there is a few of them.

It got me curious so I went through each team in an effort to understand this ridiculous article and the point of it somehow. Now I wont be putting kids in here who are at college because lots of local teams have guys away. I’m purely talking about what SBL teams are doing for development of their young local talent. Have a look below.

I think it would be nice for the SBL to stop glorifying these coaches who obviously come under the mould of coach who need to tell THEIR story, need to say what they know people want to hear (even if they can’t deliver it) just to ease their own egos and insecurities. It’s a con, and unfortunately too many people are falling for it, which is scary and a shame. It’s been happening for years with past ‘great’ coaches in the state (If you have half a brain you know who I’m talking about, If you don’t then you have fallen for the con).

I would love for the league to stop giving these guys air time (Obviously it creates drama, like the article I allude to) and give clubs that are ACTUALLY doing a good job some publicity. Or better yet speak with the players themselves, not the coaches who claim to own them. I want to hear more about the Lakeside’s, Cockburn’s, East Perth’s and Rockingham’s of the world who actually supplement their group of locals with 2/3 players from outside. As opposed to these self-proclaimed culture builders who preach development but do the opposite.

See below, I have noted locals who don’t play that probably should where applicable. Feel free to discuss.

Joondalup

Imports: Sullivan & Billups (2)

Non-Locals: Iliadis, Salinas, Clausen, Huntington (4)

Locals who play: Smyth, Wellsteed, Matacz, Maxwell, Ironmonger, Easther (6)

Locals who don’t play: Gaspar*,

* Gaspar was ironically in that article and has been raised before but doesn’t suit up and struggles to play in blowouts.

Credit to Wolves they actually run 12 deep, but 4 out of their 6 locals are fair to say at their peak in terms of ‘development’ and Ironmonger and Wellsteed probably should have reached higher heights than simply being SBL role players.


PERTH

Imports: Barrow, Roberts (2)

Non-Locals: Hussey, Redhage, Smith, Gartona (4)

Locals who play: Vigor, Wagner, Bowen *(3) * CoE

Locals who don’t play: Garang, Forrest and Vlahov - who notably all actually originate from other clubs.

Only 2 locals to rave about outside of KB are past their primes but great players. Rotation is 7, at best 8. And those 2 locals (Vigs and Wags) are off the bench? Development of locals...okay? Oh and lots of the young talent they gloat about originate elsewhere. Yeah this is what we should be writing about?

GERALDTON –

Imports: Natesan, Lasher (2)

Non-Locals: Alipate, Ross, Paringatai, Smith (4)

Locals who play: Wundenberg, Ralph, Hunt, Myers, Ducas** (5) ** CoE

As always a short rotation and like always 2 imports and then 2 ‘Aussies’ who just happened to be better this year in Alipate and Ross (Hancock & Hussey last year). Paringatai and Smith just happen to be up there and lucked out with Hunt coming HOME.

Not sure what the Joondalup Coach was getting at, but last I checked they have Liam Hunt coming back, Jesse Hunt at high D1 college and Ducas one of the best prospects in country. Interesting.


STIRLING

Imports: King, Anshila (2)

Non-Locals: Wroe, Logan Thwaites, Bruton (3)

Locals who play: Ellis, Davis, Litterick, Coburn, Jay Thwaites, Wani Swaka **(5) **CoE

Capitalising on some great juniors coming through. Wroe the perfect compliment to them all. Bruton has been there long enough now. Don’t see Stirling Head Coach gloating every week in articles though? Solid team with good blend.


WILLETON

Imports: Diagne, Bowie (2)

Non-Locals: Scott, Burston (2)

Locals who play: Armour, Noordhoek, Black, Collins, Jackson, Evans, Casey (7)

Locals who don’t play: Cummings

Good blend, similar to Stirling. Good group of locals. But some interesting decisions in past meant Lochy Cummings and Corey Shervil looked elsewhere.


ROCKINGHAM

Imports: White, Hire (2)

Non-Locals: Washington (1)

Locals who play: J Beard, Godfrey, C Beard, K Beard, L Roberts, L Travers, B Samuelson, J Griffin, M Mkhwananzi (9)

Locals who don’t play: Honey, Waters** CoE

Local kids finally getting a crack over past 2 years. Not sure they’ve hit the ceilings they probably should of. But supplemented really well with 2 good players and then Washington. Plenty of young talent in the wings too. Should be doing better than they are.


LAKESIDE

Imports: Alexander, Isenbarger (2)

Non-Locals: Michaels, Shervill, Vinci (3)

Locals who play: Prue, Mackenzie, Bell, Garbellini, Palleschi, Davey (6)

Shervill and Vinci been there long enough not many would realise not locals. But good group of young kids. Supplemented well with 2 solid imports and Michaels. Coached really well and play the right way. They also have Grida away at CoE. ** Will be good this year and many years to come.


PERRY LAKES

Imports: Holmen, Carlwell (2)

Non-Locals: Cummings, Thomas, Smith, Hickert, Hayto (5)

Locals who play: Clarke, Purser, Cole-Heath, Hamilton (4)

Locals who don’t play: Nobensi

Outside of Purser, who is arguably best true local in comp, not sure how much upside there is with other 3 guys. I guess what most people question is the non-local talent. But to Parson’s credit they play hard and play 12 deep.


COCKBURN

Imports: Sebirumbi, Steindl* (2)

Non-Locals: Pesava (1)

Locals who play: Field, Mandic, Chan, Holmes, Knight, Van Lit (6)

Locals who don’t play: Kamara, Harris (2)

Great local talent, loved what they did with Steindl coming in, shame it didn’t work. Would love an article with Gav or Nener. I guarantee you wont see them pumping their own tyres. Ideally not their GM in interviews too. Next thing we’ll have Warren Bouchat or worse Cameron Britt on SBL Radio. Please no


KALAMUNDA

Imports: Davis, Belger (2)

Non-Locals: Horn, Viskovich, Timms, Billy Grey, Lewis (5)

Locals who play: Blanchett, Diaz, Squire (3)

I don’t really agree with a lot that this team does and this adds to that. Where’s the development pathway for your own juniors here? Especially for team with next to no success over the past 3-5 years.


EAST PERTH

Imports: Morse, Golden (2)

Non-Locals: Williamson, Tupea, Easley, Manyang (4)

Locals who play: Donlagic, Malie, Warden, Seery, Dinardo (5)

Locals who don’t play: Berry


New coach backing in the kids to go with good group of vets who have all 3 of them been there a long time. Berry was playing a bit but may play less due to arrival of Golden. Young team that plays hard, and each week it’s evident their young kids are getting better. Donlagic and Dinardo solid for years to come.


MANDURAH

Imports: Stewart, Shabazz (2)

Non-Locals: Pal, Deng, Makuei, Julitz (4)

Locals who play: Ballantyne, Miegel, Klasztorny, Moore, Kyle (5)

Good group of vets around some decent young talent. Long way to go, but Trahair doing the right things, going the right way about it minus the self-loving articles.


SW SLAMMERS

Imports: Voelkel, Thompson (2)

Non-Locals: Lay, Weeden, Sopolinksi (3)

Locals who play: Durnin, Leary, Harper (3)

Locals who don’t play: Douglas

Not sure what happened to Douglas, but tough year down there. At least some kids are playing. Have produced some good players in the past but looks like tough days ahead in the short term for Bunbury.


KALGOORLIE

Imports: Sharpe, Sovine (2)

Non-Locals: Martin, Holloway, Forlano, Stojanovski (4)

Locals who play: Reid, Hicks, Beattie (3)

Similar to Bunbury tough days ahead. Geraldton’s only difference is producing better local group. Once that comes along can always find players to add. They’re playing some kids though.



So instead of tricking people into thinking they are development gods, how about just say you are trying to win? There is nothing wrong with that. This shows that.

There is also nothing wrong with players wanting to move to increase their chances of playing. But you are not therefore responsible for their development. You may be responsible for giving them more minutes on a basketball court. But you solely are not the reason they are getting better.

It’s important to note I am not saying all HC’s are not good development coaches. I think lots in the SBL are. But I think we are hearing from the ones who aren’t, but saying that they are, too much!

Look forward to following discussion

Diz cat needz a life

Good heavens man, you omitted J Garlepp. (and Hayto is a local, just visited Cockburn for a while)

Regarding the suns
- B Grey and Horn are suns locals. Further, you didn't mentioned Cooper Lowe and Carl Aylett - both suns juniors who play. I think they actually have one of the better development of their juniors into SBL. Viskovich and Jamo left Redbacks because they were obviously talented and sat on the bench for years. Can't hate on the suns for giving them a fair go.

Personally I think Rockingham and East Perth should be getting a lot more credit. Rocko have 9 locals! Crazy and always recruit well. Beards x3, Godfrey + the likes of Griffin etc, just great stuff. Should push this year. East Perth may not be good this year but are going to be tough in the future. Murphy (20), Donlagic (21) are guns and look like long term locals. Got Warden back from hawks and looks like he could be a very good player when he gets back from college. Role players like Malie and Dinardo will be good for next 5 years. Try keep Williamson next year, leadership of Easley and Joe playing limited minutes/ coaching. Jury still out on the Coach but haven't heard any bad things about him so must be doing alright

How are you defining "local" and "non-local"?

I used to play at Warwick, Joondalup, Herb Graham & Eagle Indoor Sports Centre all in the same week. Bit hard to define a local.

I reckon he's defining "local" as in where they played WABL.

The better clubs attract talent, and I can tell you now it's more than money that does it.

Culture, success, resources, facility, non-Basketball network and opportunities.

Money and minutes the key drivers - no one is disputing this, but the Willetton's and Joondalup's of the world are becoming elite environments in this State and will continue to attract talent.

Other clubs need to research and understand the powerhouse club models, as it is where the game is heading in WA

The new June thread is here......

www.hoops.com.au/forum/43422-wa-sbl-june-2018