BASKETBALL: The South West Slammers men claimed a game one victory to start their series of three matches against the Willetton Tigers in the quarter finals on Saturday night.
In a defensive display which saw scoring limited, all-star South West guard Tre Nichols still managed to put in a huge performance and lead his side to a 90 – 83 victory.
Despite some inaccurate shooting Nichols still poured in 27 points while gathering nine rebounds and four assists.
He shot eight of 18 attempts from two-point field goals while only banking one of six three-point attempts.
But his eight of nine free-throw attempts helped him notch a win in his side’s first finals match.
Fellow import Brian Voelkel was also dangerous, despite much scoring coming from the power forward.
Although he only managed to post seven points, Voelkel’s work on the glass and his ability to dish out assists was pivotal to the Slammers.
He racked up double-digit rebounds gaining 12 in total and handed out nine assists to go with them.
Jordan Hickert was again impressive for the South West as he collected 17 points and six rebounds while Ty Harrelson contributed 10 points, four assists and four rebounds.
The Slammers put on a strong third quarter in which they outscored the Tigers 21 – 16 to take a five point lead into the final term.
From there they put on another two points to the lead and came away with a seven-point victory.
Unfortunately the women we’re not able to claim a win in their first match against the Joondalup Wolves.
Despite competing strongly for three of the four quarters, a second term blitz from Joondalup saw the game out of reach.
The Wolves outscored the Slammers 24 – 13 in the second quarter to come away with an 88 – 65 win.
Patricia Bright was especially impressive for the South West as she recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Kate Fielding also contributed with 18 points and eight assists while Deanica McCormick totalled 20 points and four assists.
The series will continue next weekend.
Pitcures by Ashley Pearce.
