2023 NBL1 West Round Review 9

The Wolves fall short of a comeback against the top team.

Saturday night’s game featured a highly anticipated rematch against the first place Cockburn Cougars, who dealt the Wolves’ first loss of the season just 3 weeks prior.

The first quarter tipped off with a 5-0 run for the Wolves backed by the rebounding dominance of Teige Morrell and 3-point shooting by Emma Klasztorny, who made 2 threes within the first 5 minutes of the game. Cockburn’s Stephanie Gorman and Sarah Mortensen were quick to respond, returning two threes of their own to even the score.

Foul trouble plagued the Wolves in the second quarter, committing a total 8 fouls which forced defensive guard Tia Ucich to miss valuable minutes with 4 fouls before half-time. Down by as much as 12 points in the second quarter, the Wolves fought hard, returning with big shots by Chelsea Belcher, Shani Amos and Robbi Ryan, bringing the game to within 5.

Cockburn’s big 3 Sarah Mortensen, Stephanie Gorman and Jewel Marie Williams were tough to contain, combining for a massive 70 points between them. The Cougars were able to hold the lead down the stretch and remain undefeated for the season, beating the Wolves 74-85.

The Wolves men at close out the win against Cockburn Cougars 

The Wolves men were ready to take on the talented Cougars side which features star import talent in guard Taj Benning and ultra-athletic forward Courtney Alexander II. Ioannis (Giannis) Dimakopoulos made his Wolves debut, displaying great offensive and defensive talent, although in limited minutes due to foul trouble.

The first quarter opened with a steal by Jordan Wellsteed which led to a turnaround mid-range make by Quintin Dove. Threes by CJ Turnage, Mathiang Muo and two big dunks from Quintin Dove opened an early 6-point lead.

Ioannis made his first basket early in the second which was quickly followed up by a steal and transition bucket by CJ Turnage who had 20 points in the game. Team rebounding and defensive pressure helped to open a 14-point margin to end the first half. Ioannis had 3 blocks and a steal in just 7 minutes for the game.

The Wolves were very effective attacking the rim and converting 73% of attempts at the rim and mid-range. Bryan Michaels filled the stat sheet for 19 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Game MVP Quintin Dove had 32 points on 75% shooting including 5 offensive rebounds.

The Wolves won the game 105-97 to improve to a 9-4 record for the season. This Friday the Wolves take on the perry Lakes Hawks for Cancer Awareness Round. You can buy tickets to the game on Van Kailis Court here: bit.ly/Wolvestickets