McLean Powers Braves Past Miners in 82-74 Win

The Bendigo Braves outpaced the Ballarat Miners 82-74 on Saturday night at Selkirk Stadium, securing a solid road win to open their campaign. Cassidy McLean led the charge for Bendigo with a masterful all-around performance, pouring in 22 points on an efficient 67 percent shooting while adding seven assists and seven boards. The Braves dominated the glass with a 45-39 rebounding advantage, including 14 offensive rebounds that led to 10 second-chance points. Elsie Noonan recorded a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds, while Lavinia Cox added 16 points and three steals. Ballarat stayed competitive behind balanced scoring from Abigail Wehrung and Micah Simpson, who each tallied 15 points. Simpson dished out six assists while Laura Taylor contributed 13 points and three steals. Despite forcing more turnovers (12-10) and converting them into points (10-4), the Miners couldn't overcome Bendigo's inside presence and efficient execution. **BENDIGO BRAVES 82 (Cassidy McLean 22, Lavinia Cox 16, Elsie Noonan 15).** **BALLARAT MINERS 74 (Abigail Wehrung 15, Micah Simpson 15, Laura Taylor 13).** #NBL1South ?