Geelong United Crush Pioneers in 40-Point Rout

Geelong United dominated Mt Gambier Pioneers 112-72 on Saturday afternoon at The Geelong Arena in their season opener. The home side took control early and never looked back, building a massive 43-point lead at one stage. Geelong's offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting an impressive 42 percent from outside while dishing out 25 assists compared to the Pioneers' 16. Their dominance on the boards was evident with 46 rebounds to Mt Gambier's 33, including 20 offensive rebounds that led to 31 second-chance points. Gemma Potter led Geelong with 25 points and nine boards, while Hannah Hank added an efficient 22 points on 67 percent shooting. Jaz Shelley filled the stat sheet with 19 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and four steals as the United forced 23 turnovers and converted them into 17 points. For Mt Gambier, Catherine MacGregor tried to keep the Pioneers in the contest with 18 points including three triples, but couldn't overcome Geelong's pressure. Isabella Brancatisano contributed 14 points and three steals, while Edie Easterby recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 boards in the lopsided defeat. **GEELONG UNITED 112 (Gemma Potter 25, Hannah Hank 22, Jaz Shelley 19).** **MT GAMBIER PIONEERS 72 (Catherine MacGregor 18, Isabella Brancatisano 14, Edie Easterby 12).** #NBL1 #GameDay