Rocci backs Thunder offence after opening night escape

Feature Image: Ian Knight Photography

Maddi Rocci believes Keilor Thunder’s offensive ceiling will define their NBL1 South 2026 campaign, after a 79–78 win over Knox Raiders in a dramatic season opener.

Keilor led for most of the night and opened up a 16-point halftime advantage, before Knox surged late to steal the lead in the fourth and set up a tense finish at Keilor Stadium.

Rocci produced a triple-double with 37 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists, including the decisive late play that secured the result.

But the Keilor captain said the performance highlighted how dangerous the group can be when playing on the front foot, despite limited time together.

“We’ve only been together for two weeks and still have players to come in,” Rocci said.

“When we’re aggressive and on the front foot, I don’t think many teams can keep up with us.”

Rocci said the group’s edge came from their carryover mindset.

“But we had that fire in the belly from last season and that showed tonight,” she said.

Knox’s late push turned the contest into a one-possession game, forcing Keilor to respond after controlling the opening three quarters.

In the final moments, Rocci relied on instinct.

“I knew I had to get a shot away and a double team was probably coming,” she said.

“I just made a move and hoped for the best.”

Rocci said it was the defensive end that ultimately decided the contest.

“They’re a great team and they’ve got so much talent, but our defence was where it won us the game tonight,” she said.

While the offence set the tone early, it was Keilor’s defence that closed out the one-point win, with the Thunder holding firm in the final stages to start their season 1–0.

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