Feature image via: Tanya Hawkins Photography
After a nearly decade-long absence from the Finals, the Albury-Wodonga Bandits men’s team will make their fabled return – with a possible home final.
Sitting fifth on the ladder and only one win behind them and the third-placed Manly Warringah, the final round of the NBL1 East will be critical to kick start a finals run.
Having played in the NBL1 East since 2022, the NBL1 South in 2019 and SEABL before it, the men’s team have made their return with the additions of NBL star Will Hickey and import duo Kevion Blaylock and Shaun Montague.
Hickey is one of the favourites for the conference MVP, averaging 22.6 points, 10.7 rebounds and 8.2 assists, while Blaylock and Montague are averaging a combined 33 points per game.
An under-the-radar part of their success has been Mitch Dance. The former club MVP has taken on a complementary role on this team, in fewer minutes than in 2021, he’s been more efficient and has been an x-factor in many close games.
Speaking on 7 News Border, head coach Matt Kowalczyk explained home fans will be excited to welcome the men’s team back into the finals fold.
“It’s nine years since the men’s program has been in the finals,” he said.
“That’s a long time for a club that is really proud of its history and its success. To finally knock that off again is a real achievement for this group.”
Having spent the past three years with the club, Bandits guard Lochlan Cummings said this has been a long time coming for this group.
“Since my time here, we’ve been building to something. We’ve been close, and close, but it’s exciting to see that growth come to fruition,” he said.
“We've got great talent, we’ve got great camaraderie within the group. I really do believe we have the chance and have what it takes to push this thing all the way to the end.
The Bandits will host the Sydney Comets tonight from 7:30pm AEST via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.
