Get ready for a thrilling contest as the NBL1 South 2023 Men’s Grand Final unfolds with the Knox Raiders facing off against the Sandringham Sabres. This highly anticipated clash promises to be an intense battle between two formidable teams, each showcasing their unique strengths, both determined to claim the championship glory and a ticket to Perth as the South Conference representative in The National Final next week.
The Knox Raiders have been the standout team of the regular season, finishing at the top of the ladder with an impressive 18-4 record. However, their journey to the grand final wasn’t without obstacles. They stumbled in the qualifying final against their grand final opponents, the Sandringham Sabres, but displayed their resilience and mettle by bouncing back to secure victory against the Eltham Wildcats in the semi-final and the Mount Gambier Pioneers in the preliminary final.
Leading the charge for the Knox Raiders is the dynamic duo of Ke’Jhan Feagins and Wayne Stewart Jr. Feagins, with his exceptional scoring ability and playmaking skills, has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging 18.9 points and 5.4 assists per game. Stewart Jr. has been a dominant presence on both ends of the court, contributing 18.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game. Another key player to watch is Madut Akec, whose consistent performances have flown under the radar, adding
11.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. Defensively, Deng Acuoth has been a standout, swatting away shots with an average of 2 blocks and pulling down 8 rebounds per game. The Raiders also boast the experience and skill of NBL forward Mason Peatling and young dynamo guard Bailey Nunn who will need to continue to play a vital role in their championship pursuit.
On the other side of the court, the Sandringham Sabres have been on a formidable run, finishing the regular season in fourth place with a solid 15-7 record. They made a statement in the qualifying final by defeating the Raiders by seven, setting the stage for an epic rematch in the grand final. The Sabres continued their impressive form in the preliminary final, dominating the Diamond Valley Eagles to secure their spot in the ultimate showdown.
Ben Ayre has been the driving force for the Sabres, leading the league in scoring with an astounding 24.2 points per game and dishing out 4.6 assists per game, earning himself an All Star 5 recognition last night. The high-flying CJ Asuncion-Byrd adds to the Sabres’ offensive firepower, averaging 18.6 points per game. Campbell Blogg, an NBL development player, has been another valuable scoring option, providing crucial points when needed. Dane Pineau has been a pivotal piece for the Sabres, making his presence felt with 13 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. Experienced, decorated and former Australian Boomer David Barlow and young talent Tom Koppens add depth to the Sabres’ line-up and will be instrumental in their quest for the championship.
Both teams have shown tremendous determination and resilience throughout the season, and their star players have consistently stepped up to the occasion. As the clock ticks down and tensions rise in the grand final, it will come down to execution, strategy, and mental fortitude to determine the ultimate victor.
The NBL1 South 2023 Men’s Grand Final promises to be a captivating spectacle, with electrifying plays, thrilling moments, and a fervent atmosphere that will keep basketball enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. The clash between the Knox Raiders and the Sandringham Sabres is set to be a memorable showdown that we hope will leave a lasting impression on the league and fans alike.
GRAND FINAL REFEREES
- Brad Henshaw (Crew Chief)
- Steve Middleton
- David Farmers
- Sarah Bradbury (Ref Coach)
SCOREBENCH AND STATISTICIANS
- Chairperson: Sue Kusko
- Scorer: Vicky Lowe
- Assistant Scorer: Bryce Ritchie
- Timer: Graham Roberts
- Shot Clock: Penny Kafkalakis
- Caller: Celine Kearney
- Inputter: Bryce Phillipee
- Spotter: Blake Teunissen
