Spectres Edge Hawks in Opening Leg of GEBC Cup Thriller

The Nunawading Spectres have drawn first blood in the 2025 GEBC Cup, claiming a clean sweep over local rivals the Ringwood Hawks in a pair of heart-stopping contests on Wednesday night.

Women’s Game: Spectres Grind Out Gritty Win

Nunawading Spectres 61 def Ringwood Hawks 58

In a low-scoring, high-pressure clash, the Spectres Women held off a fast-finishing Hawks outfit to take a narrow three-point victory on the road.

Rachel Antoniadou was the difference-maker, stuffing the stat sheet with 21 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists, and delivering when it mattered most down the stretch. Faith Dut and Rachel Brewster added 10 points apiece, with Dut also pulling in 7 rebounds.

Laina Snyder controlled the glass with 12 rebounds and chipped in 3 assists, providing vital second-chance opportunities in a game where every possession counted.

The win gives Nunawading a crucial edge heading into the return leg, with the group showing composure and cohesion under pressure in a hostile environment.

Men’s Game: Spectres Survive Last-Second Thriller

Nunawading Spectres 98 def Ringwood Hawks 97

The men’s clash was nothing short of an instant classic, with Nunawading holding their nerve to escape with a one-point win in a back-and-forth shootout.

Rising star Christian D’Angelo lit up the scoreboard with 28 points, showcasing his scoring arsenal and fearless shot-making. Big man BJ Mack II added 22 points and monstered the boards with 16 rebounds, while Jack Gandolfo (21 points, 9 assists) played the role of floor general to perfection.

Cameron Cranston was a steady contributor with 10 points and 8 rebounds, helping the Spectres stay composed in the frantic final minutes.

The win extends Nunawading’s early dominance over Ringwood and sets up a mouth-watering second leg later in the season.

Next Up: NBL1 South Home Opener This Saturday

The Spectres now turn their attention to The Graveyard this Saturday for their NBL1 South home opener against the Casey Cavaliers.

• Women tip-off at 5:30pm

• Men tip-off at 7:30pm

Be part of the action and experience what it means to #JoinTheInnerSanctum — tickets available now!