The Wolves Continue to Gain Momentum

The Chambers Franklyn City of Joondalup Wolves secured the win against the South West Slammers on Saturday night for ANZAC Round. Unselfish play was the theme of the game as the Wolves assisted on a season high 28 made baskets; led by Ella Thornton-Elliott who had 8.

A slow first quarter broke out to a strong double-digit lead by half time, spurred by a team-wide defensive effort. Darien Huff and Sarah Toeaina led the game in scoring with a combined 51 points. Darien Huff contributed 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 steals and Sarah Toeaina added 25 points, 4 rebounds and 5 steals in the game. Julia Chandler secured her fourth double-double of the season with 16 points, 10 rebounds, and Peanut Tuitele added 12 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists.

Laniesha Paddon was strong on the glass, collecting 10 for the game alongside Jo Odude who had 7. Jasmine Kirby and Ty Bolland combined for 10 points off fast break buckets and Sarah Toeaina was awarded the ANZAC Round medal for her exemplary sportsmanship, effort and play in the game.  

The Wolves dominate defensively in the win

The Pack set out to face the South West Slammers in their second matchup of the season at Eaton Recreation Centre. The first quarter for the Wolves was marked by defensive tenacity, highlighted by Ethan Elliott who collected 3 steals in the first 12 minutes. Captain Jordan Wellsteed scored all 9 of his points in the quarter on a perfect 4/4.

A consistent second quarter effort saw the lead break out to 8 by half time, but still in reach for the Slammers. A collection of threes made by Christian Jurlina, Ben Geel and CJ Turnage helped carry the offensive load as guards Jonathan Wade and Gabe Chadinha contributed valuable stops; combining for 5 steals in the game.

Eventually the Wolves were able to break the game open in the second half and build a 19-point lead in the third, and up to 23 in the fourth before winning by 20 and improving to 5-0 on the season.

Game MVP CJ Turnage finished with an all-round performance of 18 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists. Caleb Davis added 12 points, seven rebounds and ANZAC Round medal recipient Ethan Elliott contributing 10 points, five assists, four steals and four rebounds. 244-game captain Jordan Wellsteed nine points, four rebounds and two steals.

This Saturday the Wolves face the Rockingham Flames in a highly anticipated contest at Mike Barnett Sports Complex. If you can’t make it to the games, make sure to tune in live on our NBL1 website: bit.ly/RunwiththePack24.