Will Sturt finally win Central this season?

Feature image via: Emma Hoppo

NBL1 Central Defensive Player of the Year Tayla Brazel believes her Sturt Sabres will break through the championship barrier in 2024. 

After finishing the regular season with a perfect 18-0 record, the Sabres had a heartbreaking 65-80 loss in the Grand Final to the eventual champion, Norwood Flames. 

The 20-year-old has spent the past WNBL season with the Adelaide Lightning, where her defensive skills were tested against Australia's best. 

She explained that her previous knee injury has made her focus and prioritise lateral movements, which helped her become a more consistent defender.

Guarding the likes of Lauren Nicholson, Aari McDonald and WNBL MVP Jordin Canada, Brazel said it was a major adjustment to take on stars of their calibre. 

“Initially, to be honest, I was a little bit nervous,” she said on the SA Shotclock.

“Coming off winning that Defensive Player of the Year award for NBL1, I had a bit more confidence in myself that I can do it.” 

Expect more of this from Tayla Brazel in the upcoming FIBA U19 Women's World Cup ?

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Brazel explained the Sabres are still frustrated by their back-to-back two Grand Final losses to the West Adelaide Bearcats and the Flames. However, she’s optimistic for the team to finally finish the season right in 2024. 

“Losing the Grand Final for the past two years, it definitely teaches you a few things. But I think it’s prepared us well,” she said. 

“It’s a new year, a new season, you don’t really want to dwell on the past.

“I just know we have so much belief and confidence in our group that we can get back there and finish the job this year.” 

The NBL1 Central season starts on March 23, streaming live and free via NBL1.com.au, the NBL1 App and Kayo Freebies.