The Wrap

Nottingham Wildcats extended their lead to four points at the top of the WBBL Championship as the league action returned at the weekend.

Dave Greenaway’s side are now 11-1 as Ashley Harris poured in 36 points to go with 11 rebounds in a 40-74 victory away at Oaklands Wolves, who put up a spirited display in the first half.

The chasing pack are bunched together with the next five teams all on four losses to epitomise just how competitive the league is this season.

Sevenoaks Suns made it back-to-back wins over Westfield Health Sheffield Hatters as they followed up their Trophy triumph with a 60-74 victory on Saturday.

Anne Pedersen top scored with 20 points to lead a balanced attack as the Suns join Sheffield on an 8-4 record.

“Our win against Sheffield was huge for us,” declared Pedersen.

“They are a good team and even though it was our third win against them at their place, it was our first actual league win against them.

“We are starting to really find our identity and the fact that we were able to beat Sheffield back-to-back shows we are heading in the right direction.

“It’s a close race in the league right now, so every win counts.”

Meanwhile, Leicester Riders moved into second place after they edged out Manchester Mystics 81-78 in a thrilling encounter.

Erin McGarrachan led her team with 19 points, while Alex Smith flirted with a triple-double after finishing with 16 points, 11 boards and eight assists.

 

The Mystics had two opportunities to force overtime, but fell short as they now drop outside of the top four with their 7-4 record.

“I’m really happy with that result against Manchester,” declared Riders’ head coach Matthew Harber.

“We had to review the last two losses and we made some significant changes which really helped.

“So many players are able to contribute for us and that makes us dangerous. I’m confident we can maintain this momentum as we get closer to the Trophy Final.”

Also, Team Northumbria moved above .500 with a convincing 59-86 win away at Caledonia Pride with Alison Gorrell starring with 26 points, nine rebounds and four assists for the visitors.