The Wrap

It may have taken them longer than they would have liked, but Nottingham Wildcats finally picked up their first win of the season.

The two-time defending champions were pushed all the way by Cardiff Met Archers before prevailing for a 73-78 success on the road.

Stef Collins had 26 points, 10 rebounds and six assists for the home side, but they fell short as Ashley Harris returned to action in style with 31 points and 12 boards.

“It feels great to get that first win of the season under our belts, especially on a tough road trip,” said Wildcats’ Hannah Shaw.

“I have some mixed emotions from the game; that first win is really important and we did well down the stretch to end the game with a W, but I don’t think we’ve quite hit our stride yet.

“We had moments that were great and moments that could have been improved, but we’re 3 games in to a long season and I’d still back us for title.

“All credit to Stef, she played a cracking game and really made us work defensively. Even after getting a black eye from our ‘Hall of Famer’ (something I’ve had a couple of).

 

Shaw added: “The league is looking better and better with every team improving their rosters for this season, so there’s definitely a lot of exciting match ups coming our way.”

Westfield Health Sheffield Hatters continue to lead the way at the top after making it four wins from four with a 65-72 success away at Team Northumbria.

Gianna Woods starred with a stellar double-double with 27 points and 17 rebounds to continue her fine start to the season with Steph Gandy adding 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Meanwhile, Sevenoaks Suns improved to 3-0 as they eased to a 42-88 victory away at Oaklands Wolves with a combined 39 points from Chantelle Pressley and Cat Carr.

 

Leicester Riders are also still unbeaten following their 85-63 home win against Caledonia Pride, while Georgia Jones netted 30 points to lead Manchester Mystics to a 92-55 victory over Durham Palatinates.