The Wrap

Back from the international break, five games took place in the WBBL Championship over the weekend.

Manchester Mystics picked up another win as their fast start helped pave the way for a 69-61 success over Oaklands Wolves with Georgia Jones netting a game-high 24 points.

 

“It was a really good game – we got out of the blocks really quickly, playing team basketball and moving the ball,” said Mystics’ Rheanne Bailey, who scored 16 points. “The second half Oaklands increased the pressure and we went away from what made us successful in the first half.

“They did really well to get back in the game, but we had the experience an composure to close the game out and get the win.”

She added on her own performance: “The main thing I try is to bring consistency.

“On top of that, try to bring whatever the team needs, whether it’s rebounding, defence, energy or points I just try my best to be what the team needs in that moment.

“We have great offensive and defensive players so I really just try to slot into wherever I’m needed the most.”

The Mystics moved to a 4-2 record in the league and having added a new signing recently, Bailey believes they are in a good place.

“We have had a major dynamic change with the addition of Sam (Roscoe) so continuing to gel on and off the court will be really important.

“We are improving each week and that’s all you can ask for at this point.

“Improving our team defence and continuing to move the ball on offence, move without the ball and take the open shots is something our coach frequently talks about so I guess those are good places to start where improvements are concerned.”

Arguably, the result of the weekend saw Cardiff Met Archers pull off a stunning 80-93 victory on the road at Westfield Health Sheffield Hatters.

Stef Collins fired in 35 points along with seven rebounds and seven assists to hand the Hatters a first loss with Merissa Quick adding 25 points, 14 boards and six assists, while Kate Butters had 22 points.

 

Meanwhile, Sevenoaks Suns maintained their unbeaten start to move into the outright lead at the top as they defeated Caledonia Pride 79-41 behind Judit Fritz’ 26 points.

Leicester Riders earned a 70-83 triumph away at Nottingham Wildcats as the visitors netted 14 3-pointers in the win.

Alex Smith finished with 20 points and seven assists, while Dee Hayward and Erin McGarrachan added 19 points apiece.

Team Northumbria were made to work hard for a 53-59 overtime success at BA London Lions with 23 points from Alison Gorrell as her side battled back from 16 down.

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