Riding high on an undefeated streak, the McDonalds Mackay Men’s Meteors faced off against the Darwin Salties last weekend in a game that promised to test their mettle.
The game resulted in a clash of titans, with the Salties emerging victorious with a commanding 18-point lead, sealing the fate of the Men’s Meteors with a final score of 113 to 95.
Reflecting on the game, Head Coach Joel Khalu acknowledged the harsh reality check it provided for his team. "It was a bit of a reality check for us tonight, I think," he remarked.
"Darwin obviously came in here with a purpose around taking care of business on the road."
He pointed to the pivotal second quarter as the turning point where the game slipped away from their grasp.
Player Jerron Jamerson echoed Khalu's sentiments, highlighting the Salties' relentless blitz in the second quarter.
"This is the first season that we’ve really been hit as far as not only the pace that we played, but just that physicality," he admitted, emphasising the importance of bouncing back from the defeat.
On the other hand, The McDonald's Mackay Women’s Meteorettes finished strong and secured a resounding victory over the Darwin Salties, resulting in a 10-point margin in a final score of 98 to 85.
Despite the men’s home-ground loss, the weekend held a greater significance beyond basketball. It marked the annual McDonald’s Mackay Meteors Fundraising Game & Charity Singlet Auction, a momentous occasion where community rallied behind a noble cause.
The Meteors wore limited edition jerseys for the fundraising game, symbolising their commitment to supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital.
Following the intense matchup, the jerseys, infused with the sweat and spirit of the game, were auctioned off to eager bidders, with every bid contributing to the vital funds needed for the Ronald McDonald house.
Nell Thomsett shared her testimony as a local mother who experienced the support of the Ronald McDonald Family Room during her child’s visit and emphasised the importance of continuously raising funds for the initiative.
“The house was absolutely fantastic, it is the best asset and while it’s currently closed for renovations, they do have the cart going around which is just incredible.
“To be able to sit at the table and eat together as a family and have somewhere for the kids to play together and have fun, it’s just a really great service.
“Most of the meals and poppers or tea and coffee are provided via donation so the money that’s raised at events like the Mackay Basketball on the weekends is what keeps it going.
“Mackay Basketball are great supporters and they run amazing events, so everybody should come along to the next fundraiser at Mackay Basketball, it’s such a great cause,” Nell remarked.
Overall Highlights:
Women’s
MKY 98 def DRW 85
Sam Haiby | 28 pts, 9 rebs & 5 ast
Nikita Van Wyk | 20 pts & 5 rebs
Cheyenne Bobongie | 15 pts & 3 rebs
Taylor Mole | 12 pts & 12 rebs
Chelsea Brook | 11 pts & 11 rebs
Men’s
DRW 113 def MKY 95
Jerron Jamerson | 29 pts & 5 rebs
Isaac White | 25 pts & 4 rebs
Todd Blanchfield | 13 pts & 9 rebs
Aiden Krause | 13 pts & 3 stls
The McDonald's Mackay Women’s Meteorettes took home the win against the Darwin Salties, however the McDonald's Mackay Men’s Meteors were deemed defeated. Despite the loss, crucial funds were raised on the night to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Photo Credit: Mackay Basketball (Facebook)
