Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes confirmed their NBL1 North championship credentials with rollicking victories over the Townsville Flames and Heat last Friday night at Mackay Basketball Stadium.
Superb performances from star guards Denesha Bobongie and Davida Dale inspired the Meteorettes to a 90-69 triumph over the reigning champions while superstar recruit Isaac White produced another top class display to mastermind an 82-64 win over the Heat in the main game.
Jamiey Doevendans’ Meteorettes overcame a slow start to sink the Flames and notch their first win of the season with top games from Bobongie, Dale, Phoebe Holmes, Madison MacDonald, Hannah Jensen and Jaye Willis.
They led 19-11 at the first break; 46-28 at half time and 73-45 at the end of the third quarter with the dynamic Dale and skilful Bobongie stamping their mark.
Young gun Bobongie, a former Australian Sapphires junior representative, turned in a mighty showing with 26 points, nine rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks on 12/18 shooting with the flamboyant Dale just as impressive.
The 26 year old American guard finished with 18 points, 11 rebounds, eight assists and seven steals and proved instrumental in the 21-point victory.
17 year old guard Holmes contributed 14 points.
Mackay Meteors made it back-to-wins after taming a powerful and well drilled Heat side in humid conditions.
Meteors coach Joel Khalu praised his charges for their wholehearted effort and will to win – keeping the Heat at bay with bustling defence.
Leading the way was maestro guard White who followed up his opening round 40 points effort with another masterclass performance.
The off contract Tasmanian JackJumpers guard demonstrated his silky skills for Mackay by finishing with 34 points, eight steals, five rebounds and five assists to spearhead a rousing 18 point win over the Heat.
White was ably supported by Djery Jean Baptiste (12 points and eight rebounds), guard Isaiah Lee (11 points, two assists and two steals), guard Tyler Williams and shooter Kye Medhurst as the Meteors led 23-17, 52-33 and 63-55 after the three breaks.
Photo credit: Kieron Place Art & Photography
