Undermanned spiders dominated by Hornets

We picked up another blow-out win in the Sydney Junior Championships, this time defeating an undermanned Hornsby Spiders 90-11.

The Spiders were without one of their key players and despite fighting hard they were unable to contain a rampaging Hills team.

While the guards and small forwards penetrated through the top of the key, our big men put their stamp on the game down low, repeatedly posting close to the basket.

The Spiders offensive sets were blunted early. They struggled to bring the ball up court when the Hornets applied pressure on the ball that led to a succession of turnovers. 

When the Hornets reset to a half court defence, the man-on-man approach coupled with scrappy play forced Hornsby to take shots under from outside or amid a see of arms inside the key. Proof of the strength of the defence could be seen in the 33 steals the Hornets picked up during the game and the fact that the Spiders only scored two field goals in the whole game and none at all in the first half.

Addam had an outstanding game, leading all scorers with 25 points on 11 of 13 shooting, three blocks, 10 rebounds, three steals and had the highest efficiency of the year with 38.

Meanwhile Mitchell had our first perfect game from the field shooting four from four for his 11 points.

Brane was a monster down low, using his body well. When he leans into his man he is unstoppable.

But they weren't alone, Mark was lightening quick, strong on the boards and continued earning his Gadget nickname with a succession of steals. Actually, when it came to steals, Jayden, Mitch, Luke, Jay and Mark seemed to conjour them at will. 

The team also surpassed it's season best for deflections with 24 in the game. Will added a personal best in that department picking up three. 

Jay, Luke and Mitch saw the court particularly well, making some brilliant passes to set up team mates.  

That said, Arran beat all the guards with his six assists, so mark that one up for the bigs.

Thomas played the swingman role to perfection. One minute he was tough on the boards and the next he was using his big step to drive past his man along the baseline to the basket. 

This was an excellent team game, the ball moved and the offensive sets were executed well. At the same time, it was clear the boys were growing in confidence, seizing opportunities outside of the set plays when they arose. An excellent game before a break and the final game of the regular season against Norths at our home on July 18.

Personal Bests

Team Best: Deflections 24. Steals 33 (equal best)

Luke: Steals 4 (equal best)

Jay: Steals 4 (equal best)

Mark: Free throw percentage 80%

Will: Deflections 3

Mitchell: Shooting percentage 100% (4 from 4). Defensive rebounds 5 (equal best). Blocks 1

Jayden: Free throw percentage 50% (equal best). Points 8 (equal best). Efficiency 12.

Arran: Assists 6.

Brane: Steals 3 (equal best)

Addam: Shooting percentage 84.62% (11 from 13). Points 25. Steals 3. Blocks 3. Efficiency 38.