The Cockburn Cougars completed the perfect season after winning the NBL1 West grand final.
The Cockburn Cougars secured their place in history on March 30, 2024, by winning the NBL1 West women’s grand final, defeating the Warwick Senators 91-71 at RAC Arena. This victory not only crowned them champions but also marked the completion of a perfect season, a feat last achieved by the Willetton Tigers in 1999.
The grand final showcased the top two teams in the league, with the Senators aiming to create an upset. They started strong, racing to a 7-2 lead, and extended this margin to nine points in the second quarter. However, the Cougars quickly responded. They went on an impressive 16-0 run, highlighted by two three-pointers from Steph Gorman and another from Ruby Porter, eventually leading by seven points at halftime.
Porter, who was a new addition to the team following last year’s grand final loss to the Rockingham Flames, was named the grand final MVP. She contributed significantly with 17 points, two rebounds, and two blocks, shooting 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. Other key contributors for the Cougars included Daniel Raber, who recorded 16 points and 15 rebounds, Sarah Mortensen with 18 points and 11 rebounds, and captain Jewel Williams, who added 14 points and four assists. Gorman rounded out the scoring with 12 points and four rebounds.
Despite the loss, the Senators put up a commendable fight. Their captain, Stacey Barr, a two-time MVP, delivered a stellar performance, scoring 35 points along with 13 rebounds and four steals. However, the Senators faced challenges throughout the season, struggling with injuries, including the absence of superstar import Robbi Ryan during the final match.
The Cougars’ triumph marked their third consecutive grand final appearance and their second championship title, following their maiden win in 2023.
Thrilling Men’s Final Goes to Geraldton Buccaneers
In the men’s grand final, the Geraldton Buccaneers claimed victory over the Warwick Senators in a nail-biting finish, winning 81-78. This championship marks the Buccaneers’ second title in three years, adding to their wins in 2019 and 2023. The team has established itself as a formidable presence in the league, also experiencing a narrow defeat in the grand final in 2022.
Johny Narkle was awarded the grand final MVP after an outstanding performance, contributing 21 points, nine rebounds, four steals, three assists, and three blocks. Geraldton’s defensive strategy proved crucial, limiting the Senators, who had averaged 109.5 points per game throughout the season, to just 78 points in the final.
As the game progressed, excitement mounted. The Senators closed the gap with two three-pointers, bringing the score to within one point as the clock wound down. In the final moments, Narkle hit two crucial free throws, extending the Buccaneers’ lead to four points. Warwick’s Elijah Pepper attempted to keep his team in contention, scoring his sixth three-pointer of the night with just seven seconds remaining, but Geraldton effectively denied him the ball in the final seconds to secure their victory.
In addition to Narkle’s performance, Akeem Springs provided significant support with 21 points, along with Verle Williams, who added 15 points. Despite a challenging shooting night, Pepper led the Senators with 33 points, eight rebounds, four steals, and three assists, though he struggled with his shooting efficiency.
Overall, the grand finals showcased the intensity and competitiveness of the NBL1 West league, with the Cougars and Buccaneers each celebrating significant achievements in their respective championships.
