ABA 2024-25: Albany Raiders notch third straight win in punishing fashion, Barking Owls also go three in a row

Albany Raiders have continued their blistering start to the Albany Basketball Association women’s A-grade season, chalking up their third consecutive victory with a dominant performance over Sonics Grey. The Raiders have looked their very best so far this season, with a strong round one win over Sonics Blue and a last-gasp victory over reigning premiers Denmark Magpies last week. The same punishing outfit emerged on Tuesday night, the young fiery Raiders exploding to an eye-watering 18-0 run through the opening 10 minutes of the match. Multiple defensive stops generated their quick transition offence as they resorted to their trademark full court press in the impressive 47-22 result. Keely Berry (14 points) was enormous at both ends of the floor in the first half, contesting nearly every Sonics Grey lay-up while finishing off their transitions to take a floor-high 12 points to half-time. Natalie Simpson scored eight points, while Ava Marmion finished with seven points and hit one three-pointer. Sonics Grey finally found their scoring rhythm in the second but the damage had already been done. Shianne Arthur (10 points) was their most dangerous on offence and Brooke Hanlon chipped in with seven points. Barking Owls cruised past Sonics Blue with a 54-27 triumph to notch their third straight victory to start the new season. Berry led the charge for Owls with 16 points, youngster Dakota Bremner hit 14 and veteran Rebecca Benson scored 12. Phoenix Woods (10 points) was the only Sonics Blue player to reach double figures. Denmark bounced back from last week’s tough loss to the Raiders with a commanding 17-point win over Railways Tigers. Lauren Bracewell shot 16 points and Danielle Carne contributed a crucial 14 in the 45-28 Magpies’ triumph. Shanaya Weeden (eight points) and Tayeesha Weeden (seven) toiled hard in a tough outing for the Tigers.