Panthers’ season off to flying start

Panthers began the new Albany Basketball Association women’s A-grade season where they left off, edging out Magpies by nine points in a grand final rematch on Tuesday night.

Last season’s premiers jumped out of the blocks to start the encounter and led by 12 points at half-time before the Magpies rallied.

Magpies trimmed the margin back to five points with seven minutes remaining but the defending premiers steadied to win 42-33 and start the season in the best possible fashion under coach David Arthur.

New recruit Tully Lane was a stand-out for Panthers, contributing 13 points, while Jade Dimer was again dangerous with 14 points. Point guard Kayla Thomas also started the season well, adding eight points.

Jasmyne Jones led the scoring for Magpies with 11 points as the only player with double figures.

Phoenix enjoyed a winning return to the A-grade competition after breaking away in the second half from Flames to record an eight-point win.

A seven-point run in the second half was decisive in the 31-23 win as Phoenix opened up the contest and were never headed after reaching a 15-point lead with less than five minutes remaining. Phoenix led by a point at half-time after Flames led narrowly for the most of the first half.

Cassandra Cheetham was a stand-out for Phoenix with a game-high 16 points, while Courtney Henderson added a vital eight points for the win. Indianna Weeden and Shianne Arthur each contributed seven points for Flames.