Giants’ women open their winning account on home court against Slammers
Goldfields Giants’ home victory against the South West Slammers, the team’s first of the 2024 women’s NBL1 campaign, has rejuvenated a group bolstered by Filipina international Jhazmin Joson for the rest of the season.
Joson emerged from her Giants debut on Saturday in the team’s 84-64 win with 10 rebounds, seven assists and five points.
Lauren Fech led the way with 18 points, eight rebounds and four assists, alongside Ashlee Sidebottom (16 points; six rebounds), Alex Clinch-Hoycard (17 points; five rebounds; two assists) and Anne Zipser (nine points; 20 rebounds).
It was also the first win as head coach for Jaymi Worthington, who said Joson came as advertised and hoped the victory would kickstart the entire group for the rest of the season.
“Her outside shooting wasn’t where she wanted it to be,” Worthington said.
“But she had the 10 rebounds and seven assists, despite getting into some early foul trouble.
“It probably took her that game to adjust, and once she’s settled in I’m sure she’ll be great.
“Someone with her background is obviously a very well-rounded player who can do a bit of everything.
“There’s exciting times ahead from her.”
After opening the season with three losses, Worthington said there was nothing like a win to lift everyone’s spirits.
“I was really impressed with Alex, Ash Sidebottom and Chloe Zorzi, who came off the bench and fared very well (12 points; six rebounds).
“All the girls who came off the bench played their roles — especially when some of the others had those early foul troubles.
“Everyone actually got on the court, contributed, and played their role when asked to.
“The atmosphere and enthusiasm among the group has really lifted, and hopefully we’ll take that into this weekend against the Redbacks.”
Aimee Borchet is expected to have an MRI on her injured knee in Perth on Friday.
The Giants sit in 10th place with a 1-3 win-loss record.
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