By Hayley Wildes
It was a terrific weekend of Big V basketball action for the Casey Cavaliers.
The State Championship men needed a win to secure their place in the finals. It was never going to be easy; facing the second-placed Waverley Falcons on their home court.
With the Falcons leading 28-22 at quarter time, the Cavs came out on a mission to save their season in the second quarter. A ridiculous 26-2 run to begin the second term not only completely changed the complexion of the game, but the season too.
The stunning 34-13 quarter had the Cavs leading 56-38 at the main break. Every player stepped up as Casey’s determination and grit shone through. The Cavs’ second quarter domination continued into the second half as they ran out 101-72 winners.
Six Casey players scored in double figures, led by sharp-shooter Matt Donlan (23 points). The game of Raheem Lemons (18 points, 17 rebounds, 5 assists) was tremendous as he finished his stunning regular season in typically dominant form.
Courtesy of their massive win, the Cavs (13-9) didn’t just sneak into finals, they made their way up to fifth position, relegating McKinnon to sixth and knocking Knox – who sat fifth before the final round – out of the all-important top six.
The Division 1 women made the trip up to Mildura and came away with the minor premiership. Taking on the first-placed Heat, it was a battle for the top spot and Casey – who sat second – sent a message to the rest of the competition on the eve of finals.
The dynamic duo of Jamie-Lee Jeffs (32 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists) and Tanarly Hodd (27 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds) were sublime and led the Cavs to a massive 110-86 win. Stephanie Pal (15 points, 10 rebounds) posted an impressive double-double.
The Cavs finished the regular season with an 18-4 record.
The Youth League 2 women also claimed the minor premiership – highlighting the incredible level of talent in the Cavs’ women’s ranks. Taking on Frankston, the Cavs produced a great team effort to claim a strong 88-73 win.
Six players scored in double figures, led by a huge double-double from Kimberley Shankland (24 points, 16 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals).
Casey’s remarkable regular season netted 16 wins and just two losses.
With finals tipping off this weekend, both women’s teams have earned a week off after finishing top of their respective competitions.
For the State Championship men, in what will be a massive match-up, they face the Hawthorn Magic in an elimination final on Saturday from 8pm at Boroondara Sports Complex in Balwyn North.
