NBS Mens League - Week 2 Wrap up

Nomads vs Checkers

Game of the Week Delivers an Instant Classic

Game 1 between Nomads and Checkers was billed as the Game of the Week, and it certainly lived up to the hype. In what was arguably one of the best regular season games we have seen in years, both teams put on a fantastic display of basketball that kept spectators engaged right until the final buzzer.

Nomads came out strong, taking an early 20-16 lead at the first break. Checkers responded brilliantly in the second quarter, taking control of the game and heading into halftime with a 43-39 advantage. Leading the charge was Pip Johnston, who scored 19 first-half points, including five three-pointers.

The second half continued at a frantic pace. Nomads chipped away at the deficit and trailed by just two points at the final break, with Checkers leading 58-56. The final quarter was a true battle, with both teams exchanging baskets and momentum swings. Neither side could create much separation, but Nomads were able to finish strongly down the stretch to secure a thrilling 79-75 victory.

The game also highlighted the exciting mix of youth and experience in the competition, with Checkers fielding a predominantly U19 lineup against a more experienced Nomads squad. The quality of play from both teams was outstanding and made for a memorable contest.

The shooting from beyond the arc was a major factor throughout the contest. Checkers knocked down 10 three-pointers, led by Pip Johnston's six makes, while Nomads connected on 7 three-pointers of their own, including four from Nick Fecheny. Despite Checkers winning the battle from long range, Nomads controlled the glass, finishing with 54 total rebounds (20 offensive, 34 defensive) compared to Checkers' 43 rebounds (13 offensive, 30 defensive). Those extra possessions, combined with their ability to convert at the free-throw line, proved crucial in securing the win.

Nomads Statistics

• Riley Sa: 35 points, 12 rebounds (3 offensive, 9 defensive), 13/18 free throws.

• Nick Fecheny: 27 points, 17 rebounds (7 offensive, 10 defensive), 3 steals, 3 blocks, 4 three-pointers made.

• Jet Aguila: 5 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists.

  
  

Checkers Statistics

• Pip Johnston: 36 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 2 blocks 6 three-pointers made.

• Riki Philpott: 16 points, 6 rebounds, 2 blocks, 1 three-pointer made.

• Jack Spicer: 15 points, 10 rebounds, 1 three-pointer made.

• Tomo O'Brien: 11 rebounds.

Full box score found here

Eagles vs FDWNZ

Eagles Hold Off Fast-Finishing FDWNZ in Shootout

Game 2 of the night delivered another thriller, with Eagles holding off a determined FDWNZ side in a high-scoring contest, eventually claiming a 110-108 victory.

FDWNZ continue to find their rhythm in their first season in the competition, while Eagles showcased some of the quality that helped them secure last year's championship. Both teams put on an offensive masterclass, combining for an incredible 218 points.

The game was close throughout, with Eagles holding a narrow 25-23 lead at quarter time before extending their advantage to 58-47 at halftime. FDWNZ continued to battle hard in the third quarter, but every time they looked set to close the gap, Eagles managed to respond and maintain their lead. At the final break, Eagles still held the advantage, leading 91-82.

The final quarter belonged to FDWNZ. They came out firing, knocking down five three-pointers in the quarter alone as they mounted a furious comeback. The newcomers finished the game with an impressive 16 made three-pointers from 33 attempts, compared to Eagles' 13 made threes, and won the rebounding battle 35-22.

Both teams were also efficient from the free-throw line, with FDWNZ converting 12 of 15 attempts and Eagles knocking down 15 of 21. Eagles produced a cleaner overall performance, committing just 13 fouls while collecting 9 steals, compared to FDWNZ's 19 fouls and 7 steals.

A standout performance from Puerto, who finished with 32 points and 17 rebounds, kept FDWNZ within touching distance all night, while Wellmax Sario's seven three-pointers helped fuel the fourth-quarter comeback.

While FDWNZ managed to erase the deficit, pull within two points, and even briefly take the lead during the closing stages, Eagles showed their championship experience when it mattered most. Despite FDWNZ's advantage on the boards and from beyond the arc, Eagles capitalised on key possessions, limited their mistakes, and found a way to secure the hard-fought 110-108 victory.

Eagles Statistics

• Owen Torcende – 25 points, 2/3 3PT, 5/7 FT

• Sam Rodgers – 16 points, 5/7 FT

• Jyfer – 9 points, 7 rebounds

• Marvin – 2/3 3PT

• Marc – 2/3 3PT

FDWNZ Statistics

• Puerto – 32 points, 17 rebounds (7 offensive, 10 defensive), 2 steals, 1 block, 3/6 3PT

• Wellmax Sario – 25 points, 7/10 3PT

• Newel Beanufe– 19 points, 3 assists, 2 steals

Full box score found here

NBS Men's League – Next Week Preview

🏀 6:15pm – Nomads vs FDWNZ

Nomads look to stay unbeaten after a strong win last week, but FDWNZ are building momentum after pushing Eagles to the limit. Expect another fast-paced, high-scoring clash.

🏀 7:45pm – Eagles vs Checkers -Game of the Week

A rematch of last year’s grand final. Eagles held on in a thriller last week, while Checkers will be desperate to respond. Always a big matchup with plenty of history behind it.

Two huge games coming up next week in the NBS Men’s League.