Corowa Junior Basketball’s U16 Division B boys are undisputed champions after remaining undefeated throughout the season on their way to a 50-41 grand final victory over the Hornets.
Corowa U16 Division B boys capped off an outstanding undefeated season with a hard-fought 50–41 grand final victory over Hornets, displaying teamwork, determination, and composure when it mattered most.
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Team manager Harold Hall said this is the boys fourth season playing together and in that time they have developed very good teamwork
“They now know each other, how each other plays, everyone’s strengths and weaknesses and where to expect to see each other on the court,” Harold said.
“Like any sports team when you've been together for a while, you don't need a superstar in there, you just need a team that's going to play together and work together, and they do that very well.”
Corowa started strongly from the opening tip, with Jai Richey and Finn Le Lievre helping set the early tone.
Early baskets from Maxwell McQueen and Harrison Logie created scoreboard pressure, while Marshall Lees provided an important presence inside to keep momentum on Corowa’s side.
The first half was tightly contested, with Hornets repeatedly challenging through accurate outside shooting and strong transition play.
Corowa responded each time, with Nate Delamere contributing valuable points from both the field and the free-throw line, while Miles Keenes added an important free throw as Corowa took a 27–20 lead into halftime.
The second half tested Corowa’s composure as Hornets mounted several runs, cutting into the margin with perimeter shooting and aggressive defence.
Corowa remained composed, with key baskets from Jai Richey and Maxwell McQueen helping steady the side during critical moments.
As the game entered its closing stages, Finn Le Lievre stepped up with several crucial baskets to extend Corowa’s lead and shut down any chance of a Hornets comeback.
His calm finishing under pressure proved vital in the final minutes.
Corowa’s defensive intensity was equally important throughout the contest.
Strong team defence, disciplined rebounding, and relentless effort forced Hornets to work for every possession.
Austin Lees, the youngest player on the team at just 12 years old, made a valuable contribution whenever he took the court, using his defensive pressure and willingness to support his teammates to good effect.
Grand final MVP Marshall Lees shone with an outstanding all-round performance.
Marshall Lees played an outstanding all-round game, combining strong individual performances with excellent teamwork throughout the contest.
His work rate, leadership and ability to involve those around him were recognised with the Grand Final MVP award.
Corowa’s scorers were led by Jai Richey and Finn Le Lievre, with strong support from Marshall Lees, Nate Delamere, Maxwell McQueen, Harrison Logie and Miles Keenes.
The grand final victory was the perfect ending to a remarkable campaign, with the boys completing the season undefeated and proving throughout the year that teamwork, hard work, and commitment deliver results.
Finishing the season unbeaten and crowned premiers is a reward this group thoroughly earned.
Harold said they’re a level-headed group of boys who have used the finals loss from last season to drive their success this season.
“We've trained them with the mindset that you're always going to come up against the best team next week,” he said.
“You can't get ahead of yourself, you need to work hard, you need to work together all the way through.
“Last season they finished top of the table and then bombed out of the finals in straight sets, so I think that's driven them this season to not let that happen again.
“They just strive to get better and better; they’ve taken what they achieved last season and built on it.”
Future Stars Wanted for Spring Season
With the Spring Season commencing in August, Corowa Junior Basketball is now seeking players for its Under 14 and Under 16 teams.
Whether you're new to the game or looking to build on your skills, now is a great time to get involved.
For more information contact Corowa Junior Basketball via the Corowa Junior Basketball Facebook page or Harold Hall on 0401 522 601.
