First-year Mountaineer sets his mind to reaching new heights

THIS year has seen Mountaineer and Eels player Bailey Nwanevu evolve his game.

Bailey Nwanevu for the Eels. Picture: Kevin Farmer

BASKETBALL: This year has been one of growth for Bailey Nwanevu.

A key draft pick for the Southern Cross Bricklaying Eels in the Toowoomba Basketball League, Nwanevu got his chance to shine for the Mountaineers.

Playing in nine games throughout the QSL season, he averaged five points on 49 per cent from the field and four rebounds throughout the season, making the most of his first opportunity at the top level.

He said the chance to have a crack at the QSL and line up against NBL-standard players has given him the motivation to push further.

“I really enjoyed the season, even though it’s all pretty new to me,” Nwanevu said.

“It just goes to show how good some of these players are, and what improvement is needed to be at that level.

“The only way to improve is playing against these guys and I’d love to be there again (NBL1 North next year).”

Nwanevu has played his role in helping the Eels to a 2-0 start to the TBL season, including a 14-point outing against the Pump Panthers last week.

He said he is enjoying the opportunity to play with freedom under coach Matt Cox, getting the green light to play the game as he sees it.

“Playing in this league been a pretty good experience for me,” he said.

“Playing with guys like Mayo (Manylok Malek) is great. They’re teaching me.

“Matt wants me to be more aggressive as a slasher and shoot the ball more. It feels good when you get told that.”

The Eels can improve their record to an unblemished 3-0 tonight when they take on the Westridge Warriors at Clive Berghofer Arena at 6pm.

The Warriors have split their two games so far this season, coming off a 27-point loss to the Washed on James Mustangs.

The Mustangs can continue their momentum and potentially move into outright second when facing off with the Panthers at 7.30pm.

The Panthers are still searching for their first victory of the season, however they will take confidence out of strong performances from Joel Seaby, Chris Longford and Noah Silcox-Smith in their defeat to the Eels.

Originally published as First-year Mountaineer sets his mind to reaching new heights