Rockhampton Cyclones win NBL1 North championship
The Rockhampton Cyclones have won the NBL1 North grand final series 2-1, avenging their heartbreaking loss of 2023. Read how they overcame the loss of one of their stars to produce a spirited comeback.
Sport
Don't miss out on the headlines from Sport. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The Rockhampton Cyclones have done it.
They have won the NBL1 North championship in Brisbane.
The Cyclones rebounded from their opening game defeat on Friday night to get the better of reigning champions Northside Wizards last night and this afternoon.
Lauren Heard was named the Finals MVP, with a series average of 15.6 points. 9.3 assists and 6.6 rebounds.
It was a spirited comeback from the Cyclones who lost not only the opening game 80-71 but also the services of their experienced guard Muffi Loader, who dislocated her shoulder seven minutes into that game.
Coach Drew Fenton had revealed that redemption was fuelling their campaign this season after they were beaten by the Wizards in last year’s final.
He said every member of the 2023 team had returned for the same reason - and that was to bring the championship back to Rockhampton.
Despite having their backs against the wall, the Cyclones levelled the series with an 81-76 victory last night.
Elite guard Morgan Yaeger had an unbelievable game, finishing with 32 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals, as the series went to the decider.
It was game on in game three and the teams could not be separated at the main break.
It was 36-all before the Cyclones blew the game open in the third, scoring 24 points to 13.
They continued their great run in the fourth, out-scoring the Wizards 20-10 to secure the much-deserved title.
The championship win is due reward for captain Lara McSpadden, who is in her fourth year with the program and been instrumental in the team’s rise to the top.
More Coverage
Originally published as Rockhampton Cyclones win NBL1 North championship
Minute’s silence for Speedway veteran, teen after tragic losses
Just days after a hearse carrying a coffin draped in a checkered flag honoured a 53-year-old speedway legend, he and a teen racer, who also tragically died of cancer, are being remembered at a regional race meet. VIDEO, TRIBUTES.
QLD School Sport pushing for mens netball nationals
Calls have been made to get the ball moving on a senior schoolboys nationals in 2025 as men’s netball participation continues to grow in the state and beyond, both in playing and officiating capacity. Details here:
‘I used to get taken out … only to find out it was just a bet’
She used to be subject to nasty bets but it only fueled this inspiring Aussie woman to greater heights.
Triple treat: St Brendan’s perfect start in school footy finals
It’s three down, 12 to go as St Brendan’s look to keep their momentum rolling in Rockhampton District Secondary Schools Rugby League grand finals. See how their 7C side set the tone on the opening day.
Minto condition: NRL legend says school is at its ‘strongest place’
St Brendan’s will contest 15 of 16 Rockhampton District Secondary Schools Rugby League grand finals this week. Scott Minto reveals what’s helping drive the school’s incredible success.
Revealed: Dolphins Cup Team of the Season
Central Queensland’s leading rugby league talent was showcased in the hotly contested 2024 Dolphins Cup. See the players who excelled, earning a place in our merit team.