Keilor Thunder is rolling with the punches in the National Basketball League 1 South women’s competition.
The Thunder always knew it would have some challenges with availability, but it has been tested even more in recent weeks.
The Thunder suffered a blow with guard Tayah Burrows requiring surgery for a broken leg, which will rule her out for the rest of the season.
Issie Bourne was also away with the Australian 3 x 3 side on Saturday.
On Saturday night, it had to find everything and a little bit extra to get over the line against the Kilsyth Cobras in extra time.
Thunder coach Kristi Harrower said while they didn’t play their best, it was one that was much needed as they entered the game understrength.
“It was a great win for us,” she said. “They are a better team than last year.
“I don’t know if we played that well defensively or we were where we wanted to be. [Maddy] Rocci had a huge game for us and had another triple double.”
“It was good to come away with the win.”
Rocci had 42 points while pulling down 12 rebounds and having 10 assists and five steals.
Harrower said her point guard had taken her game to the next level.
“She has done a mountain of work,” she said. “I’ve been working with her about releasing the ball a bit more.
“She carried us last night. With about a minute to go, her legs were taken out and she landed on her chin. She had stitches on her chin which is another thing we’re dealing with.”
Harrower said they had a lot of depth in their side, outside of the point guard position.
She said they were looking at their options with Burrows out for the season and Rocci to miss games when she’s away with the Australian Opals squad at the Asian Cup.
Bourne has also been named in that team, with Harrower said she was excited to be part of her first Opals team.
Harrower will again be an assistant coach for the Opals.
While losing some of their stars, Harrower said it opens up opportunities for other players.
“Isobelle Wightman has had a really good season,” she said. “I don’t think she expected to have played as much this season and she is our third leading scorer.
“It gives others who might be down on confidence the opportunity to step up.”
The Thunder, which sit in second position, will receive a much needed boost with Penina Davidson arriving in the country this week and set to suit up this week.
“She brings a lot of leadership into our group,” Harrower said. “She’s a smart player and it’s a big positive for the group.”
Harrower said the next few weeks about getting everyone into the line up and juggling their rotations.
The Thunder men’s side had a 94-78 loss to the Cobras on Saturday night.
Daniel Poelsma top scored with 21 points.
