BSBL 2022/23: Bulls return from mid-season break to upset Aces Sky by 22 points

The Bulls have returned from the basketball mid-season break ready to shake things up after charging through Aces Sky to record an upset victory.

The Bunbury Basketball Association’s Men’s senior competition returned from a mid-season break on Friday with teams competing in round 12 at the South West Sport Centre.

Keen to distance themselves from the bottom of the ladder, Bulls were firing out the gate with Byron Jonker and Sugar Eaton combining to help build an early lead.

Despite strong pressure and interceptions by Cooper Metcalfe and Thomas Worrigal for Aces Sky, Bulls charged through the court to build a considerable lead before a timeout.

Upon return to the court, Aces Sky began fighting back as Bulls quickly adapted to apply plenty of defensive pressure.

However, shots by Metcalfe and Riley Hall saw the Aces chew up the margin, leaving some of the Bulls frustrated at conceding their early lead.

At quarter time, Bulls led 36-27.

In the second quarter Metcalfe continued to rule the court with an early interception and capitalising with a basket in the opening seconds.

As the Bulls looked to shut down Aces, Jayden Crudeli and Eaton soon combined for a stunning show of teamwork to help maintain their lead.

As Aces continued to press their case for the lead, Jonker continued making consistent baskets to extend the Bulls’ lead, while Simon Slater made plenty of solid rebounds for the Aces.

In the midst of dynamic one-on-ones and the high pressure contest, wayward shots soon began costing the Aces, with Bulls holding strong again to lead 62-44 at half-time.

Following the main break, Jack Walker made an early interception but was unable to capitalise for the Bulls.

However, Jonker continued to make shot after shot, extending the Bulls’ lead even further.

As the contest continued to pick up intensity, Bulls ultimately held on with their aggressive approach to defence to lead 84-67 at the final change.

Despite Aces Sky continuing to fight hard throughout the final quarter and Walker being fouled out, Bulls won the match 114-92.

In other results, Bulls Maroon dominated Eaton Eagles 130-68, Conquerors smashed Tornadoes Red 106-69, and Bulls Gold edged out Tornadoes Black 75-72.

The Bunbury Senior Basketball League’s women’s competition will return on Tuesday as the senior competitions move to playing twice each week for the next month.