It was dubbed ‘The Big One’ in the Vertu Arena on Thursday night when Newcastle Eagles took on Manchester Basketball in the SLBW Championship. It turned into a Big occasion as the Eagles took a thrilling 64-61 victory to record a big win in their quest for a top four finish in the SLB table.
Once again Newcastle were led by the almost automatic double-double machine of Andrea Daley who celebrated her selection as the SLBW’s Player of the Month for March with 21 points and 15 rebounds. Shanique Lucas weighing in with 15 points and 5 rebounds.
But MVP on the night when to Sarah Wells who’s calm mature controlled display was possibly her best in an Eagles vest. Her 12 points 4 assists and 2 rebounds was effective, but it was the way she infused her calm influence and a +11 index when she on court that tipped the nod her way.
Wells started her post game thoughts by saying how much she enjoyed the experience of “The Big One” and playing in an Eagles women’s side playing on the full show court for the first time.
“We had such a great crowd. The energy was high most of the game except from the third quarter, but we took care of business. That was a lot of fun. That was a win that feels hard earned. We want a home play-off game when that time comes for sure and support like we had tonight helps.”
Whilst Wells’ numbers do not look spectacular, and she has had bigger statistical nights for the Eagles there was an intent every time she stepped on court that earned her the MVP accolade.
“I went into this game telling myself I wasn’t going to stress too much about points or statistics but I’m going to go in and really focus on the details. Defence making sure I’m in help, making sure I’m rebounding and letting the offence come to me.”
“I was able to pass the ball to my teammates who were scoring. I was able to create for myself. This was one of my better games of the season and I’m happy with it.”
The Eagles were 15-points at half-time but somehow 8-points down with just over six and a half minutes to play as Manchester almost spoiled the Big party. Wells referred to that.
“We always seem to have a quarter off. It’s a shame we’re still figuring it out at this time in April. It’s just a matter of staying disciplined for forty minutes. We’re good at staying discipling for 35/36/37 minutes but we always seem to have a lapse.”
“But that’s what we’ve been focusing on in practice the past few weeks so hopefully come play-off time we’re able to put a full forty together. One of the greatest qualities of this group is we don’t back down no matter what.”
“Even if the other team goes on a run and we make mistakes we never give up on each other and we’re super resilient and it’s a privilege to be part of a group of girls like this.”
Resilience and togetherness was indeed the Eagles watchword. They lost guard Alyssa Marin for the game in the second quarter through injury and even Lucas had to step out at times. Wells explained how her side coped.
“That’s been the story of the season. We’ve had people in and people out, but it’s helped us take different leadership roles and ownership. It’s definitely helped us build our character. We got the win and enjoyed the experience and that’s what matters.”
The Eagles now go to London Lions next Thursday and then return to the Vertu Arena next Saturday for a game against Nottingham Wildcats where they will hope to have another big crowd to back them.
Tickets for the Eagles women’s remaining games are available from the box office.
