MOUNT Gambier heads into the Country Basketball League finals this week as favourite to advance through to the playoff in the South West conference when it hosts Millicent Magic Saturday night at the Icehouse.
The Lakers have been unbeaten this year after 10 games, with the closest result a two-point win over the Magic.
That should provide some extra interest for Limestone Coast basketball fans, with the “local derby” the ideal hit out for the semi-final clash.
Millicent has struggled this season, winning just four games to claim a slender hold on fourth position, but now in the final has the chance to be a “giant killer”.
It is unlikely the Lakers would fall at the final hurdle before the grand final, but after the close win in Round 10 of the home-and-away series, nothing is out of the question.
The Lakers have the obvious home-court advantage, but more than that, they have the form of Kane De Wit, who has shown plenty of class this season.
De Wit averages more than 25 points-per-game and has been a thorn in most team’s sides this season.
His time with the Pioneers has certainly advanced his game, but even without him on the floor the Lakers have shown they can still get the job done.
Against Ararat Dellon Brown had a break-out 45-point game, with De Wit out for that clash.
The experience of Matthew Berkefeld cannot be understated, nor can the towering frame of Sam Stafford.
Millicent has plenty of answers in the form of Peter Duncan and Jordan Robertson, along with James Fleming and Josh Murphy.
But it remains to be seen whether they can have a similar effect as they did in the last encounter.
The Lakers deserve the championship title this season after such a dominant performance across the board.
Should they reach the grand final they will face either the Colac Kookas or the Ararat Redbacks, with the Kookas the more likely.
But first they have to ensure Millicent does not provide the upset of the season, which is unlikely given season form, the home-court advantage and what is sure to be a parochial crowd wanting success at the Icehouse.
The game tips off at 7pm.
