James Murphy
THE Millicent Magic men have a chance to further their hold inside the top four of the Country Basketball League competition this weekend.
The Magic currently reside in third position with seven wins and four losses and now host bottom-placed Hamilton Hurricanes at Peter Seebohm Stadium this Saturday night.
It not only provides a chance to keep Millicent in the finals race, but it is also an opportunity to chip off some rust after a lengthy period without play.
Millicent’s last outing was way back in Round 7, with seven weeks having passed since then.
After four consecutive byes followed by the Christmas/New Year break, the Magic now prepare for a busy end to the minor rounds, with two double-headers following this weekend.
They played the Hurricanes in Round 4 at Hamilton, which resulted in a strong 115-86 point victory.
After an even first quarter, the Magic sealed the deal in the second and third terms, with 30-plus points in both putting the result beyond doubt.
It was a three-pronged attack from Millicent with Matt Black and Kade Bradley topping the sheets both on 26 points, while Jackson Bowden had 24.
Throw in the likes of Jack Haggett – who has an impressive 224 points to his name after nine games – and there is no shortage of firepower in the roster.
Hamilton has its own spearhead under the hoop in Joshua Miller, but the Hurricanes will likely lack the depth to cause an upset.
A win will be critical for Millicent’s season, as it looks to build momentum towards the post season while also ensuring it does not drop out of contention.
The Magic women will take an extra week off with a bye this round, before taking to the court against Mount Gambier next weekend.
Saturday’s men’s clash is scheduled for a 6.30pm tip off.
