James Murphy
THE Mount Gambier Pioneers men and women make the trip to Portland this weekend for pre-season hitouts at “The Lighthouse”.
Following the success of the recent Millicent 4-Team Challenge, the Pioneers will look to continue building momentum in preparation for the upcoming NBL1 South season.
The men’s side will play Geelong United on Saturday afternoon, which will follow the women’s game against Ballarat Miners.
Both teams will be bolstered in numbers as players arrive in town ready for the season ahead.
The women were without several players at the 4-Team Challenge, but have welcomed an influx of talent this week.
Sherrie Calleia arrived in town on Tuesday, while Zitina Aokuso was set to touch down today.
Both players will be big ins ahead of the weekend and their presence is felt by all on the court.
At the 4-Team Challenge, Haliegh Reinoehl and Isabella Brancatisano were clear leaders on the court, while new recruit Sammy Fatkin also slotted in well.
Calleia and Aokuso will slip into that leadership group and add another dynamic to the court.
Both have a wealth of experience and Pioneers fans will be particularly excited to see Aokuso gain more court time this year after an injury-ravaged 2023.
The men will be near full strength, with 2023 MVP Nick Marshall the only exclusion.
Tom Daly will make his 2024 debut after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Kane de Wit and Titus Robinson are back on court after overcoming injuries sustained in Millicent.
At the 4-Team Challenge the Pioneers men showcased some new talent, with lots to like about the latest recruits.
Returning players Austin Shelley and Dylan Marshall were also standouts over the weekend and impressed coach Richard Hill with their intensity.
There is plenty of talent on the roster and Hill is excited about what the group can achieve this season.
Saturday will provide another glimpse into what to expect from both teams and will give them vital court time prior to next weekend’s Blitz tournament.
The 2024 NBL1 South season will then kick off in the first week of April with the Pioneers’ first games on April 6.
This Saturday the women are scheduled for a 12.30pm tip off, followed by the men’s match at 2.30pm.
