A large number of UWA students debuted for UWA Maali in the first home game of the New Balance University Basketball League on Tuesday 26 March 2024.
The UWA Maali started its campaign in the 2024 New Balance University Basketball League with a double header against the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). The men's fixture was a closely contented game with a large number of debutants taking the court against an experienced UTS team. A strong start saw the UWA Maali side take the lead in the first quarter, after dominating UTS in all facets of the game.
UWA Maali were able to dictate the Sydney-based team for two halves of the game until UTS pulled back the margin and closed the deficit. The last quarter saw UTS push the lead to overcome UWA Maali and take the win (58-77). A great opportunity for the emerging talent in the squad to get valuable experience against a quality side. UWA Maali Men's Head Coach Jackson Mews spoke about the thrilling experience to be playing high performance basketball on campus again.
"It was an amazing experience to be back at home at UWA in front of a great home crowd. Unfortunately, UWA Maali fell short on the scoreboard but there were positives to take from the game and the team worked hard to find solutions."
UWA Maali Men's Head Coach Jackson Mews
Similarly, the women's side showcased glimpses of brilliance against a tough opponent. UWA Maali were able to build throughout the game with the young side fighting valiantly to challenge a formidable team. The intensity and effort from each player was admirable as the team collectively showed grit to claw back the margin. The final result went in favour of the opposition team with UTS claiming victory over UWA Maali (57-80).
"It was great to capitalise on the energy in the crowd at home. A disappointing display from our squad to begin the season but significant learnings to take away from the defeat to a quality side. We will regroup and revisit structures ahead of our game against the University of Adelaide."
UWA Maali Women's Head Coach Matthew Mercer
A special moment for the UWA Maali squad as the team were able to play in front of a home crowd at UWA since 2022. Congratulations to all the players and coaching staff on kick starting the season.
UWA Maali will travel to Adelaide to take on the University of Adelaide on Wednesday 3 April. Support UWA Maali and cheer the team on at the next home game on Tuesday 9 April and Wednesday 10 April.
For more information on the UBL competition, visit UniSport and watch replays at UniSport TV.