The UBL finals journey has come to an end with UWA Maali losing to La Trobe University in the qualifying final in Melbourne on Wednesday 15 May 2024.

The quest to make the University Basketball League Grand Final was halted as UWA Maali fell short in the pursuit for redemption against La Trobe University. After suffering a narrow loss to the La Trobe Eagles earlier in the season, the blue and gold team were desperate to get a win over the home side.

A disappointing start to the game saw UWA Maali trailing the Eagles, struggling to find answers to combat the intensity and physicality of the Eagles. UWA Maali remained competitive in patches but were outskilled for the majority of the game. Unfortunately, UWA Maali were dealt their biggest loss of the season, copping a 38 point loss to the home team (75-113).

For the fourth year in succession, UWA Maali have made it to the finals series, with the big dance eluding the team each year. Despite bowing out early, the growth of the young UWA Maali team throughout the season provides a silver lining.

In many respects it was a season of rebuilding as UWA Maali were riddled with player rotations due to availability and injuries. In spite of these disappointments, the team have galvanised together and have worked towards emerging out on the other side as champions, on and off court.

Congratulations to all the student athletes that have represented UWA Maali in the New Balance University Basketball League this season.

Watch all the UBL replays at UniSport TV. For more information on the UBL competition, visit UniSport.