B.Braun Sheffield Hatters v Newcastle Eagles – 26 November 2023
It was the first double header weekend of the season for both the women and men’s British Basketball teams. What an exiting experience for those fans who took in over 5 hours of elite basketball. After the Sheffield Sharks win over Bristol Flyers (88-78), it was time for the Hatters to take centre stage.
The first four minutes of the game was a cagey affair which resulted in a relatively even contest, but the Hatters soon began to pull away when GB international Georgia Gayle sank in a three-pointer, giving the team a 17-10 lead.
As the first quarter concluded, Hatters extended their advantage to double digits with a basket from Nicolette Fairley, securing a 29-19 lead before settling for an eight-point margin.
Entering the second quarter, the team showcased their dominance, reaching an 18-point lead, and Newcastle struggled to stay with the Hatters.
Despite the Eagles’ tenacious spirit, evidenced by Fernandez’s late score narrowing the gap to 53-42, Newcastle capitalised on the Hatters’ subpar execution. Abby Lowe’s three-pointer reduced the deficit to 58-55 midway through the game.
However, the Hatters not only endured but flourished, finding renewed energy to conclude the third quarter with a 9-0 run, expanding their lead to 75-61.
This decisive run proved insurmountable, with Newcastle unable to trouble the Hatters and eventually succumbing 94 – 78.
Dez Ramos put on an MVP performance with 20 points, 4 rebounds and 3 assists.
Top Scorers:
Dez Ramos 20 points
Carla Drennan 14 points
Q1: 29 Hatters 21 Newcastle
Q2: 24 Hatters 21 Newcastle
Q3: 22 Hatters 19 Newcastle
Q4: 19 Hatters 17 Newcastle
Final Score
94 Hatters – 78 Newcastle