Sheffield Hatters 86 – 76 Caledonia Gladiators
Sheffield Hatters SLB team continued their impressive unbeaten run in the Championship, securing a hard-fought 86-76 victory over Caledonia Gladiators at the Canon Medical Arena on Sunday 27 October 2024.
They came out of the gates with characteristic intensity, racing to an 11-0 lead in the opening three minutes. Austrian star Nina Krisper’s clinical mid-range shooting set the tone early for the Hatters. Though Delaynie Bryne eventually got Caledonia on the board, Shauna Harrison’s three-point play helped Sheffield maintain a nine-point advantage after the first quarter.
The second period saw Georgia Gayle extend Sheffield’s lead before Caledonia’s Kat Tudor responded with a series of contested three-pointers to keep the visitors within striking distance. Laura Zolper’s perfect trip to the free-throw line and Harrison’s jump shot gave the Hatters an 11-point cushion at halftime.
Caledonia’s Kat Tudor came out firing after the break, spearheading a Gladiators comeback that cut the deficit to just four points. But Sheffield’s depth proved decisive, with Madison Washington and Zolper combining effectively to weather the storm. Despite late baskets from Bryne and Mathilde Domenger bringing Caledonia within two, the Hatters showed their championship mettle. Washington and Krisper connected from three-point range to restore the double-digit lead.
The final quarter saw both teams trading baskets, but the sharp-shooting duo of Gayle and Krisper kept the Gladiators at bay, ensuring Sheffield’s perfect record remained intact.
PLAYER OF THE GAME
Nina Krisper showcased her all-round game with an impressive 15 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, leading the Hatters to their latest victory.
The win keeps Sheffield Hatters at the summit of the Championship table as they continue their undefeated campaign.