A spot in the Big V Youth League 1 grand final series has gone begging for the Navexa Geelong United men after falling to a rampaging Hume City in Sunday’s preliminary final at Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium.
Leading by as much as nine points during the third quarter, United could not hold off the fast-finishing Broncos, who outscored Luke Beard’s men, 31-14 in the final period to claim a 103-91 victory.
“The result didn’t go our way, so we’re very disappointed,” Coach Beard said.
“In a final, you always want to be able to execute and give a good account of yourself.
“Although the result didn’t go our way, we gave a good account of ourselves, and I’m proud of the way we played.”
Bailey Bruce and Marach Marach did all they could to get Geelong United past Hume City.
Bruce finished with 28 points in 56 per cent shooting while also grabbing four rebounds.
“He’s had a real coming-of-age period since Seth (Garcia) got injured.
“It’s hard not to be excited about the future of Geelong basketball with players the quality of ‘Baz’ and Max Zalakos coming through.
“Max did a good defensive job on Corey Fiddes, who came off 17 points in a Big V Championship playoff game on Saturday night,
Jack Moran battled hard off the bench, contributing 16 points on 58 per cent shooting, five rebounds, three assists and two steals.
“Jack left everything on the court knowing it could be his last game in Youth League,” Beard said.
Marach’s impressive season finished with 18 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
“He took a while to find his rhythm, but his game has matured so much that he gives you plenty defensively,” Beard said.
“But, when he does find his rhythm, watch out.”
Despite its earlier-than-hoped playoff exit, Geelong United can turn its attention to next year’s Youth League Qualification Series.
“We’ll do some end-of-year reviews on Thursday, the players will have September off, there will be trials in October, and we’ll be back on court in November,” Beard said.
