The Tigers SEABL teams hit it off on Saturday March 10th in their first practice match on their home court against the Big V Ringwood Hawks.

The Women kicked off the proceedings undersized and undermanned against a Hawks side that’s one week off from their season opener. With the absence of Louella Tomlinson, Monique Conti, Kasey Burton, Ashlea Stainer, AJ Stewart and Katie Bugden, the remaining 5 rostered players were joined by youth league girls Zoe Cransberg, Heaven-Lee Valenti and Erin Murray.

Nevertheless the hungry Tigers stepped up to the plate and provided a competitive and entertaining match. They got their second win of the preseason with a huge 30 point margin over the Hawks. Bec Cole performed adding 31 points and was joined by Peri Kalka who was a beast in the paint with a commendable 25 rebounds.

After having the stage set by the Women, the SEABL Men took the floor looking to get a much needed win heading into the SEABL Preseason tournament next weekend not to mention the upcoming season opener.

The Melbourne Tigers looked impressive leading through each quarter to defeat the Ringwood Hawks. Tom Wilson shined, showcasing his impressive handles and shooting 70% from the 3pt line with a game high of 29 points. The game was very physical as both teams also combined for 55 fouls.

The Tigers shot most of their points close to the basket going through Deng Acuoth who showed great footwork, drawing plenty of fouls in the paint as he finished with 21 points. The game was very fast paced as the Tigers gained 14 points off turnovers, creating havoc in the passing lanes and continually pressuring the ball handler. The Ringwood Hawks never led by more than 2 points as the Tigers clearly had their claws in this game and were also the better shooting team at 52% from the field which was a key reason for the win.

Both Tigers SEABL sides take the floor in Geelong this weekend (March 17-18) in pre season action.

The Tigers kick off their 2018 season on Sunday April 8th against the Nunawading Spectres. The Women tip off at 1pm and are followed by the Men at 3pm.

Thank you Matthew Young for the SEABL Men contribution.