MVP Malpass says experience got Willetton home
Grand Final Most Valuable Player Kate Malpass said the belief within her team and their experience in big game situations helped carry the Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers to their third-consecutive WSBL Championship.
Malpass claimed best on court honours with 24 points, leading her side to a one point victory over East Perth, and sealed the win by hitting the game-winning two-pointer with 4.8 seconds remaining.
“We believed in ourselves that we had the experience when it came down to the end of the game," she said.
“The final play was set up for me but that wasn’t the play. I was cramping pretty bad and in that situation you just want to be on the floor no matter what.
“The only thing going through my mind was that I couldn’t pass it. Luckily I had Zoe (Harper) there who could set a screen for me to come off and get a shot.
“The whole team played well and everyone did their job. It was by far one of the best games I have ever been involved in.
“We said at the start of the second quarter that we knew they were going to come out and try to shut down Melissa (Marsh) and I. We said to Jasmine and Ebony that now is a better time than any to take your opportunities to make shots and they did that.”
Despite letting East Perth out to a fast start and giving up 18 first half points to West Coast Waves star Sam Norwood, Malpass said the team focused on their defence right from the outset.
“We started the last few games not wanting to come out fast paced. We wanted everyone to get their hands on the ball and get everyone involved in the game," Malpass said.
Despite her good first half, The Tigers restricted Norwood to only six second half points, and their defensive pressure forced the Eagles into some key turnovers late in the game.
“We made a point of focusing on Norwood on the court, trying to double team her. In the end it worked out great because we didn’t let her get the ball," she said.
“We’re not known for our defence as a group. But we really stepped it up tonight when it counted.”
Article by Nathan Winch at the WA Basketball Centre
Photos by Mick Cronin
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