Wanneroo on top after downing Tigers (Round 3 women's wrap)
Wanneroo Wolves made a strong claim for women's State Basketball League title favouritism by stunning three-time defending champions Willetton Tigers in round three action.
The Wolves continued their unbeaten start and handed Willetton its first loss with the 73-57 triumph, in which they led by as many as 29 in the final quarter before the Tigers salvaged some respectability.
Veteran Sue Williams had 17 points to lead Wanneroo to the shockingly convincing win, which established it firmly at the top of the table with a 5-0 record.
While Willetton was poor in that game, it did thrash perennial contenders Perry Lakes Hawks 82-61 earlier in the round thanks to Melissa Marsh's 24 points.
That win was enough for the Tigers to stay in fifth spot at the end of the round, while Perry Lakes is just one spot behind despite losing its past two games.
South West Slammers are one of just three undefeated teams after surviving a scare to beat Stirling Senators 75-69.
The Slammers have never made the WSBL playoffs but sit in third spot behind the Wolves and Lakeside, which remained 3-0 after having the bye.
Losing Grand Finalists East Perth Eagles broke through for a much-needed win with a comfortable 81-58 triumph against the Senators.
East Perth had lost its first three games but were comfortable against Stirling, with Kelsey Maffin scoring 22 points to lead it to a result that saw the Senators slip to ninth.
Last year's wooden spoon winners Rockingham Flames also broke their duck, triumphing 78-65 against winless Cockburn.
New import Emma Cannon was outstanding on debut for the Flames, finishing with 28 points and 12 rebounds to help her side climb to seventh spot.
Mandurah Magic are one of only three winless sides left after they lost a 59-55 heartbreaker at Perth, which is in fourth spot after winning for the fourth time from five games.
Rachel Halleen's 17 point effort wasn't enough to get the Magic a vital win, with experienced centre Marita Payne getting it done for the Redbacks with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
Kalamunda, which had the bye, is the other team yet to win.
Article by Jacob Kagi
Photo by Darren Speedie (Vision Inspired Photography)
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