Gavin Mitchell was lights out for Oaklands Wolves as they picked up their first W of the EABL season, whilst Tiarna Chambers-Desmond was instrumental in helping Nottingham continue their push for the top of the WEABL North standings.
Despite a slow start to the current season, Oaklands Wolves wouldn't be denied their first win of the season last Wednesday as they saw off Copleston High School 78-68.
A big reason for the outcome was the standout play of Gavin Mitchell, who dropped a stunning 33 points, 23 more than his next closest team mate.
Doing most of his work around the basket, the 6'6 forward went 13/24 from 2pt range, collecting 18 rebounds for a monster double-double.
Five blocks further highlighted his prowess down low, with a pair of assists for good measure.
Speaking about the performance, Mitchell said: "As a team, I feel like we executed the way Coach Jefferson wanted us to play and we played to our strengths.
"I’m grateful that the team found me in spots that I like to score from. I'm just happy that we were able to get our first win of the EABL season."
Oaklands head coach Liam Jefferson added: "I’m delighted for the team and for Gavin, for him to be recognised. As an extremely young team, we have been preaching growth and skipping no steps and Gavin has been the epitome of that on a day-to-day basis.
"This performance was no surprise based on the work he’s put in to date, and I’m exited for what he could reach this season."
A repeat winner this season, Nottingham's Tiarna Chambers-Desmond is no stranger to big performances and she produced another one on Wednesday as Nottingham claimed a 61-58 road win against Charnwood College Riders.
In the battle to catch leaders Manchester, Chambers-Desmond's 13 points and seven boards made a big difference in the low-scoring contest. Her point total and rebounds were both in the top two for her team, whilst her five steals were a game-high, providing valuable stops.
Three of her steals came in the fourth quarter as Nottingham looked to close out the game, halting the Riders momentum and sending the Wildcats to their fourth win of the season.
Speaking about the award, Chambers-Desmond said: "It’s an honour to be WEABL Player of the Week. I’m so grateful to be noticed as a top player in the league this week.
"Being able to play to my strengths in tough games like yesterday allows me to develop and become my best self within the game."
Nottingham Head Coach Siobhán Prior added: "Games like yesterday are really important for the team’s development. Not playing at your best and grinding out a win against a good opponent is a real opportunity for growth and we grew yesterday as players and as people.
"I’m proud of all the girls and I’m grateful for the poise, positivity and assertiveness Tiarna continues to challenge herself to bring to the team.
"A very deserving second Player of the Week for T. I’m pleased she’s seeing the success she deserves."
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