With a few personal dramas along the way I was unable to attend many games in the latter half of the NBL season.
I did however make it to the final game of the season.
This turned out to be game five of the grand final series.
Melbourne Tigers had managed to level the series at two games all and faced South Dragons at Hisense Arena.
On entry to the court it was obvious space was at a premium, not in the crowd but court-side for capturing images of the event.
Settling down at one end I began shooting.
The Tigers set out in an inspired fashion as was expected of such a class outfit.
The Dragons had other ideas and soon closed to gap to stamp their authority on the game.
As is now history they took the game in dominant style.
For my part it was a bittersweet experience having once followed the great Sydney Kings.
Without a team in the league I was forced to look elsewhere.
I'd originally liked the look of the Dragons but ultimately leaned towards the re-badged Sydney Spirit.
In this particular game my money was on the Tigers as I'd been made to feel very welcome at their home court, The Cage.
Despite my dilemma it was anything but a disappointing final.
The Dragons thoroughly deserved the win and as far as entertainment value goes it was right up there.
My photographic efforts now turn to SEABL and other local sports.
I'm hoping for a solid season for the Albury/Wodonga Bandits although some rebuilding has taken place.
Time will tell.
Trevor.
They say it never rains, it pours!
After driving through several hours of the wet stuff to reach the Cage this was just the scenario that faced me.
Fans poured into the venue, photographers poured onto the court and the game began like a torrent!
This was set to be the game of the season so far and didn't disappoint.
The Tigers came out hard as everyone expected given their last demoralizing defeat at the hands of the Dragons.
They looked like holding on, sneaking out to a big lead in the third term but Goorjian's boys stepped up the defensive intensity and drowned the Tigers on the floor of the Cage!
If anyone doubts the value of defense in a game of basketball go watch the Dragons and see how it's done.
When the going gets tough those Dragons certainly get going!
The pic shows a dejected Anstey as Burston takes him on on the way to the hoop, typical of the last quarter of play.
Trevor.
Well I finally made it back to Melbourne to photograph the Dragons and Hawks at Hisense Arena.
I've been looking forward to a Dragons game for a number of reasons, one of them being Brian Goorjian.
Here he is at his animated best appearing to be praying to the hoop Gods, or some other power after a call goes to the Hawks!
He's certainly a colourful character!
Both teams put on a display worthy of the trip down the Hume.
With the Hawks leading for the most part of the first half the Dragons regrouped and by the time the final term arrived had their measure and took out a hard fought win.
In a fast paced and physical encounter I dodged balls and players, cups of beer and thoroughly enjoyed the night.
Those Dragon boys just keep on keeping on!
Trevor.
With a few personal dramas along the way I was unable to attend many games in the latter half of the NBL season.
