If the Chemist King Mount Gambier Lakers women’s team wins its home semi-final at the Ice House this Saturday night and seal a spot in the Country Basketball League South West decider, describing it as just another achievement would be an understatement.
Less than a fortnight ago, every player in the entire Lakers squad was out of action to catching COVID-19 or being stuck in isolation.
It forced the side to forfeit its final round clash and give up on its dream of a minor premiership in a move that threatened to derail all its good work from earlier in the season.
But the Lakers are no strangers to adversity in the 2021/22 CBL season and when speaking to the SE Voice on Tuesday coach Bryan Green confirmed the team will be ready to take on Portland in this weekend’s huge semi-final at home.
“At this stage everybody will be available,” he said.
“The girls are now out of isolation, so hopefully no one goes back into it before Saturday.
“The ones that I have seen at Pioneers training have all come out well without any lingering issues which is all I can ask for.
“We will have a light training session on Friday and be ready to go.”
Although the multiple COVID-19 interruptions experienced through the season, it has given Mount Gambier the chance to unearth a rich tapestry of local talent.
Maddy Wormald will be the only player above the age of 21 and amazingly such a young side has proven itself as one of the best in the competition winning all-but one game.
Despite the disjointed build up, the Lakers armed with the home-court advantage will start as the overwhelming favourites.
Mount Gambier has defeated the Coasters home and away with the latest success to the tune of 24 points.
That was the last time the Lakers hit the court with Pioneers captain Jasmin Howe steering the ship with each player finding the basket on multiple occasions.
Young guns such as Keryl Ousey, Mikaela Horrigan, Sophie Miles and Macey Griffith proved their worth.
But Green is anticipating a tough game against Portland with Nicola Handreck, Kayla Pickert and Alana Storm all players to watch.
“The first game we played against them was really scrappy being the season opener, so I knew it would get better,” he said.
“The second time we played a lot better, but I know they are more capable than what they did on that night and I know their coach will have them fired up.
“It will not be an easy game whatsoever and if we go out there expecting an easy win, we will get a big shock.”
Tip off in Saturday night’s semi-final will take place at 6.30pm with catering facilities provided at the IceHouse.
