Wolves hungry for second serving (Round One MSBL Preview)
Wanneroo Wolves face an early test to their men's State Basketball League title defence with a difficult round one doubleheader beginning on Saturday.
The Wolves, whose depth will need to stand up during captain Greg Hire's Perth Wildcats commitments early in the season, face Kalamunda Eastern Suns on the road on Saturday night before hosting 2011 semi-finalists Cockburn Cougars on Sunday.
Cockburn figures to provide Wanneroo its biggest test despite the departures of key imports Stanley Ocitti and Ty Harrelson, but the Wolves will be hoping for a similar outcome to their convincing playoff series victory on the road to their first championship since 1993.
The Cougars also meet a Perth Redbacks side expected to be big improvers after welcoming back former Perth Wildcats development player Jarrad Prior.
Perth begins the season on Friday by hosting the Eastern Suns, which finished 10th last season and will be desperate to show they can make the finals for just the second time with strong early form.
Geraldton Buccaneers have undergone significant changes in the off-season after their shock 11th placing in 2011, including bringing back veteran point guard Daniel Thomas, and their new-look side faces a challenge in a tough first round.
The Buccaneers must first travel to Bunbury to face the South West Slammers, who have also made several moves to improve on their winless season, before playing Mandurah Magic on Sunday.
Like Geraldton, Mandurah had a perfect record in the Pre-Season Blitz tournament and will be looking to show that was no fluke with wins over the Buccaneers and 2011 runner-up Perry Lakes Hawks.
Goldfields Giants have changed coach and personnel after they surprisingly missed the playoffs and will be hoping to reap the benefits on their opening two-game road trip.
The Giants face 2011 strugglers Rockingham Flames on Saturday but a tougher test is expected on Sunday against Stirling Senators.
Stirling also faces 2010 champions Willetton Tigers, who've lost Wildcats duo Matt Knight and Cam Tovey but are hoping increased stability can take them closer to the title.
Reigning minor premier Lakeside Lightning will start heavy favourites against Rockingham and East Perth, who've put a big focus on youth under new coach Adam Forde.
Article by Jacob Kagi
Photo by Helen Theoharakis (Hoop Shots)
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