Miners Look to Snap Dandenong Win Streak

The GMHBA Ballarat Miners are currently sitting fourth on the ladder, but have an opportunity to make moves towards a higher position as they take on the Dandenong Rangers, sitting third on the ladder, this Saturday night from 8pm at the MARS® MINERDOME.

The Miners are riding a high after a dominating win against the Knox Raiders, and also in celebration of Ken Horton receiving his second Player of the Week honour after an outstanding performance led to a stat line of 40 points, 20 rebounds, five assists, three steals, and a league-best four blocks. Although Roy Booker has been sorely missed in lieu of his season-ending injury, inserting new import Dyricus Edwards into the line-up has seemed to be a smooth transition, which is beneficial in ensuring that the Miners do not miss a beat as they work hard to stay in finals contention.

The Dandenong Rangers have been playing some of their best basketball of the season and are currently on a 6-game win streak, thanks to the unstoppable duo of Daequon Montreal and Tony Lewis. Montreal, currently in the midst of his best SEABL season yet, is averaging 25 points a game at 51% shooting, as well as seven rebounds a game, and not to mention a couple Player of the Week performances of his own. Similarly, Tony Lewis has been causing a lot of problems for teams in the league, as his dominance in the paint has propelled him to 24 points and 12 rebounds per game, on average. They are supported by a variety of role players that can step up to assist Montreal and Lewis on any given occasion.

The last loss for the Rangers came at the hands of the Miners, and is a task that Ballarat is well-equipped to repeat. With Ken Horton averaging 21 points a game, and leading the league in rebounds at 13.4 a game, he will likely lead the charge in getting their second win over the Rangers. Horton receives consistent support from young locals Anthony Fisher and Nathan Sobey. Fisher, who is leading the league in three-point field goal percentage at 47%, has stepped up greatly for the Miners this season, averaging 15 points, six rebounds and 2.5 assists each game. Sobey has been fantastic as well, averaging 16 points a game and providing an invaluable spark that keeps his teammates motivated and energized. Horton also has received newfound support in Edwards, who, in only two games with Ballarat, has shown that he can perform, and perform well, with the best of them.

All of the action will be at the MARS® MINERDOME this weekend in a game that is sure to be fast-paced and full of excitement. Get in to support Ballarat Basketball as the Miners take on the Dandenong Rangers from 8pm, following the Integra Ballarat Rush, taking on the Dandenong Lady Rangers from 6pm.