From where I sat it would appear that the ‘crossroads’, that re-signed coach (2 years) Shane Heal spoke of pre game with reference to his teams recent poor on road performances, have become a very straight highway.

Watching on at Vodafone arena, as I always do, I noticed an aspect of the team that I had failed to fully appreciate; the bench. Having enjoyed the game of basketball for many years I am well aware of the mechanisms behind any team bench and the need for each player to be ready to contribute but applying that theory to the South Dragons is not something I had done with any exact science. During the game against the New Zealand Breakers I was impressed by the pre game preparation, in game enthusiasm and finally the direct on court output the bench provided. From Heal to Hobba all team members come to play each and every night with the aforementioned Hobba providing his team with valuable points and hustle to which the Breakers seemed ill prepared for and unable to answer. The Big Bird as he is called Matt Burston keeps getting better, Bubbles always plays his part off the bench while each and every team member rotates through without fuss quarter after quarter.

Speaking of fuss or lack of my hat is off to playing Coach Shane Heal who refused to lose his cool during the game despite some moments which would have tested even the calmest of players. New Zealand Breaker Carlos Powell was tested and failed, in part, with regard to temperament although it must be said sincerely that he is a fantastic talent and his willingness to show emotion is good for the game on every level. I am sure however that his team would loved to have had him on court for the entire game and not with them on the bench having collected 6 fouls. Anybody who watched his performance during the All Star weekend where he took out the dunk competition would know that he is a hell of a player. Despite some highlight reel moments for Ellis and Ingles the South Dragons aren’t generally that spectacular nor should they be as it would seem that the rule of thumb is ‘get the job done’. Players such as Franklin, Drmic, Holmes and Ellis all find ways to shine but it is their constant effort that sets them apart. Scoot also never ceases to amaze me with his ability to create a shot, in traffic and finish around the hoop with an array of floaters, tear drops and English laced scoops-he does what it takes.

The next home game shapes to be a block buster with the Dragons going head to head with the Bullets and we all know what happened last time…I can’t wait…Go Dragons.