Brent Hobba, the Dragons’ Most Improved Player in season 2006-‘07, took his trademark work ethic to the suburbs on Saturday night in an impressive 120-94 win with the Dandenong Rangers in Round 1 of Big V competition.

Hobba enters the off-season in career-best form and primed to continue his rise to the top of the basketball ranks. His return for the Rangers against Waverley at the weekend showed he will again be one to watch when the new NBL season gets under way.

The Rangers have proved a formidable force in recent years, finishing runners-up in 2005 and winning the Championship in 2006. With Hobba and South Dragons teammate Ash Cannan now in the line-up, the team is a real chance at back-to-back titles in 2007.

Also in action on Saturday night was Dragons veteran Matt Shanahan, whose Ballarat Miners went down 105-101 to Knox. The Miners are 0-2 heading into Round 4 of SEABL action, but with Shanahan at the helm, expect the tide to turn.

Yesterday Adam Quick made his return for the Sandringham Sabres in a 113-106 loss to the Warrnambool Seahawks.

Quick joins a new-look Sandringham outfit that includes exciting US recruit George Williams and a host of local talent. Quick and the Sabres are sure to give the league a serious shake in 2007 and will be one of several teams under the watchful eyes of Dragons fans.

With non-stop basketball action all off-season long, there’s never been a better time to check out your favourite player’s form. Stay tuned to www.southdragons.com for the latest updates on the South Dragons stars!