Aspley Archives - Page 3 of 9

Nathan McSweeney: Grace Under Pressure as Konstas Steps Into the Spotlight

A standout performance for Nathan McSweeney—an unbeaten 78 off 49 balls—for the Brisbane Heat against the Adelaide Strikers highlights his resilience and character. Just days after learning he would not retain his spot in the Australian Test squad for the Boxing Day Test, the Nudgee College old boy demonstrated the determination that has defined his cricket journey.

Read: Proposed Development to Boost Short-Term Accommodation Options in Carseldine

From grace under pressure

The Brisbane-born cricket star responded to his Test omission with remarkable poise. McSweeney was among the first to contact his replacement, Sam Konstas, offering congratulations and support. “We are great mates,” Konstas revealed. “He texted me straight away congratulating me, which sums him up as a bloke because he is so humble and very giving.”

Returning to his hometown provided McSweeney with the ideal place to come to terms with the news. “If there’s ever a place to come back to after getting some bad news, it’s here with family and some of the boys I grew up playing with,” McSweeney told ABC Sport. The Gabba crowd roared for their hometown hero as he walked out to bat in the BBL match, a powerful display of local support.

New chapter for Nathan McSweeney

McSweeney’s struggles against India’s pace attack, particularly Jasprit Bumrah, who dismissed him four times in six innings, contributed to his averaging 14.40 in three Tests. Yet, former England captain Michael Vaughan sees a silver lining, suggesting McSweeney’s future lies in the middle order. “I think he will end up being an Australian Test cricketer, but I don’t think it’ll be up the top of the order,” Vaughan told Fox Sports.

“If I was McSweeney, next time I get the chance to wear the baggy green, I’d want him to be in the position that he’s played all his life.”

Sam Konstas, the Greek prodigy

As McSweeney charts his path forward, all eyes turn to his 19-year-old replacement. Sam Konstas is poised to become Australia’s fourth-youngest Test debutant, joining the ranks of Ian Craig, Pat Cummins, and Tom Garrett. The young Australian of Greek descent has captured attention with his standout Sheffield Shield season, averaging 55.83 and becoming the youngest player since Ricky Ponting to score twin centuries in a Shield match.

Selection committee chairman George Bailey cited the need for a fresh approach against India as the catalyst for change. “I think Sam’s method, his style, is different to Nathan’s, providing the option of a different look and a different make-up for the XI come Boxing Day,” Bailey explained.

Konstas has already proven his mettle against quality opposition, scoring 107 for the PM’s XI against the touring Indians. His composed performance during a challenging session under lights at the SCG, marked by classical stroke play and maturity beyond his years, convinced many of his readiness for Test cricket.

Read: Zillmere and Bracken Ridge Youth Benefit from Innovative Sports Program

Looking ahead

As cricket’s carousel turns, McSweeney’s immediate response—both on and off the field—suggests his Test story may have only just begun. His BBL performance serves as a reminder of his all-format capabilities, while his graceful handling of the situation has earned widespread respect.

For Nathan McSweeney, surrounded by family and friends in Queensland this Christmas, the focus remains clear. Reflecting after his BBL innings, he echoed the words of Marnus Labuschagne: “It is not where it starts, it is where it ends, and every good story has its ups and downs.” His story, it seems, is far from over.

Published 24-December-2024

Bullets vs Taipans: Brisbane Dominate Cairns but Face Injury Concerns

The Brisbane Bullets secured a crucial 107–104 victory in the Bullets vs Taipans matchup on Friday night at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, fueling playoff optimism despite an injury to import guard James Batemon.

Read: Targeted Attack Suspected in Deagon Home Invasion

The dynamic duo of Casey Prather and Keandre Cook delivered outstanding performances, combining for 65 points as Brisbane improved to an 8–8 record and climbed to sixth place on the NBL ladder. Prather dazzled with 35 points, including an impressive 6-of-9 from beyond the arc, while Cook contributed 30 points and six rebounds, keeping the passionate home crowd on their feet.

Injury concerns cast shadow

The victory came at a cost, as Batemon exited the game in the opening minute of the fourth quarter with what appeared to be a left hamstring injury. The import guard, who had been making headlines since his 51-point explosion against Perth last month, managed nine points and seven assists before his premature departure.

“A lot happened tonight that we weren’t ready for,” said head coach Justin Schueller, addressing Batemon’s injury. “To find some resolve and get through it, I’m just proud that we stayed with it and found a way.”

Bullets vs Taipans, a game of momentum swings

The contest proved to be a rollercoaster affair from the opening tip. After Brisbane established an early 13-8 lead, the Taipans retaliated with a blistering 14-0 run. The Bullets, showcasing their mental fortitude, clawed their way back through Prather’s sharpshooting and timely contributions from Josh Bannan.

Both teams delivered an exceptional shooting display, combining for 30-of-59 success from three-point territory. Brisbane’s efficiency stood out, shooting 50 percent from the field and converting 13 of their 27 attempts from beyond the arc.

The final quarter provided plenty of nervous moments for Bullets fans. Prather briefly joined Batemon on the bench with back soreness, but the team’s depth shone through. Tyrell Harrison contributed 12 points, while Tohi Smith-Milner made crucial plays down the stretch to secure the win.

Playoff push continues

The victory positions the Bullets firmly in the playoff race as they prepare for a crucial Christmas Eve clash with the Adelaide 36ers. The road game against the seventh-placed 36ers (7-9) presents another opportunity for Brisbane to solidify their top-six position.

Read: Zillmere and Bracken Ridge Youth Benefit from Innovative Sports Program

With the team displaying impressive resilience and their imports in commanding form, Bullets fans have reason for optimism heading into the festive season schedule. However, Batemon’s injury status remains a concern to monitor in the coming days.

Published 22-December-2024

Match preview published on 18-December-2024.

Bullets vs Taipans: Defence in Focus as Brisbane Target Cairns

The Brisbane Bullets return to their home court this Friday, 20 December, with a chance to regain their winning momentum against the struggling Cairns Taipans, who enter the match riding a 12-game losing streak. Bullets vs Taipans tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: Aspley Actor to Star in Fast-Paced Comedy ‘Australian Open’ at PIP Theatre

Building on recent success

Despite a setback in Sydney that snapped their three-game winning streak, the Bullets have shown remarkable improvement in recent weeks. Their high-octane offense averaged an impressive 113.3 points during their three-win run, showcasing a new fast-paced style that has energized both the team and their supporters.

The transformation has been particularly evident in players like Keandre Cook, who exploded for a career-high 33 points in their victory over South East Melbourne Phoenix. Meanwhile, Casey Prather has maintained his consistent offensive output, most recently demonstrated by his 28-point performance against the Kings.

Bullets soon to fire on all cylinders

The timing couldn’t be better for the Bullets, as key forward Josh Bannan is expected to make his return soon—from an ankle injury that prompted the team’s tactical shift. His presence could provide additional flexibility to head coach Justin Schueller’s gameplan, while Deng Adel’s imminent return from hand surgery will further bolster the roster.

While the Bullets’ offensive prowess has been turning heads, Coach Schueller has emphasized the importance of defensive improvement as they enter the second half of the NBL25 season with a 7–8 record.

“We know we can put enough points on the board against anyone in this league,”” Schueller explained. “It’s more what we’re doing at that end of the floor and that’s where our greatest growth will come, and what we’ll keep working on every single day as we move forward on this season.”

Read: Retro Share House in Boondall Offers a Swinging Sixties Vibe

Bullets vs Taipans

The match-up against Cairns presents an ideal opportunity for the Brisbane to implement these defensive principles while maintaining their explosive offensive form.

With the home crowd backing them and key players potentially returning, the Bullets are poised to take advantage of the Taipans’ struggles and push towards a .500 record—delivering an early Christmas gift with hopefully another dominant performance on their home court.

Aspley Actor to Star in Fast-Paced Comedy ‘Australian Open’ at PIP Theatre

Aspley actor Hayden Parsons is set to take on the role of Lucas, an elite tennis player, in the Queensland premiere of “Australian Open,” a contemporary comedy opening at PIP Theatre in Milton.

A Play Set to Serve Laughs and Surprises

Written by Angus Cameron, “Australian Open” combines wit, sharp dialogue, and modern themes of relationships and societal expectations. The story follows Felix, celebrating his 31st birthday, whose dinner with his parents turns chaotic after revealing plans to maintain an open relationship with his boyfriend Lucas—even if they decide to marry.

Hayden Parsons, who comes from a notable tennis family in Aspley, understudies the role of Lucas, adding a personal touch to the character’s elite tennis background.

Hayden Parsons Australian Open — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Hayden’s family has deep ties to Brisbane’s tennis scene. His grandparents ran a prominent tennis coaching business in Everton Park from the 1970s to 1990s, while his mother, Helen Parsons, represented Australia in professional tennis, even competing at the World Masters Championships in Portugal earlier this year.

Hayden himself grew up playing tennis, making his role in “Australian Open” particularly fitting.

A Local Production Bringing Brisbane Artists Together

“Australian Open” is directed by Hayden Burke, Artistic Director of 7th Floor Theatre, in collaboration with PIP Theatre. Burke describes the play as a “hilarious ensemble piece” that uses humour to challenge traditional views of relationships while championing queer culture.

This production continues 7th Floor Theatre’s efforts to support local talent through initiatives like Pot Luck Plays, which nurtures playwrights and actors with regular readings and professional opportunities.

The play features an impressive cast, including Matilda Award winner Sandro Colarelli as Peter, Lisa Hickey as Belinda, Whitney Duff as Annabelle, Tye Shepherd as Felix, and Jackson Paul as Lucas. Each cast member brings a wealth of experience from stage and screen, ensuring a high-calibre performance for Brisbane audiences.

When and Where to Watch

The limited season of “Australian Open” runs at PIP Theatre, Milton, from 8 to 18 January 2025. Evening shows will be held Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with Saturday matinees at 2:00 p.m. Tickets start at $36, with bookings available through the PIP Theatre website.

GET TICKETS

The production promises a blend of comedy, contemporary relevance, and local talent, making it a must-see event during Brisbane’s theatre season.

Published 18-Dec-2024

Nudgee College’s Matthew Turner Strikes Gold and Silver at National Championships

In a remarkable display of athletic prowess at the 2024 Australian All Schools Athletics Championships, Nudgee College’s Matthew Turner has emerged as one of Queensland’s brightest middle-distance running prospects, claiming gold and silver medals across two challenging events.

Read: Boondall Wetlands Bikeway: A Cyclist’s Paradise in South East Queensland

Matthew Turner, from silver to gold

The three-day championship event at Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre featured Turner showcasing his exceptional racing talent. On Friday, 6 December, Turner earned silver in the under-15 800m final with an impressive time of 1:56.43, finishing just behind fellow Queenslander Tate Van Camp, who crossed the line at 1:55.01.

Two days later, Turner returned to the track for the under-15 1500m final. In a thrilling push to the finish line, the Nudgee College athlete secured gold with a superb time of 4:17.87, outpacing Queensland teammate Saul Ackfield Kennard by more than three seconds.

Read: Christmas Comes Early to Aspley as Mystery Donor Pays Off Toys Lay-Bys

Turner’s success is a triumph for St Joseph’s Nudgee College in Boondall, with his results highlighting both his raw talent and the relentless dedication needed to excel at the elite level in two separate events.

Published 15-December-2024

Bullets vs Phoenix: Resilient Brisbane Storm Back to Claim Third Straight Victory

Keandre Cook delivered a career-best performance to propel the Brisbane Bullets to a memorable 116–108 victory over the South East Melbourne Phoenix at home on Thursday. Brisbane notches their third consecutive triumph—their longest of the season—with a win in the Bullets vs Phoenix matchup.

Bullets showcased the team’s offensive firepower and resilience as they overcame a 15-point deficit early in the third quarter to improve their season record to 7–7.

Read: Twinkling Treasures: Best Christmas Light Displays Around Aspley

Offensive explosion fuels second-half comeback in Bullets vs Phoenix

Cook led all scorers with a spectacular 33-point display, shooting an efficient 9-of-14 from the field including five three-pointers. The dynamic guard also contributed five rebounds, four assists, and two steals in what was undoubtedly his finest performance in Bullets colours.

The victory didn’t come easily for the home side, who found themselves trailing by 15 points early in the second half. However, the Bullets’ commitment to their high-tempo offensive strategy paid dividends as they mounted an impressive comeback, outscoring the Phoenix 68-49 in the latter stages of the contest.

Team effort showcases Bullets’ depth

Centre Tyrell Harrison continued his dominant form with another double-double, recording 23 points and 12 rebounds while shooting an impressive 10-of-13 from the field. The supporting cast also made significant contributions, with James Batemon and Casey Prather each adding 16 points, while Isaac White enjoyed a season-best performance with 13 points, including perfect shooting from beyond the arc.

The victory marks Brisbane’s longest winning streak of the season, building on impressive performances against Adelaide and Melbourne United in Round 11. The team’s offensive output has been particularly noteworthy during this stretch, with scoring totals of 102, 122, and now 116 points in their last three outings.

Read: Boondall Wetlands Bikeway: A Cyclist’s Paradise in South East Queensland

The Bullets will look to extend their winning streak to four games when they travel to Sydney to face the Kings on Sunday afternoon. The away fixture presents another opportunity for Brisbane to continue their momentum and climb further up the NBL ladder as Round 12 comes to a close.

Published 13-December-2024

Match preview published on 10-December-2024.

Bullets vs Phoenix: Brisbane’s Playoff Push Takes Flight After Melbourne Triumph

The Brisbane Bullets enter Thursday night’s clash against South East Melbourne Phoenix riding high on what Derek Rucker calls “Brisbane’s best win in eight years,” setting the stage for a pivotal contest that could reshape the NBL playoff picture. Bullets vs Phoenix tip off 7:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: Bullets vs 36ers: Brisbane Dominate Heritage Round with Back-to-Back Wins

Strength in numbers

Fresh off a stunning upset over league-leaders Melbourne United, the Bullets showcased their offensive firepower in a performance for the history books. Their 122-point explosion, marked by an extraordinary 64% shooting display, not only snapped a 12-game losing streak against United but also demonstrated the team’s emerging potential.

The victory featured a remarkable scoring spread. Keandre Cook and Casey Prather led the charge with 27 points apiece, while Tyrell Harrison and James Batemon added 25 each. Their combined efforts made for the second-highest scoring total of the 40-minute era.

NBL analyst Derek Rucker sees this performance as more than just a single victory. “It was a masterpiece what they did to Melbourne,” Rucker explains. “This is the blueprint for success… those imports must accept responsibility for producing to this type of level and efficiency.”

Bullets vs Phoenix

With momentum on their side, the Bullets now enter a season-defining stretch. Sitting at 6–7 and positioned eighth on the ladder, Brisbane faces a critical matchup against the seventh-placed Phoenix (7–8). Thursday’s home game represents more than just another regular-season clash – it’s a chance to capitalise on momentum and make a decisive move toward the Play-In Tournament.

Adding to the stakes is the looming weekend game against the Sydney Kings. Brisbane will travel to Qudos Bank Arena to face the Kings on Sunday, 15 December at 3:30 p.m.—a demanding back-to-back schedule could prove transformative for the Bullets’ season.

Read: Christmas Comes Early to Aspley as Mystery Donor Pays Off Toys Lay-Bys

Two victories this week could vault Brisbane into playoff contention, transforming their mid-season narrative from hopefuls to genuine contenders. For Bullets faithful, it’s a chance to witness whether their team can replicate the offensive masterclass that has suddenly made the NBL playoff race significantly more interesting.

Bullets vs 36ers: Brisbane Dominate Heritage Round with Back-to-Back Wins

The Brisbane Bullets emphatically stamped their authority on the NBL with back-to-back victories, perfectly honouring Heritage Round celebrations. In Bullets vs 36ers, Brisbane overwhelmed Adelaide 102–83 in front of their 1985 championship heroes and NBA Hall of Famer George Gervin.

They then travelled to Melbourne to upset league leaders United 122–114 in a high-scoring spectacle.

Read: Twinkling Treasures: Best Christmas Light Displays Around Aspley

Prather sets the tone in Bandits vs 36ers

Casey Prather’s standout performance against Adelaide set the stage for a memorable weekend of basketball. The dynamic forward scored a season-best 33 points on an extraordinary 14/17 shooting, including 4/5 from beyond the arc. Tyrell Harrison added 19 points and 18 rebounds, and together the duo combined for 29 points on perfect 12/12 shooting in the opening quarter alone.

Brisbane fans at the Entertainment Centre were treated to a complete team effort. Captain Mitch Norton contributed 17 points and five assists, while Tohi Smith-Milner and James Batemon also reached double figures, ensuring the Bullets controlled the game from start to finish.

Melbourne breakthrough signals new era

Building on their Adelaide triumph, the Bullets carried their confidence into Melbourne and ended a 12-game losing streak against United with a stunning 122–114 victory. Shooting an impressive 64 percent from the field, Brisbane delivered their most complete performance of the season.

Four starters reached the 25-point mark, showcasing the team’s offensive depth. Casey Prather and Keandre Cook led with 27 points each, while James Batemon and Tyrell Harrison both added 25 points, demonstrating the versatility of Brisbane’s roster.

Heritage Round magic

The weekend encapsulated Heritage Round magic, blending past glories with a promising future. NBA legend George “The Iceman” Gervin and members of the Bullets’ 1985 championship team, including icons Cal Bruton and Leroy Loggins, brought an extra layer of significance to the celebrations.

The weekend wasn’t just about honouring history—it marked the beginning of a new chapter with GameAbove Sports joining the ownership group, promising a brighter future for the franchise.

Read: New Indoor Sports Centre Expansion in Zillmere to be Explored for 2032 Olympics

The Bullets now shift their focus to Thursday’s home clash against the South East Melbourne Phoenix, riding high on the momentum of two of their most significant wins this season. With the team firing on all cylinders and the spirit of Heritage Round still alive, Brisbane has sent a clear message to the rest of the NBL: they are a force to be reckoned with.

Published 09-December-2024

Match preview published on 02-December-2024.

Bullets vs 36ers: Playoff Pressure Mounts as Brisbane Eye Adelaide Clash

The Brisbane Bullets approach a demanding stretch in their NBL campaign, preparing for a critical double-header against the Adelaide 36ers and Melbourne United. Bullets vs 36ers tip off 6:30 p.m. on Friday, 6 December, at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Afterwards, the Bullets will travel to John Cain Arena for a showdown against league-leaders Melbourne United on Sunday, 8 December at 1:30 p.m.

Read: Aspley Christmas Market Promises Festive Fun

Perth wake-up call

The Bullets’ recent trip to RAC Arena served as a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NBL. Just two weeks after their commanding home victory over Perth, where James Batemon exploded for 51 points, a depleted Brisbane squad faced a stark reality on the road.

Missing five key rotation players—Tyrell Harrison (illness), Jarred Bairstow (ankle), Tohi Smith-Milner (concussion), Josh Bannan (ankle), and Deng Adel (broken hand)—the Bullets struggled to contain the Wildcats, who shot an impressive 55% from the field.

Despite the challenging circumstances, several Bullets players showed encouraging signs. Casey Prather shone against his former team, delivering 31 points on highly efficient 11/15 shooting.

Additionally, 18-year-old Next Star Rocco Zikarsky made the most of his first starting opportunity, recording 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks in a performance that showcased his immense potential.

Head coach Justin Schueller was optimistic about his team’s younger players stepping up. “I’m proud of our young guys who came in and just gave us something as in their effort and energy,” Schueller said, highlighting the contributions of Josh Kunen, Kye Savage, and Tristan Devers.

Bullets vs 36ers

Friday’s home clash against the sixth-placed 36ers (6–6) looms as a must-win encounter, with both teams vying for a coveted play-in spot. The challenge intensifies on Saturday when the Bullets travel to John Cain Arena to face league-leaders Melbourne United (11–4), who previously dominated Brisbane 120–103 in Round 8.

Read: The James Batemon Effect: Brisbane Bullet’s Winning Formula

For now, the spotlight is on Brisbane’s critical home clash against Adelaide. With only two wins dividing the teams in the battle for the final play-in spot, this matchup carries significant weight for the Bullets’ playoff aspirations.

Twinkling Treasures: Best Christmas Light Displays Around Aspley

This holiday season, Aspley and its surrounding neighborhoods are lighting up the streets with spectacular Christmas displays. Whether you’re strolling through Aspley itself or exploring nearby Bald Hills, Bracken Ridge, and Carseldine, you’re in for a treat.

Read: Aspley Christmas Market Promises Festive Fun

From stunning light displays to festive decorations, these areas offer the perfect opportunity for families and friends to enjoy the holiday magic. Here are some must-see displays that will fill your heart with Christmas cheer.

Aspley: A Festive Delight

Aspley home’s Christmas lights display (Photo credit: christmaslightsearch.com.au)

The owner of a home at 11 Stonycroft Street in Aspley shared that they have been setting up the display for about a decade and it usually takes over a month to complete.

They expressed their joy in sharing the display with the community, and highlighted that the best part of their display is that it is computer-controlled and synced to music, which visitors can tune into.

Bald Hills: A Sparkling Start

Display at 167 Kluver Street, Bald Hills (Photo credit: christmaslightsearch.com.au)

Bald Hills lights up with festive cheer, offering some truly spectacular displays. Streets like Arnica Crescent and Kluver Street are transformed into holiday wonderlands, with homes twinkling in a variety of colors and themes.

Bracken Ridge: A Community Affair

83 Sophy Crescent, Bracken Ridge (Photo credit: christmaslightsearch.com.au)

The Christmas light displays in Bracken Ridge are a reflection of the strong community spirit that thrives in the area. Homes on Sophy Crescent and Stradbroke Street are decked out in vibrant lights, with many displays offering interactive elements like Santa’s sleigh and festive inflatables.

The owners of a display on Sophy Crescent shared that the highlight of their setup is the vibrant array of colors and playful animal-themed decorations, featuring beloved characters like Bluey and Bingo.

The owner of 21 Emma Street in Bracken Ridge has been creating festive Christmas light displays for a couple of years, complete with inflatables, lasers, projections, a window display, and a bubble, smoke, or snow machine. They shared that it takes about a month to set up and is a labor of love, bringing fun and joy to the whole family.

Carseldine: Bright Nights Ahead

A Carseldine homeowner is debuting their Christmas lights display this year, sharing that it took a month to set up. They expressed their love for decorating, saying it brings them joy to see the festive lights come to life.

Tips for Visiting

Map Out Your Route
Make sure to plan your visit and focus on one neighborhood per night to fully appreciate the displays.
Bring the Kids
These light displays are ideal for children, with many homes offering fun and interactive elements like taking photos in Santa’s sleigh or receiving a candy cane.
Arrive Early
To beat the crowds and secure the best viewing spots, it’s recommended to arrive early in the evening.

Read: Aspley Mum Wins $100 Million After Leaving Winning Ticket in Glovebox

Celebrate the Season

From Aspley to Bald Hills, Bracken Ridge, and Carseldine, these neighborhoods offer some of Brisbane’s most beautiful and festive Christmas light displays. Whether you’re admiring synchronized shows, enjoying the sight of inflatable Santas, or simply strolling through the glowing streets, these suburbs provide the perfect setting to create holiday memories.

Published 5-December-2024

Aspley Christmas Market Promises Festive Fun

Aspley’s Dorville Road is about to transform into a winter wonderland this Saturday with the Carseldine Christmas Twilight Markets.

On Saturday, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., locals and visitors can indulge in a festive extravaganza filled with food, music, and merriment.

The market will feature various stalls offering unique handmade gifts, perfect for Christmas shoppers. From bespoke jewellery to quirky homewares, there’s something for everyone. Food lovers can tantalise their taste buds with various gourmet food trucks serving everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to Spanish paella.

The Stone & Wood pop-up bar will serve refreshing drinks for those seeking a more festive beverage. The highlight of the evening will be the Ugly Christmas T-Shirt Competition, where attendees can showcase their most outrageous holiday attire.

Families can enjoy various activities, including meeting Santa Claus and his furry friends, watching live performances, and participating in kids’ activities.

The Carseldine Christmas Twilight Markets promise to be unforgettable, with a vibrant atmosphere and a plethora of festive cheer.

Published Date 20-November-2024

The James Batemon Effect: Brisbane Bullet’s Winning Formula

Photo Credit: Brisbane Bullets/Instagram

“Expect a guy who can shoot the three, who can attack [the rim], and who can get his teammates involved, and look to wreak havoc when defending the opposing point guards on the other end,” James Batemon of the Brisbane Bullets boldly declared before the NBL25 season started. And he is certainly delivering.

Initially pegged as a defensive-minded floor general, the 27-year-old rising star is showcasing his versatility and making history. Batemon has transformed into one of the NBL’s most prolific scorers, delivering the highest individual score in the league’s 40-minute era, a historic 51-point performance against the Perth Wildcats, in a game that also saw him sink nine 3-pointers.

Read: Bullets vs Wildcats: Brisbane Soars as Batemon Delivers Historic 51-Point Masterclass

Solid All-around Player

While his scoring has grabbed headlines, Batemon’s defensive tenacity remains a cornerstone of his game.

His Brisbane Bullets profile describes him as “…a well-rounded point guard with a defensive mindset who is a more than capable playmaker and distributor, and has a knack of knocking down the big shot.”

His modest statline of 5.6 points per game coupled with feisty defence in Brisbane’s 0-3 start initially reflected this defensive-first assessment. However, his offensive game soon exploded, with his back-to-back 20-point performances propelling the Bullets to their first two victories of the season, signalling his emergence as the team’s offensive catalyst.

Global Journey to Brisbane

Before donning the Bullets jersey and moving to Australia, Batemon crafted his game across two continents. His collegiate career began in the United States at North Dakota State College of Science, where he averaged 20.8 points as a sophomore, before transferring to Loyola Marymount University.

At Loyola as a junior, he ranked fourth in scoring, among the nine schools in the West Coast Conference (WCC), leading all newcomers with an average of 17.8 ppg in his All-WCC Second Team season.

The following year, in his senior collegiate campaign, the budding star started and played all 34 games, making school history with the third-most minutes played in a season at 1201.

He dominated the WCC with 54 steals and started to make a name for himself, making it into the All-WCC First Team and the Lou Henson Award Watch List. He was also the Jamaica Classic Montego Bay Division MVP.

Batemon ended his collegiate career tied for 13th with a 17.0 career ppg, 15th in career free throws made (323), 16th in career assists (261), and third in career minutes averaged (25.2).

Batemon’s professional career had a rocky start, however, with the 2019 NBA Draft season leaving him high and dry. Undrafted in the US, he moved to Europe to start his pro career, playing for the Latvian-Estonian League with BK Ogre. His professional career spans Latvia, France—where he earned LNB Pro B MVP honours—Greece, Germany, and Israel, each stop adding layers to his versatile skill set.

NBL25 Performance Highlights

After moving to Australia for NBL25, the talented point guard’s influence on the Bullets’ fortunes has been undeniable. Averaging 15.9 points on remarkable shooting splits of 51.7% from both the field and three-point range, Batemon’s scoring prowess has become the team’s barometer for success.

In the Bullets’ four victories, his numbers have surged to 28.3 points per game on an even more efficient 59.7% field goal and 62.2% three-point shooting:

12 October: 20 points (7-14 FG, 6-9 3P) in an 87-85 win over Phoenix
17 October: 21 points (8-14 FG, 5-8 3P), 5 rebounds in an 84-73 victory against NZ Breakers
2 November: 21 points (9-16 FG, 3-5 3P), 6 rebounds versus Cairns Taipans in a 92-88 win
17 November: Historic 51 points (19-28 FG, 9-15 3P), 4 rebounds, 2 steals, zero turnovers in a 105-84 triumph over Perth

Role evolution

Despite his scoring capabilities, Batemon’s path in Brisbane hasn’t been linear. After starting the season in the first unit, he transitioned to a sixth-man role for six games, including three of the Brisbane Bullets’ wins. When injury forced him back into the starting lineup against Perth, he rose to the occasion with his unprecedented 51-point masterpiece, showing up masterfully to his appointment with destiny.

Read: Brisbane Entertainment Centre Struggles to Meet Demand as Big Acts Seek Larger Venues

With the Bullets currently at 4-6, Batemon’s emergence as a scoring threat alongside his established playmaking and defensive abilities positions him as a crucial piece in Brisbane’s push toward playoff contention. His remarkable efficiency and ability to take over games suggest that the best may be yet to come for both himself and the Bullets in NBL25.

Originally published 29-September-2024. Updated 19-November-2024..

Bullets vs Wildcats: Brisbane Soars as Batemon Delivers Historic 51-Point Masterclass

James Batemon joined NBL’s elite on Saturday night, becoming just the second player in the 40-minute era to score 50+ points, leading the Brisbane Bullets to a commanding 105-84 victory over the Perth Wildcats at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: New Indoor Sports Centre Expansion in Zillmere to be Explored for 2032 Olympics

Batemon breaks fifty in Bullets vs Wildcats

The American guard’s historic 51-point performance puts him alongside Melbourne United’s Chris Goulding, who achieved the feat in 2014. Batemon’s shooting clinic included a franchise-record nine three-pointers, as he shot a blistering 67.9% (19/28) from the field and 60% (9/15) from beyond the arc.

“When I looked up at the scoreboard, the most nervous I’ve ever been honestly in basketball was shooting that free-throw when I had 39,” Batemon said.

“I was thinking, ‘Man I’m about to get 40, I’ve never scored over 34’.”

After a competitive first quarter that saw Perth leading 26-25, the Bullets took control in the second frame and never looked back. Batemon’s explosive shooting display reached new heights in the third quarter, where he connected on four three-pointers to help Brisbane build a substantial lead. The Bullets maintained their momentum through the final period, extending the margin to 21 points by the game’s end.

While Batemon commanded the spotlight, his teammates delivered crucial support. Keandre Cook contributed 17 points, including four three-pointers, while Next Star Rocco Zikarsky registered a career-high 13 points. Captain Mitch Norton’s defensive masterclass proved instrumental, holding Wildcats star Bryce Cotton to just 13 points on 3/16 shooting.

“When I looked up at the scoreboard, the most nervous I’ve ever been honestly in basketball was shooting that free-throw when I had 39,” Batemon says. “I can’t really explain the feeling. It was like I was in a movie.”

Read: Deagon Educator Recognised at the Family Day Care Awards

Playoff push for the Bullets

The victory improves Brisbane’s record to 4-6 heading into the FIBA break, positioning them just one spot away from a playoff position. The Bullets face a crucial stretch ahead, beginning with a rematch against the Wildcats in Perth on 29 November.

With Batemon emerging as an elite scoring threat and strong team chemistry evident, Brisbane’s playoff aspirations have received a timely boost.

Published 18-November-2024

Match preview published on 15-November-2024.

Bullets vs Wildcats: Brisbane Eye Fresh Start as NBA Great Gervin Joins Ownership

Brisbane Bullets aim to reverse their fortunes against the Perth Wildcats this Sunday, marking their first home game since announcing new ownership partners. Bullets vs Wildcats tip off 3:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: Brisbane Entertainment Centre Struggles to Meet Demand as Big Acts Seek Larger Venues

Narrow loss to JackJumpers

In the first game of this week’s double-header, the Bullets showed resilience but ultimately fell short in a tight 95-92 contest against the Tasmania JackJumpers. Despite mounting a spirited fourth-quarter comeback, Brisbane couldn’t cap off the turnaround.

Guard Keandre Cook led the charge with an impressive 23-point performance, while Josh Bannan contributed a near double-double with 15 points and 9 rebounds, along with 4 assists.

Bullets vs Wildcats

Looking to bounce back from Thursday’s narrow defeat, the Bullets face a crucial test against the Perth Wildcats. The matchup comes at a transformative moment for the franchise, following the announcement that GameAbove Sports has acquired a meaningful ownership stake in the Brisbane team.

NBA Hall of Famer George “The Iceman” Gervin headlines the ownership group, bringing his legendary basketball expertise to the organisation.

Brisbane Bullets CEO Malcolm Watts emphasises the significance of this partnership: “George, a Hall of Famer and one of the best shooting guards in NBA history, validates that we are building something special on the basketball side here in Brisbane.”

The move positions the Bullets for growth as Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympics, with GameAbove Sports founder and chairman Keith J. Stone highlighting the strategic timing: “The NBL has seen tremendous growth and international recognition, and we believe in the potential of this franchise as a key player in the future of basketball.”

“Basketball has always been my passion, and to be part of a franchise like the Brisbane Bullets is an incredible opportunity,” Gervin states.

Read: Trailer Strikes Power Lines Causing Major Commute Disruptions

Following Sunday’s clash, the team enters a demanding stretch of the season, with one away game next week before transitioning into eight straight weeks of double-headers.