Magic Clinch Finals Berth

Added 21 July 2008

BigV Basketball action was down at Boroondara for the final time in the regular season of 2008. The Hawthorn Magic men played host to the Bulleen Boomers in a matchup with massive implications on finals positions. In recent weeks, the Magic have made their customary late season charge and this culminated in a big win over the Sunbury Jets at home last Sunday afternoon, firming up their spot in the top 6.

Bulleen showed their intent early and established their dominance in the first half. Dribble penetration by Nathan Truman and Leon Kennett was at the forefront of Bulleen's offence. Matt Slaven single handedly kept the Magic in the game with hard work and determination under the basket. Bulleen took a 51-43 half time lead and it looked grim for Hawthorn.

Knowing a win would all but secure a finals berth for the Magic, the backcourt combination of Jay Allen and Chris Bellesini got the Magic going on offence with a flurry of 3 point bombs. The Magic erased the half time deficit with a stirring 32-14 third quarter effort and in the process breaking Boomer hearts and taking the game by the scruff of it's neck. Hawthorn up 75-65 at the final break.

The final quarter saw the Magic close out the game strongly, eventually winning 101-83. All of the Magic starting 5 finished the game in double figures with Slaven (25 points, 16 rebounds) and Allen (23 points, 6 assists) leading the way.

The Magic men backed up their win on Saturday night with a huge 110-98 road victory over Southern Peninsula on Sunday afternoon. Jeremy Caust and Slaven led the way with 22 and 20 apiece. The win looks to have secured the Magic a home final on August 2nd at BSC.

Meanwhile, the Magic women were on the road in Traralgon. Despite 12 points each from Emily Matheson and Anna DeAraugo, the Magic went down to LaTrobe City 62-47.

In the final round of the regular season, both Magic teams are on the road with the women making the long trip west to Warrnambool and the men looking to ensure that home final is set in stone with a win in Geelong.

Thanks to Cath Lowe and friends for the photos from Saturday night's game.

Stay turned to www.hawthornbasketball.com.au for news from Warrnambool and Geelong and for confirmation of match times for the finals!

In the meantime, "Join In The Chorus" and watch the Magic boys sing the song after their win over Bulleen. Hopefully this becomes a regular occurance over the next few weeks in the post season!

Join in the Chorus in the Media Section
Magic do the Sunbury Double at Home
Jazzy Jay Lights Up BSC
Magic Commence Customary Late Season Run
Magic Profiles: Meet Our BigV Magic Players
Em's Blog: What A Weekend Off Can Do
Jazzy's Blog: Season on the Brink
2008 BigV Season Photos in the Gallery