Geraldton Buccaneers get back to business with 25-point win against Willetton Tigers

The Geraldton Buccaneers returned to their winning ways following last weekend’s loss — their first of the season — with a 25-point victory over the Willetton Tigers at Activewest Stadium on Saturday night.

The Buccs were keen to reassert their dominance on the NBL1 against a Willetton side looking to jump into the top eight.

They were on a mission from the outset, scoring nine straight points during the opening term to lead by as much as 15, and be up 32-20 by quarter-time.

The Buccaneers didn’t let up, extending that advantage to 23 points during the second quarter to go into the half-time break in control.

However, Willetton hit back during the third quarter scoring 17 unanswered points to send a real scare into the league-leaders.

The Buccs managed to get back on the board but their lead was cut to nine points heading into the final term.

Any nerves were quelled with a 28-point to 12 fourth term, with the Buccs getting home 102-77.

The win keeps the Buccs’ on top of the NBL1-West ladder with an 11-1 record, while Willetton remains outside the top eight at 6-6.

Cameron Coleman was outstanding for Geraldton finishing the evening with 28 points, five rebounds, three steals and two assists on shooting 10/16 from the floor and 7/8 from the free-throw line.

Mathiang Muo added 18 points, nine rebounds and six steals, Malik Meunier 17 points and five assists, while Shaun Stewart scored 17 points, four boards and three assists.

Perth Wildcats development player Oliver Hayes-Brown delivered 21 points and 10 rebounds for Willetton.

The Buccs will next play the ninth-placed Perth Redbacks at Activewest Stadium on Saturday night.

Meanwhile the Buccs’ WABL Championship Men’s side lost by 31 points to the Tigers.

The 98-67 result leaves the Buccs seventh on the ladder with four wins and four losses.