Rollers Experience Highs and Lows to Conclude the Preliminary Round

The Australian Rollers have experienced a mixed finish to the preliminary round of the Rio 2016 wheelchair basketball competition, with a convincing win over Japan following a disappointing loss to Spain.

Western Australia’s Brad Ness, Shaun Norris and Adam Deans, along with their Rollers teammates, were under pressure heading into their game against Spain, given only 16 hours between games to recover.

The Rollers were able to start the game strong, with their defensive pressure forcing Spain to consistently shoot from mid to long range. 

Despite an effective start, by the end of the game the defensive pressure was seen as an area of concern as Spain achieved 52% shooting statistics from within the three-point line. 

Another identified area of fault for Australia was their rebounding, giving up 15 offensive rebounds throughout the game.

Like in previous games WA’s Shaun Norris was a power house in attack, adding 17 points to the scoreboard for Australia.

Brad Ness also made a good contribution, netting two goals to total four points.

Their game against Spain concluded with Australia going down by eleven points, 64 to 75.

With no time to dwell on the past, the Rollers had clearly identified the major areas for improvement when taking the court against Japan.

The team took the reigns right from the first whistle, a success which was attributed to their defensive pressure. 

Unlike Spain the day before, Japan were kept to 37% accuracy with their top goal scorer obtaining a mere nine points.

The Rollers concluded the game with 52% shooting stats, with little reliance on three-pointers to build their tally.

Western Australia’s athletes came out firing against Japan earning themselves some impressive statistics.

Shaun Norris was Australia’s top goal scorer netting 19 points for his side.

Along with this he also grabbed six rebounds and executed seven assists.

Captain Brad Ness had an excellent game, proving unstoppable in scoring 12 points within eight minutes.

Adam Deans was no passenger against Japan offering his fair share for the team, scoring five points and taking two rebounds.

Australia’s 68 to 55 win against Japan secures them a spot in the quarter-finals which are set to take place on Paralympic day seven.