The focus was simple for the Craigieburn Eagles in the Big V women’s division 1 season.
Coming off a strong season last year, which was hindered by injuries, the Eagles again put together a really good unit.
The side has proven to be the team to beat, with just two losses for the season.
Captain Briana Gray said they didn’t try to complicate things coming into the season.
“We had pre-season meetings about our goals and what was important,” she said.
“We wanted to hone in on everyone’s why?
“In the chat, a lot of girls were disheartened at other clubs. This season became about enjoying the game again, enjoying the process and having fun.
“It was about finding that love of basketball again and it was the focal point.”
Fun it has been for the Eagles, who have been able to put the results on the board.
Gray, who joined the club last season, said they had put a lot of good things in place last season and they were building on that this year.
“I think we have a good mix of people and it’s a good organisation,” she said.
“We’re having so much fun together and enjoying the process.
“We are a mix of half returnees and half new and the culture is at a good level. Good things are growing and it has been really cool to watch that.”
The American said the decision to return to the Eagles for a second season was an easy one.
She felt that it was the right place for her with where she is in her career.
“Melbourne at this point is my second home,” she said. “I’ve been here five seasons and I’m really enjoying it.
“I have a friend network here, not just basketball friends.”
“Tobi [Swinley] and I had some really good chats… The community, board and team has allowed me to be myself.”
Gray said the focus for the group was to play good quality basketball in the back part of the season.
The group suffered its second loss of the season to the Camberwell Dragons on Saturday night, 81-74.
Gray top scored with 30 points.
They were able to bounce back with a 61-50 win on Sunday against Western Port.
The Eagles had just seven players in that match but fought strong. Gray was again top scorer, this time with 20 points.
The side remains on top of the ladder.
Gray said they wanted to continue to do the small things right.
“I was having a meeting with our coach, and the big thing was doing the right things and taking it week by week and not getting ahead of ourselves,” she said.
“It’s about playing good quality basketball and the results take care of itself. We have to keep getting better every week.
“Hitting our KPIs is the biggest factor in getting the wins.”
