The Whittlesea Pacers are taking the positives out of the Big V women’s division 1 season despite falling short of a grand final.
The Pacers finished the regular season in second spot, but weren’t able to find that same form in the finals.
After losing to the Craigieburn Eagles in the second week of finals, the Pacers had a second shot at making the grand final on Saturday night.
Facing the Western Port Steelers, the Pacers struggled to get going.
The Steelers led by four points at quarter time and it was the same margin at half time.
A 19-12 third quarter opened the lead up into double figures.
While the Pacers won the final quarter, it wasn’t enough as they lost 69-61.
Pacers coach Shannon Bodley said they were beaten by the better team on the night.
“Nott the result we wanted but credit to Westernport they played well,” he said.
“We just never got our groove on.
“The biggest thing we take out of the season is we know we are one of the best teams in the league and we were able to beat every team.
“There’s good signs for next season.”
Isabella Ryan top scored with 11 points for the Pacers on Saturday night.
While disappointed not to have made the grand final, Bodley said for this group it was more than that this season.
It’s the first time the Pacers have had a women’s side in a number of seasons.
“Obviously the grand final is the goal every season, but to put a team together this year, players who have never played together before and new coaching structures I think we have achieved plenty,” he said.
“There wouldn’t be too many teams in any sport that could do what we did.
“We’ve very happy Whittlesea Pacers women’s basketball is in a great spot.”
Bodley said they were looking for stability heading into next season.
He said consistency, promotion of youth players and some recruitment is the focus heading into 2026.
