In a classic rivalry game, the Ballarat Miners have come out on top of the Bendigo Braves in round two of NBL1 at the Minerdome 94-86.
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Combo-guard Kuany Kuany talked about the importance of getting a win in front of the home crowd.
"It's a great feeling man," he said.
"I've heard a lot of things about the crowd here and it was great seeing a packed house for our first game. I thought it was very important to show them what they can expect for the rest of the year and start off with a win."
The game was played at a frenetic pace which favoured Ballarat's youth and athleticism early, opening up a 15 point lead at the first break.
Bendigo was able to claw their way back into the contest following some star showings from point guard Deonte Burton and captain Ray Turner (30 and 21 points respectively).
Ballarat were able to hold on to their lead thanks to the steady production of guard pairing Sam Short and Kuany who combined for 45 points.
Jerry Evans Jr once again posted big scoring numbers off the bench, registering 22 points and five rebounds in just 23 minutes.
Short spoke about how having multiple contributors on offence helps them get positive results.
"I think it's great having not just one contributor - the way we've been able to build that chemistry with only having a handful of trainings together it's great."
Short is confident the team will only will become harder to guard once import Marqueze Coleman missed the game due to a hamstring injury is able to get on the court.
"Marqueze is still around us and training with us so as soon as he's fit I think he'll slot in really well."
Ballarat will now begin a five-game round trip starting next week when they travel to Dandenong for a game against the Rangers at 7pm on Saturday.
Dandenong finished round two with a pair of wins against the Southern Sabres (90-83) and Diamond Valley Eagles (81-76).
Forward Sam Froling was dangerous in both games, tallying 41 points and 21 rebounds over the weekend.
DETAILS
MINERS V BRAVES.
BALLARAT: 30, 17, 23, 24 - 94 def. BENDIGO: 15, 31, 21, 21 - 86
POINTS - Miners: Short 24 (4 three-pointers), Evans Jr 22 (3), Kuany 21 (2), Fisher 10 (3), Acouth 10, Fox 5 (1), Lingard 2. Bendigo: Burton 30 (3), Turner 21, Hogan 13 (3), Andronicos 7, Johnston 6 (2), Daniels 6 (1), Hanson 3 (1).
REBOUNDS: Miners 33 Braves 31
ASSISTS: Miners 13 Braves 18
STEALS: Miners 8 Braves 8
TURNOVERS: Miners 14 Braves 15
FOULS: Miners 19 Braves 17
