07/11/2024
Saturday’s game sees the repeat of last week’s KitKing Trophy Semi Final as Hemel Storm host the MK Breakers in a highly-anticipated affair. After a 100-88 defeat for Storm, they will look to bounce back immediately and protect their home court.
Last week’s game saw the Breakers dominate in front of their home crowd. Their ability to execute their plays, as well as crafting scoring runs to turn the game in their favour earned the team from Milton Keynes a deserved victory. Exceptional performances from KJ Johnson and Nate Robinson proved decisive, which Storm will look to prevent a repetition of that performance.
The visitors lineup with a strong roster, with both BBL and NBL experience within their starters and bench. However, new signing KJ Johnson will be high on Storm’s radar, as he looks to continue his heroics into this weekend. Johnson proved to be a tough player to handle, with his aggressive drive to the basket and ability to initiate contact. This was evident as he attempted 18 free throws, scoring 13 of them. Another threat will be former Manchester Giant Nate Robinson, who was a threat both inside and outside the three point arc. His unpredictability will look to leave the Storm defence with decisions to make when guarding him. With a balance of experience and upcoming talent, Breakers roster contains threats from the bench, with NBL stalwart and former Storm player Blayne Freckleton and former London Lion Chris Tawiah, who is a threat inside the paint. Overall, the Breakers will be hungry to win away, following 2 unsuccessful attempts in the last two seasons, when competing in NBL Divisions 2 and 3.
Last weekend saw the return of Veron Eze from injury, as he proved a threat off the bench for Storm. His 22 points made him Storm’s top scorer within the game, showcasing his energy and athleticism when driving to the basket. As well as Eze, Tra’michael Moton will look to continue from his last two games, having scored 31 against Loughborough and 20 away at Milton Keynes. He will look to continue to be consistent from outside the arc, as well as his ability to facilitate the play. Overall, Storm will look to be more aggressive on rebounds and reduce mistakes, with the Breakers punishing them last week. However, they will be backed by a vocal home support, after creating a fantastic atmosphere last weekend.
It is sure to be a fantastic battle between the two teams, with Storm looking to continue their unbeaten start to the league season. However, facing a Breakers side who will be full of confidence following their victory last week will make for a great game. It will be a fantastic atmosphere, with a busy StormDome anticipated. Make sure to avoid disappointment by securing your tickets on Fanbase.
Written by Ollie Heathcote