In 2023, Geelong United Basketball was represented in the Victorian Junior Basketball League competition by 45 teams.
Last Friday night marked grand finals for our under-12 (1) and under-16 (1) boys.
UNDER-16 BOYS
16B1 – VC Reserve (2nd) – Runner-up
A second-half fightback has fallen just short for Sam Buckby’s team. Following an even first quarter, the 16 Ones found themselves in a 16-point hole at halftime after being outscored 18-4 in the second period by Keilor. GU pulled the margin back to 11 points at three-quarter time and again outscored the Thunder in the final period. However, the Ones ran out of time, suffering a 59-54 loss. Big man Phil Wickham led the scoring for GU with 19, with Hugh Buckby contributing 13.
UNDER-12 BOYS
12B1 – VC Reserve (4th) – Runner-up
The 12 Ones’ bid for championship success ended in disappointment after suffering a 61-43 loss to Waverley. Marty De Lange’s team were outscored in three of the four quarters, with a 19-9 final period from the Falcons putting paid to GU’s hopes. Henry Wilson stood out for the Ones as he poured in 17 points. Lincoln De Lange (7 points) and Mason De Stefano (6) also battled hard offensively.
