The undefeated women’s team, coach by Kerrianne Allan endured their toughest game of the season, defeating the Blaze 73-68 in overtime.

At the end of regualtion, scores were locked at 65-all, thanks to a last second bucket by Wagga’s Jordan Barrett.

“We started off quite well – we played really good defence and our shooting was on,” Tigers captain Patterson said.

“We made sure we got through our offence like we had spoken about and got the ball moving up and down the court quite quickly, to make it our style of game. 

“The first half was definitely a lot better than the second half, where we became quite complacent and we didn't have the aggression we had in the first half. 

“We changed from what we started and took the wrong options but that happens sometimes. 

“We just need to make sure when it comes to our last few games and finals we play the entire game the way we start not just half.”

But the Tigers dominated the extra period, thanks largely to the scoring of their three guards – Kate Bellamy, Kate Denyer and Olivia Patterson, who ended the match with 25, 24 and 17 points respectively. 

“As a team we did really well – we stayed calm and played as a team,” Patterson said.

“We knew that we had the ability and confidence in ourselves that we could do it we just had to be patient – five minutes is a long time in basketball.

“Everyone did their job really well and that's ultimately why I think we continue to finish with the win each week.”

Heading into the long weekend, the Tigers sit on top of the ladder, having won all eight of their matches this season.

“It's definitely been a great start having the wins there but that doesn't reflect to much of our opponents,” Patterson said.

“We have been pushed a fair few games and only just come out on top - potentially there have been games where it should not of been that close at the end but it shows that we have to play the entire game and not become complacent.

“As a team though, we have gelled really well this year and we all get along so well and everyone brings something different to the court – none of us are the same, so it's great.

“We have four more games to play before finals start and it would be great to continue undefeated but we are going to have to work for that.

“Round games are just the start, finals is where we need to make sure we get the wins.”

Following this victory on Saturday, Ian Ozolins men’s team rebounded from two straight losses to defeat the Heat 102-77.

The victory was set up by Alex Brown’s game-high 31 points, while Tom and William Ozolins contributed 24 and 23 points respectively. 

“We started the game extremely well, shooting the ball with efficiency and finding the open man and right shot on offer,” Ozolins said.

“The shooting allowed us to get back into our natural game of getting up and down the court – seeing us stretch the margin to 14 at the first break.

“We were then able to go on with it, with five guys managing to score double figures.

“Every time we have a balanced attack and more than five guys reach double figure points we win, so it shows the importance of sharing the ball.”

Only eight players made the road trip to Wagga Wagga, with all of Ozolins’ troops contributing in their own way.

“Team captain Ben Morris had his best game of the season, scoring 10 points which included a number of crucial tip-ins,” Ozolins said.

“I also thought every helped in the rebounding department, which has been one of our weaknesses in previous games.

“We also did a good job containing their scorers, including their import, who only scored 26.”

Both teams will now enjoy the weekend off before a double-header at the Tigers Den on Saturday, June 17.

The women will host Goulburn from 5pm before the men take on Dubbo from 7pm.