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The latest NBL1 Central Unleashed episode dives into the Easter round, identifying early contenders, emerging trends, and warning signs across the men’s and women’s competitions.

With Round 3 approaching, the discussion centred on a competition still taking shape — but already revealing clear patterns in performance, depth, and identity.

🎧 Listen Below

West Adelaide sets the early standard

The biggest talking point: West Adelaide’s dominance in the women’s competition.

The Bearcats’ ball movement and depth stood out, highlighted by 33 assists from 36 made field goals in a statement win. Five players scored in double figures, while their rebounding (+21) and scoring efficiency reinforced their early status as the team to beat.

Even more significant — their full roster isn’t yet available.

The takeaway is clear:
West Adelaide isn’t just winning — they’re controlling games.

Eastern Mavericks shift expectations

The Eastern Mavericks have quickly become one of the most intriguing teams in the competition.

After entering the season with uncertainty around their imports, the impact has been immediate:

• Greater scoring balance
• Reduced reliance on top-heavy production
• Improved composure in key moments

Antigoni Sanabria’s all-around performance — 27 points, six rebounds and six assists — was highlighted as a benchmark game.

The Mavericks are no longer a bottom-tier projection.
They’re now a legitimate factor in the race.

Sturt’s defence emerging as elite

Sturt’s identity is already taking shape — and it starts on the defensive end.

Holding Central Districts to:

• 17% shooting
• 38 total points

…while forcing 26 turnovers, reinforced their ability to control games without relying solely on scoring.

The Sabres’ ability to adjust offensively — improving from a poor Round 1 shooting display — adds another layer to their profile.

Early warning signs for contenders

Not every team is trending upward.

Several concerns emerged across the round:

North Adelaide

• Lost first quarters 57–15 across two games
• Consistently playing from behind

Southern Tigers (Men)

• Shot 6-from-38 from three (15%)
• Missed 13 free throws
• Limited ball movement (seven assists)

Central Districts

• 26 turnovers vs seven assists
• No player reached double figures

The early-season message:
Execution and readiness are already separating teams.

Forestville and South Adelaide trends to watch

Forestville remains a benchmark team — particularly in the men’s competition — but defensive consistency has dipped compared to last season.

Meanwhile, South Adelaide’s structural challenges were exposed:

• 64 points conceded in the paint
• Limited shot volume for key scorer Jeremy Smith

Both teams remain competitive, but adjustments will be critical.

Player of the round standouts

Women — Antigoni Sanabria (Eastern Mavericks)

27 points │ 6 rebounds │ 6 assists │ ~65% FG
Controlled tempo and closed out the game.

Men — Thomas Korelsky (Norwood Flames)

32 points │ 12 rebounds │ 6 assists │ 5 steals │ 66% FG
High-efficiency, all-around performance leading a bounce-back win.

Big picture: What we’ve learned so far

Through two rounds, several trends are already shaping the season:

• Depth is outperforming star-reliant teams
• Imports are redefining team ceilings
• Defensive identity remains the separator
• Slow starts are proving costly

And importantly — with multiple teams still awaiting key players — the competition is far from settled.

Listen now

The full episode of NBL1 Central Unleashed breaks down every game, key performances, and tips for the Easter round.

From West Adelaide’s dominance to the Mavericks’ rise, it’s the clearest snapshot yet of where the 2026 season is heading.

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🎙 What To Expect from Unleashed This Season

NBL1 Central Unleashed will continue to deliver:

• Weekly ladder predictions
• Insider roster discussion
• Player interviews
• Honest assessments (even when uncomfortable)
• The best analysis in the league

If you follow NBL1 Central closely, this is your weekly must-listen.

🎧 Tune in above and stay across all NBL1 Central coverage at basketball.com.au

About NBL1 Central Unleashed Hosts

Chris “Caldi” Caldicott is a long-time basketball lifer and co-host of NBL1 Central Unleashed. Having been involved in South Australian club basketball since 1993 and previously serving as an assistant coach in NBL1 Central, Caldi brings decades of experience and strong relationships throughout the league. His insider perspective helps the podcast deliver fast-paced conversations, behind-the-scenes insight, and relatable stories about the players, coaches, and clubs that make NBL1 Central one of Australia’s most passionate basketball communities.

Jake “Burf” Burfitt is the co-host of NBL1 Central Unleashed and one of the lead play-by-play commentators for the NBL1 Central league in South Australia. Having represented the state as a commentator at the NBL1 National Finals, Burf brings a professional broadcasting perspective and deep understanding of the game. With strong connections across all 10 clubs in the league, he delivers accurate insight and informed analysis on the players, teams, and storylines shaping the competition. Known for his calm, factual approach, Burf provides the perfect balance to co-host Caldi’s explosive energy, helping drive thoughtful and engaging basketball conversations each episode.