Why Chloe Hodges deserves a WNBL opportunity right now

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NBL1 Central Unleashed breaks down a massive opening week of the 2026 finals series, debates the season's biggest award controversies, launches a campaign to get Chloe Hodges into the WNBL, interviews Chloe and Coco Hodges, and previews four huge semi-finals with grand final spots on the line.

🎧 Listen Below

Biggest Talking Points

1. "South Adelaide Panthers proved us wrong"

• Burf and Caldy admit they completely underestimated the Panthers women.
• They discuss how South has exceeded expectations all season after predicting they would finish seventh.
• They debate whether South can shock Norwood this weekend.

2. "Woodville's season ends in disappointment"

• Strong criticism of the Woodville Warriors men's season.
• Discussion around why they haven't won back-to-back games since Anzac Day.
• Debate about whether the current core needs to change.

3. "Is Chloe Hodges being overlooked by the WNBL?"

• Passionate campaign arguing Defensive Player of the Year Chloe Hodges deserves a WNBL contract.
• Hosts describe it as "mind-blowing" she's not on a roster.
• Compare her impact to Tayla Brazel.

4. Exclusive interview: Chloe & Coco Hodges
The West Adelaide stars discuss:

• Why the Bearcats have become the league's dominant team.
• Winning major awards.
• Defensive identity.
• Coco's Adelaide Lightning signing.
• Finals preparation.
• Facing Sturt this weekend.

5. Awards controversy
Several heated debates:

• Greg Mays missing the All-Star Five.
• Lloyd McVeigh missing the top Defensive Player voting.
• Coaches MVP voting.
• Woollacott Medal discussion.

🎙 What To Expect 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.