Bendigo Braves Women Hold Off Kilsyth Cobras in NWBL1 South Showdown

The Bendigo Braves Women earned a hard-fought 89–80 victory over the Kilsyth Cobras Women in a National Women’s Basketball League (NWBL1) South contest on June 14, 2026. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the Braves used a strong third-quarter run to seize control and never looked back.

Match Summary

Bendigo started the game with high intensity, establishing a 10-point lead early in the second quarter. Kilsyth fought back behind their veteran guards, cutting the deficit to 45–42 at halftime. The Braves reasserted themselves after the break, outscoring the Cobras 27–18 in the third quarter to build a comfortable cushion. Kilsyth made a late push in the final period, but Bendigo’s composure at the free-throw line ensured the 89–80 final score.

Key Sequences

• Fast start: Bendigo opened with a 14–5 run, capitalizing on transition opportunities and offensive rebounds.
• Cobras fight back: Kilsyth closed the second quarter with a 13–4 spurt, led by their point guard’s playmaking.
• Braves take over: The home team’s forwards dominated the third quarter, scoring 14 combined points in the paint.
• Late drama: Kilsyth trimmed the lead to 83–78 with two minutes remaining, but Bendigo’s backcourt duo hit four consecutive free throws to ice the game.

Player Highlights

Bendigo Braves: The Braves’ star forward recorded a game-high 28 points and 10 rebounds, dominating both ends of the floor. The starting shooting guard added 18 points and six assists, while the center chipped in with 12 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double.

Kilsyth Cobras: The Cobras were led by their point guard, who finished with 22 points and eight assists. The power forward posted 16 points and nine rebounds, but the team struggled to contain Bendigo’s inside scoring.

Standings Context

With the win, Bendigo improves to 8–3 on the season, solidifying their position near the top of the NWBL1 South ladder. Kilsyth falls to 5–6, but remains in playoff contention heading into the second half of the campaign.

The Braves will travel to face the Waverley Falcons next round, while the Cobras prepare for a home matchup against the Geelong Supercats Women.