NBL1 West 2023: Despite being able to develop teenage talent, another season of struggle

The 2023 NBL1 West women’s season was challenging for the South West Slammers women’s team, which finished winless for the third time in four seasons. It was always going to a tough ask for Alex Ciabattoni’s side, who entered the season without any imports due to financial constraints. The teenager-filled team routinely were required to go up against more experienced opposition — many of the players with WNBL and even international representative experience. There were some positives amid the gloom however. Slammers youngster Alexis Donovan caught the eye of several rival coaches due to her athleticism and shooting, while point guards Bree Chalk and Kate Williams routinely carried the offence throughout tough circumstances. Many of the players will now turn their focus to the Bunbury Senior Basketball League, which begins in October and runs over summer. 2023 season statistics Points scored: 1040 Points conceded: 2022 Overall offence: 359/1231 (29 per cent) Field goals: 256/741 (34.5 per cent) Three-point attempts: 103/490 (21 per cent) Rebounds: 763 Assists: 230 Steals: 166 Turnovers: 538 Fouls: 389