Home

Commonwealth Games: Australia goes from 10-6 down to claiming bronze in Women’s 3x3 Basketball

Headshot of Carly Laden
Carly LadenThe West Australian
Australia has taken bronze in the 3x3 basketball.
Camera IconAustralia has taken bronze in the 3x3 basketball. Credit: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

Australia have pulled off an amazing comeback from 10-6 down to secure the bronze medal over New Zealand in Women’s 3x3 Basketball.

After managing convincing wins throughout the group stage but falling short to England in the semi-finals, it was all on the line in the epic bronze medal match between the fierce rivals.

Despite a fairly even start, New Zealand managed to build themselves a break with Jillian Harmon scoring six points.

With Australia trailing 10-6 in the dying minutes of the match, it was now or never.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - AUGUST 02: Marena Whittle #21 of Team Australia shoots the ball against Team New Zealand during the Women's 3x3 Basketball Bronze Medal match on day five of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games at Smithfield on August 02, 2022 on the Birmingham, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Camera IconBIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - AUGUST 02: Marena Whittle #21 of Team Australia shoots the ball against Team New Zealand during the Women's 3x3 Basketball Bronze Medal match on day five of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games at Smithfield on August 02, 2022 on the Birmingham, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) Credit: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images

As WA’s Lauren Scherf put the pressure on, Marena Whittle led the offensive charge with just over three minutes left, scoring nine points, including a two-point shot, to help Australia bring the scores level.

The Game AFL 2024

Despite a strong defensive effort by New Zealand, a late team foul helped seal the deal for Australia, going on to take the bronze medal 15-13 in an emotional ending to the campaign.

While Whittle was the highest scorer for the match, Scherf provided strength in defence, finishing with a game-high five defensive rebounds.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails