SBL 2020: West Coast Classic an opportunity for lesser lights to shine, says Geraldton Buccaneers coach Dayle Joseph

Early games in the “Clayton’s” defence of the Geraldton Buccaneers’ 2019 SBL championship will be played in Perth. With the local basketball HQ being given a major facelift, the Buccs have asked for away contests at the start of the “fill-in” competition. And the unfurling of the pennant the Buccs won at WA domestic basketball headquarters on the last day of last August is on hold until next season. A 10-match competition — known as the West Coast Classic — begins on the last weekend in July. It replaces the 2020 SBL season, cancelled because of COVID-19. The top four teams will compete in standalone semifinals, with the grand finals across the September 25 weekend. WCC is an amateur competition, and Buccs boss Dayle Joseph sees it as an ideal opportunity for “lesser lights” to step up. “Some teams will be really strong, some really weak, and others like us . . . in the middle,” Joseph said. “It’s a big chance for fellas who don’t play a lot to step up.” The player Joseph has the biggest hopes for is Johnny Narkle. “I don’t think he (Johnny) realises how far he could go in the game. In saying that, I also don’t think he realises how hard you have to work to get there,” Joseph said. “There will be some spots. “Youngster Aidan Gardiner is leaving for America at some stage, while Josh Hunt is moving to Mandurah. “We have gained Jordie Murray, who has moved here. He’s played in the SBL, including with Redbacks in a championship year.” SBL general manager Adam Bowler said the WCC would offer development opportunities for athletes, coaches and officials — while supporting their mental and physical health. “This support ensures our regional clubs who have competed in the SBL for more than 30 years can continue to be involved,” Bowler said.