Basketball powerhouse Unity lose both matches on Day 5 of the National Championships

Story contributed by reader Ian Chew

Unity’s #4 (in yellow) gets fouled on her lay up. But her efforts were not enough as SCGS triumphed with an easy 48-30 scoreline. (Photo © Ian Chew)

Singapore Basketball Centre, Thursday, March 27, 2008 – Singapore Chinese Girls’ School scored a massive 48-30 win over their Unity Secondary counterparts to completely throw open Group D in the first round of the National Girls’ Basketball Championship.

It was also surprising, considering Unity had come into the match as West Zone champions, while SCGS were fighting for their lives after losing their first national round match to Bedok North Secondary.

But there was nothing surprising in the manner of SCGS’ win as they established an early 16-9 first quarter lead and extended their lead throughout the game. They were also certainly helped by a poor shooting display from the Unity forwards and took full advantage with numerous fast break conversions off Unity’s misses.

Bedok North, on the other hand, put themselves in prime position to qualify for the quarter-finals with a 48-33 win over Yishun Town Secondary in the other Group D girls’ match. They now lead their group with 2 wins out of 2 matches played.

Over in boys’ Group D action, Seng Kang Secondary cruised to a 65-44 win over Dunman High. With Unity also losing narrowly to Catholic High 55-63, this means that both Catholic High and Seng Kang have qualified for the quarter-finals with a match to spare. Next tuesday’s match between the two team will determine first and second placing for the group.

SCGS (in white), with a smarter fast break strategy, won their game against the West Zone champions despite only coming in third in the South Zone. They do however boast of two players in the Combined Schools shortlist – Sarah Cheong and Sara Choong. (Photo © Ian Chew)