NEW import Asia Avinger delivered a standout debut performance for the Mildura Heat’s women, but it wasn’t enough to stop an in-form Western Port Steelers outfit storm to a 73-58 win at the Hothouse on Saturday night.
Avinger, who only arrived from the United States earlier in the week, was a clear bright spark for the Heat.
The explosive guard led the night’s scoring with 24 points, drew a plethora of fouls, and created several fast breaks, proving her ability to inject pace into a team still searching for rhythm.
“She only landed Tuesday and has been jet-lagged out of her mind, but you could definitely see her class,” said Heat coach James Madigan.
“Asia’s going to be a big part of our group as she’s a quality player, but more importantly, she’s a quality person and already a great teammate.”
Despite the American’s individual brilliance, the Heat were left to chase the game after a sluggish start.
Western Port dominated the opening segment with fierce defensive pressure and consistent shooting from outside the arc, racing to a 28-10 lead after the first quarter.
“We shot poorly, we let them shoot well and that comes down to a lack of pressure,” said Madigan.
“Our preparation was tough this week as trying to bed in a new player and adjust on the fly made it hard, and it showed early on.”
The second quarter saw a fightback led by Avinger and captain Tracey Sherlock, who both controlled the tempo with creative ball movement. Avinger continued to attack the basket, drawing contact and converting from the line.
Sherlock managed to score 10 points alongside teammate Ashleigh Morello, helping the Heat trim the deficit to just five points at one stage.
However, Western Port regained their composure before the break, stretching the lead to 12 by halftime and never relinquishing control of the match.
Mildura’s shooting struggles persisted, hitting just 27% from the field, while the steelers capitalised on 16 Heat turnovers and scoring 24 points in the paint.
“Our shooting was horrific tonight and we didn’t apply enough ball pressure,” said Madigan.
“We’re in a bit of a reset period, learning as we go but there were still positives.”
“We just need more consistency.”
The result keeps the Heat women on one win for the season so far, but Madigan is focused on what lies ahead.
“It doesn’t change anything, we were bottom before tonight,” he said.
“But with a couple of home games coming up, and Asia getting more reps with the team, we’ll get better. I’ve got no doubt about that.”
Mildura takes on 5th place Whittlesea next Saturday at the Hothouse in an attempt to rejuvenate their season.
