A RED-HOT offensive performance from Owen Foxwell has catapulted the Eltham Wildcats into the National Basketball League (NBL)1 South Men’s preliminary final after defeating the Mt Gambier Pioneers by nine points.

The Pioneers secured a double-chance, but were defeated by the Sandringham Sabres in the qualifying finals. On the other hand, the Wildcats had snuck past Geelong United by five points in an elimination final and kept their season alive, although entered this clash as underdogs given how well Mt Gambier had performed throughout the regular season.

The Wildcats managed to silence the crowd at Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre on Saturday night with an impressive opening term, taking a six-point lead into the first change. Although the Pioneers made some adjustments, Eltham held firm to lead by seven at half time. Mt Gambier made some adjustments to its offence at half time and cut the deficit to five heading into the final term, but the Wildcats fired again in the last 10 minutes to claim a 91-82 win.

Foxwell was the catalyst for the upset win with a tremendous scoring performance on the road, producing his best showing of the season in the most important clash.

Mt Gambier Pioneers (82) def. by Eltham Wildcats (91)

Owen Foxwell – 35 points, four rebounds, five assists, one steal

Standing up on the big stage, Foxwell was a match-winning presence for the Wildcats with his consistent ability to conjure scores for Eltham.

He posted an equal game-high 35 points (matched by Pioneer Nick Marshall), accounting for over a third of his team’s total score in a heroic individual performance from the 20-year-old guard.

From the field, the youngster shot 10/23, putting his side on his back and leading from the front with no fear when looking to shoot the ball. Foxwell was ferocious when attacking the basket, and although not all of his drives were successful, he was putting plenty of pressure on the rim.

He also showed his range with four triples on seven attempts, stretching the floor and showing plenty of confidence in his own shooting form. Foxwell did his best work at the charity stripe, getting reward for effort after drawing contact and earning a whistle. From the free throw line, he shot 11/13, making the defence pay for some sloppy work when guarding him.

Foxwell certainly deserved to keep his team’s season alive with a career-best performance, and will be a key figure as the Wildcats take on the Frankston Blues this weekend.