THE NBL1 often has some of the nation’s biggest basketball names showcasing their craft in state competitions, and the Central Men’s competition saw a magnificent display from Mitch McCarron.

The veteran guard was at his best at the ARC in Campbelltown on Friday night, as he led the West Adelaide Bearcats to a 94-80 win over the Norwood Flames, their first win of the 2023 season.

While it was far from a one-sided affair, the Bearcats edged ahead in the opening term, and despite Norwood’s best efforts, it could not draw even as the deficit gradually grew. Heading into the final quarter, the Flames trailed by double-digits, and while the last term was the best they looked, they were no match for the work done by West Adelaide in the remainder of the match.

McCarron was easily the standout performer of the match, showcasing why he sees plenty of action at international level with yet another magnificent all-around showing.

Norwood Flames (80) def. by West Adelaide Bearcats (94)

Mitch McCarron – 20 points, eight rebounds, 10 assists, seven steals, three blocks

McCarron produced a typically impressive outing in all facets of the game, continuing to perform at an impeccably high level, and the Bearcats were able to reap the rewards of this.

He combined well with fellow Adelaide 36er Anthony Drmic on the scoring front, with McCarron’s 20 points just two behind his teammate. He shot 50 per cent from the field, nailing eight shots on 16 attempts and always looking dangerous with ball-in-hand.

McCarron balanced out his shot attempts, draining half of his shots from both inside and outside the arc. A trio of three-pointers were vital in West Adelaide getting over the line, as the veteran guard showed composure when lining up from downtown. Ironically, McCarron’s biggest struggles came from the charity stripe, hitting just one of his shots from the free throw line on four attempts.

Despite not being close to the tallest player on the court, he was one of the game’s best rebounders, often hunting down the loose ball and getting first possession. McCarron finished the match with four offensive and four defensive boards.

As expected, McCarron was able to set up his teammates with some elite passing, which has been the biggest strength of his game for a long time, and what the opposition looks to prevent the most.

Defensively, McCarron shone with a tireless effort which saw him produce big numbers in both the steals and blocks column. The 30-year-old hounded the opposition with ferocity and intent, and caused countless turnovers and headaches for the Flames.

It was a vintage performance from McCarron, who has shown no indication of slowing down, and should be a major weapon for the Bearcats in season 2023.