Starling, Rigoni star in semi-final success

Adelaide 36ers forwards Alex Starling and Jacob Rigoni have powered their clubs through to the next stage after dominant performances in NBL1 Central over the weekend.

Rigoni was outstanding as Sturt Sabres eliminated reigning NBL1 Central champions West Adelaide Bearcats 100-81 at Springbank on Saturday night.

The 197cm forward scored a game-high 35 points to go with six rebounds as the Sabres exploded in the first half, taking a 16-point lead into the main break.

West Adelaide tried to rally in the third quarter, but the Sabres had all the answers, 36ers new NBL25 signing Ben Griscti also key for Sturt, scoring 14 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.

Sturt now move into this week’s preliminary final against Forestville Eagles at Wayville.

Starling was everywhere as his South Adelaide Panthers booked their place in the NBL1 Central grand final with an 88-73 success against Forestville at Mitchell Park on Friday night.

The 199cm power forward scored 23 points, hauled in 10 rebounds and had six steals as South Adelaide fought back from a three-point half-time deficit for the 15-point victory.

South Adelaide will face the winner of this week’s Sturt-Forestville preliminary final in the grand final at Adelaide 36ers Arena on Saturday, August 10.

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Nick Marshall scored a game-high 35 points but it wasn’t enough as Mount Gambier had their NBL1 South season ended on Saturday night, the Pioneers falling 91-82 to Eltham Wildcats at Wulanda Recreation Centre.

Playing all 40 minutes, Marshall hauled in 11 rebounds and dished three assists, the 198cm swingman was a constant scoring threat for the Pioneers.

But Mount Gambier had to play catch up all game after Eltham took an early opening quarter lead, which led to the nine-point success.