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BENDIGO Braves coach Ben Harvey has called on the region’s basketball fans to rally behind the club’s men’s and women’s teams this Friday night for the opening of Bendigo Stadium’s new show court.
The $23-million expansion has a capacity of 4000 people, but Harvey and the Braves would like to see people come out in their droves.
Harvey, the Braves 2016 national championship coach, said it was shaping as a massive night and urged basketball fans to be part of history.
“This facility is world class, so we’d ask people to come out and support the women, who haven’t lost a game, and come and support the men,” he said.
“It’s exciting to be part of it, especially if you have never been to a game.
“There will be so many things we haven’t done before on the big Jumbotron.
“We’d like to think that it’s more than a basketball game on Friday night, it’s an event and something Bendigo as a region can be very proud of.”
More than 2000 tickets have already been sold for Friday night’s doubleheader against Sandringham Sabres.
The opening comes at a crucial point in the season for Harvey’s Braves, who have lost their last three games and four of their last five following an impressive 4-0 start.
There are no such concerns for the Braves women, under first-year coach Megan Moody, who have raced to 8-0 and sit atop the 16-team competition.
We’d like to think that it’s more than a basketball game on Friday night.
- Ben Harvey
Harvey described Friday night’s clash as ‘massive’ given the Braves’ recent fortunes.
“The women have been outstanding, but it’s a must win game for us,” he said.
“We’ve hit a bit of a hurdle, but as coach I’m going to make sure the guys are ready for the big occasion and put on a good show.”
It will be an exciting night for the players, including many like 19-year-old Madi Sexton, for whom the former show court holds so many fond memories.
“It’s going to be a bit strange, I’m so used to the rings (on the old show court) – these new rings are taking a bit of getting used to,” said Sexton, who has matured from junior Brave to third-year SEABL player.
“But I am beyond excited – I don’t think I have ever played in a stadium this big, or in front of as many people I’m hoping will be there on Friday night.
“I’ll be a bit nervous, but it will be exciting at the same time. I can’t wait.”
The Braves wonen face Sandringham at 6pm, while the Braves men tip-off at 8pm.
For tickets, visit Ticketek.