The Bendigo Braves women have missed out on a spot in the grand final after a narrow three-point loss to the Geelong Supercats, final scores 83-80.
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The Supercats started the game with high intensity and kept the momentum flowing to see the Braves trail on their heels for majority of the match at the Geelong Arena.
The hosts held a seven-point lead at the first break, which they were only able to extend to eight in a closely contested second quarter.
There was still hope for the Braves at the end of the third quarter, with only 12-points between the teams, but the Supercats had no plans to concede on their home court.
The Braves kicked off the final quarter with a late-minute charge to get within only eight points of the Supercats, and then down to five at approximately half-way through the term.
In the dying minutes the Braves came within three points, but it was all too late.
Becca Tobin top scored with 23 points and 20 rebounds and four steals to secure a double-double.
Kelly Wilson also notched a double-double with 16 points, 12 assists and two steals.
Tessa Lavey also made a strong contribution with 17 points, three rebounds and four assists.
The Braves had very few answers for the shooting power of the Supercats' Zitina Aokuso, Sara Blicavs, Ezi Magbegor and Jazmin Shelley.
The Supercats will now play the Kilsyth Cobras in next weekend's NBL1 Women's Championship match on August 17 at the State Basketball Centre in Wantirna South, tip-off at 5pm.
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