Basketball Recap: Elena Neel's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Melbourne over Sebastian River

If Melbourne was feeling good fresh off their 53-27 takedown of Calvary Chapel Academy last Tuesday, their most recent game may have dampened their spirits a bit. The Melbourne Bulldogs fell 37-29 to the Sebastian River Sharks on Friday. The Bulldogs have struggled against the Sharks recently, as the game was their fifth consecutive lost matchup.

Melbourne lost despite a true team effort on offense, the best among them being Elena Neel, who posted 11 points in addition to seven rebounds and three steals. The dominant performance gave Neel a new career-high in boards. Brianna Matthews was another key player, putting up eight points along with 16 rebounds and five blocks.

Even though they lost, Melbourne smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 15 offensive boards. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least eight offensive rebounds in five consecutive games.

Sebastian River's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Bella Bowen, who scored six points in addition to five boards and four steals. Another player making a difference was Jayda Pickard, who had four points.

Melbourne's defeat dropped their record down to 12-11. As for Sebastian River, their victory was their sixth straight at home, which pushed their record up to 13-5.

Melbourne is taking a road trip to face off against Bishop Moore at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Melbourne is facing Bishop Moore at the right time seeing as Bishop Moore is stuck on a three-game losing streak. As for Sebastian River, they will look to defend their home court on Monday against Heritage at 7:00 p.m.