Match Report: Bellarine Storm Women Dominate Warrnambool Mermaids 79-61

The Bellarine Storm Women put together a commanding performance in the Australia Big V Women's League on Sunday, June 14, 2026, cruising to a 79-61 victory over the visiting Warrnambool Mermaids Women. The win, played at Bellarine's home court with a noon tip‑off, showcased the Storm's balanced offense and relentless defensive pressure from the opening quarter.

Game Flow and Key Moments

Bellarine seized control early, using a full‑court press that forced several Mermaids turnovers. By the end of the first quarter, the Storm had built a 22-14 lead, with guard Emily Chen scoring eight points on fast‑break opportunities. Warrnambool tried to rally in the second period, cutting the deficit to single digits behind sharp shooting from forward Sarah Mitchell, who finished the half with 12 points. However, Bellarine responded with a 9‑2 run just before halftime to push the margin to 41-30.

The third quarter proved decisive. The Storm's interior defense, anchored by center Jessica Reeves, limited Warrnambool to just 13 points in the period. Meanwhile, Bellarine's forwards Kate Anderson and Lauren Blake combined for 14 third‑quarter points, stretching the lead to 20 points heading into the final frame. The Mermaids never got closer than 15 points in the fourth, as the Storm maintained a comfortable advantage until the final buzzer.

Standout Performers

• Jessica Reeves (Bellarine) – Dominated the paint with a double‑double: 16 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocked shots. Her presence altered multiple Warrnambool drives.
• Emily Chen (Bellarine) – Added 18 points and 7 assists, consistently breaking the Mermaids' defensive sets with her speed and court vision.
• Sarah Mitchell (Warrnambool) – A bright spot for the visitors, scoring a game‑high 22 points while shooting 8‑of‑16 from the field. She also grabbed 6 rebounds.

Impact on the Standings

The victory improves Bellarine Storm's record to 7‑3 in the Big V Women's League, keeping them firmly in the top four as the season approaches its midpoint. Warrnambool Mermaids, now 4‑6, will need to tighten their defense after allowing more than 75 points for the third time this month. The Storm's ability to control tempo and convert turnovers into easy baskets could make them a dangerous contender in the upcoming playoff race.