Nunawading Spectres 111 – 106 Dandenong Rangers | NBL1 South | 30 May 2026

The Nunawading Spectres overcame a gritty challenge from the Dandenong Rangers to secure a 111–106 victory in a high‑scoring NBL1 South clash. Both sides entered the contest looking to build momentum in the mid‑season standings, and they delivered an entertaining back‑and‑forth battle that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.

Match Overview

From the opening tip‑off, the offensive pace was relentless. Nunawading established an early rhythm, pushing the ball in transition and knocking down perimeter shots. The Rangers, however, answered with their own brand of aggressive drives and timely three‑pointers. The first half ended with the Spectres holding a narrow 55–52 advantage, setting the stage for a tense second half.

Key Moments

• Third‑quarter surge: Nunawading opened the second half with a 10‑3 run, stretching their lead to double digits for the first time. The run was sparked by a pair of steals that turned into fast‑break layups.
• Dandenong’s fightback: Trailing by 12 points midway through the final quarter, the Rangers mounted a furious comeback. A trio of three‑pointers in consecutive possessions cut the deficit to just three points with three minutes remaining.
• Clutch free‑throws: The Spectres’ composure at the charity stripe proved decisive. They converted 8 of 10 free throws in the last two minutes, with veteran guard Ben Atherton sinking four straight to ice the game.

Standout Performers

Nunawading Spectres: Power forward Jake Wilmot was unstoppable, pouring in 28 points on 11‑of‑16 shooting while grabbing 11 rebounds for a double‑double. Point guard Liam Smith added 22 points and 8 assists, controlling the tempo effectively.

Dandenong Rangers: Sharpshooter Mitch Carter led all scorers with 31 points, including 6 three‑pointers. Center David Teny posted 14 points and 13 rebounds, but his team’s inability to contain Wilmot in the paint proved costly.

Impact on the NBL1 South Standings

The victory keeps Nunawading firmly in the playoff hunt, moving them to a 9‑5 record. Dandenong drops to 7‑7, still within striking distance of the top six, but they will need to correct defensive lapses that allowed 111 points. This result adds another chapter to the rivalry between two of Victoria’s most storied NBL1 programs.