

Brisbane Spartans Women 82 – 86 Northside Wizards Women
National Women’s Basketball League1 North – May 9, 2026
In a thrilling NWBL1 North encounter, the Northside Wizards Women edged out the Brisbane Spartans Women 86-82 in a contest that went down to the wire. The Wizards’ composure in the final minutes proved decisive, snapping a tight game that featured 11 lead changes and five ties.
Match Overview
Both teams traded baskets for three quarters, with neither able to establish a double-digit advantage. The Spartans leaned on their home crowd and a strong inside game, while Northside relied on perimeter shooting and transition offense. The fourth quarter saw the Wizards pull ahead with a 9-2 run in the final three minutes, keyed by clutch three-point shooting and crucial defensive stops.
Key Moments
- End-of-third momentum: Brisbane entered the final period with a 63-61 lead, but Northside’s defense tightened immediately after the break.
- Clutch shooting: Northside hit three triples in the last four minutes, including a dagger by their shooting guard with 45 seconds remaining.
- Free-throw precision: The Wizards converted 8 of 10 free throws in the closing minute to seal the road win.
Standout Performers
Northside’s backcourt duo combined for 48 points, with one guard recording a double-double (22 points, 11 assists). For the Spartans, their power forward posted 18 points and 14 rebounds, but the team’s 14 turnovers proved costly. Brisbane’s bench was outscored 26-12, a margin that ultimately decided the game.
Season Impact
The Wizards move into a tie for third place in the NWBL1 North standings, building momentum as the season approaches its midpoint. The Spartans drop to sixth, and while they remain in playoff contention, the loss highlights their need for consistent scoring in crunch time.
