Stewart, Shabazz combine for 72 but Mandurah Magic fall just short of Goldfields in thriller

Shabazz hit a free-throw to give Mandurah a three-point lead in the final minute of the game, but Giant Jake Martin nailed a three-point bomb with just 12 seconds on the clock to tie the game while getting fouled on the play.

Martin sunk the clutch free throw to put the Giants up one, buoying them to a 105-104 win.

Stewart and Shabazz both had massive nights for Mandurah despite taking the loss, putting up 38 and 34 points respectively.

Their efforts gave Mandurah the hot hand early, particularly Shabazz who was off to a flying start when he scored 17 of his total 34 points in the opening quarter.

The small forward found his rhythm with shots falling from all over the court, helping Mandurah score 31 in the quarter and take a three-point lead at the end of the first 10 minutes.

His good work continued in the second period with a further eight points as the Magic escaped to an eight point lead at the half.

Stewart was able to find fluency in his game with 15 points in the third, but the rest of Mandurah’s scoring dried up as the Giants worked their way back to a two-point lead heading into the fourth.

The final period was a back and forth battle, with the scores tying up five times throughout it.

Mandurah put in a spirited effort with Stewart leading the way, but Martin’s final bucket and free throw got the hosts over the line in a thrilling finish.

Stewart finished with 11 rebounds and six assists to go with his 38 point outing, while Shabazz recorded seven rebounds next to his 34 points.

Chudier Pal was also productive for the Magic with 10 points, seven rebounds.

Jeylyn Sharpe led the way for the Goldfields with 38 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists while Kyle Sovene put up 30 points, 11 rebounds.