The Mandurah Magic's 2019 State Basketball League campaign kicks off with games in Lakeside on Friday night, with both sides setting the bar high as they enter the season.
The women are hoping to get back to the grand final after a pair of unsuccessful trips to the big dance in the past two seasons, while the men enter the year with renewed optimism as they attempt to haul themselves off the depths of the standings.
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Some fresh faces, stalwart veterans and young guns are on deck to help the Magic make those goals a reality. Below we take a look at some of the players you might want to keep an eye out for this season.
Men
Travis Durnin
Making his way back to Mandurah following a breakout stint with the South West Slammers, Durnin adds immediate firepower to the Magic's men. A capable shooter who will help take the pressure off all-star point guard Shaun Stewart, Durnin starred on his way to most improved player honours last year averaging 16 points and six rebounds per game.
Marvin Smith
The Magic's newest import player, Smith joins the team as a potential game changer with the ability to make big plays and shift a side's momentum. The versatile forward out of South Carolina Upstate works hard on the defensive end and enjoys pushing the pace on offence with a strong transition game.
Riley Parker
A homegrown youngster coming through the ranks, Parker impressed for the Magic in their SBL Pre-Season Blitz games and could get the chance to shine in the regular season. Coach Aaron Trahair has been known to give minutes to those who earn it regardless of their age, so there's a high chance Parker could see court time on the opening weekend.
Women
Kasey Miegel
Returning to the women's side following a year off in 2018, Miegel looms as a handy addition following the departure of Morgan Ballantyne to Perry Lakes. Tough defence and the ability to make plays when they matter feature in Miegel's game, with the youngster set to provide valuable help to the more experienced players on the roster.
Delany Junkermier
Joining the side after a stunning college career and a short stint playing in Ireland, Junkermier is going to be a huge part of Mandurah's push towards a title. Her length will add to the side's already strong defence, but it's her three-point game the Magic is hoping to harness most with the shooting guard boasting a lethal shot from beyond the arch.
Kelly Bailey
Bailey strung together a solid season for the Magic last year, performing well as both a starter and coming off the bench. Reliable in a variety of roles, Bailey's sound defence helps cause turnovers while she's not afraid to put up open shots. She can often help tip the scales in the Magic's favour when a game is hanging in the balance.