A quick look at the Tamworth Thunderbolts’ scoresheet from their match against the Hawkesbury Jets on Saturday reveals one thing straight away – Matt Monckton had a big game.
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The basketballer top-scored for Tamworth with 24 points – including a treble of three-pointers – in the 85-63 win.
It was Monckton’s biggest haul of the season but a quick chat with Thunderbolts coach John Ireland revealed just how big a game it was for the Tamworth junior.
“Matt probably had the best game I’ve seen him play since he made the transition from the junior ranks into the senior program,” Ireland said.
“He made a high percentage of mid-range shots and used his speed and athleticism well.
“He’s consistently played well this season – averaging in double figures easily. Defensively he’s working hard as well.”
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Monckton has averaged 13.4 points a game this season. Up from his average of 8.79 in 2017 while his top score from a single game last year was 12.
Saturday was the third time in 2018 he’d scored more than his 2017 top mark – just five games into the new season.
Ireland puts the form down to opportunity.
“He’s always been a talented kid,” Ireland said.
“Even as a junior, he was a high energy player who played a key role in a number of teams. He’s just been unfortunate he’s been behind imports in the same position and a talented kid in Max Chillingworth.
“He’s really stepped up this season and taken that opportunity with both hands.”
On Saturday night, the Bolts’ first half was dominant.
Tamworth led 53-26 after two quarters before the third term came along. It was a forgettable one.
“As a team, we were disappointed in our third quarter but that was credit to Hawkesbury. They made some serious adjustments on the run with changes to their game plan,” Ireland said.
“We probably didn't adjust quick enough to match that.”
Eventually the Bolts did.
Monckton played a big part in closing out the match along with new recruit Rashanti Harris who’s offensive rebounds were key.
Ireland also singled out Riley Murphy’s performance in the win. The youngster nailed two threes on his way to 10 points for the game.
“He’s only 17 but he made some big shots,” Ireland said.
Tamworth’s next game will be against the Newcastle Hunters at the Tamworth Sports Dome on Saturday, May 12.
