While many were outside taking in the sun, some of us were inside the Sport Wales National Centre watching the basketball. Despite the heat of so many packed bodies in one room, and having to initially sit on the stairs between chairs, the energy in the room was palpable. The Cardiff supporters absolutely overpowered the Swansea side—so much so that many spectators, like me, were placed on enemy lines.
While this meant I was victim to sitting amidst the Swans chanting, it did mean that I got a good view of Cardiff celebrating after each electric shot. At the beginning, as nerves were heightened there were many instances of obstructions and a fair few free throws for each team. This proved that both teams equally wanted the win and were anxious to get it—even if it meant a bit of contact, some impressive falls, and proclaiming injury for penalties. Early on, Swansea took a healthy lead, but after the Cardiff team had settled, they started to equalise and it was anyone’s game to win. Both teams’ standard of playing was incredible, from making jump shots and layups look easy to the insane distances they were successfully scoring long-range shots.
While there were a few standout players on Swansea’s side, Cardiff’s team overall had consistently good players and each rotation of players made no difference to the quality of their play.
Our Cardiff team is an impressive group of individuals, and their communication on the pitch was definitely a central factor in their success. Even when our players were sitting on the sidelines, they were either ready to go on or in full support of the players on the court. As the second half began, it was evident that Cardiff had taken a good lead and it would be difficult for Swansea to catch up. Despite this, Swansea did give it their best, and their team did achieve some incredible shots even after the win was out of sight. Swansea have an impressive team, and last year they took the win from us, so this year it was only right that on our turf we gave them a run for their money.
By the end, there was no coming back for the Swans, and the Dragons took the opportunity in the last 15 minutes to get as many shots as possible. In the final moments, the score was a staggering 79–56 to us. The team worked incredibly hard for an hour and a half in a hot room with a tough opponent. An obvious and deserved win in the end, but no doubt an incredibly entertaining match to watch.