ABA 2025-26: Sonics dominate the Tigers to reach preliminary final and Magpies go direct to grand final

Sonics have powered into the preliminary final, cruising past Railways Tigers with a dominant 19-point win in their elimination final in the Albany Basketball Association women’s A-grade on Tuesday night. In a ruthless display, Sonics combined a relentless defensive effort with strong attacking pressure to control the contest from start to finish, keeping the Tigers to a lowly score. Sonics led 22-16 at half-time before solidifying their lead after the break. The Tigers were restricted to just seven points in the second half, while Sonics piled on 20 to seal a comfortable victory, 42-23. Sonics defensive structure proved difficult to penetrate, while their offensive capitalised on scoring opportunities throughout the game. Frustration crept in for the Tigers later in the game as they committed regular fouls. Kaylee Arthur was superb on the court for Sonics, finishing as the game’s top scorer with 19 points, including two three pointers. Aleesha Narkle was damaging from deep with three triples and Phoenix Woods added six points. For the Tigers, Sophie Pearson was strong with seven points and Georgia Whitelaw battled hard with five points but their side was knocked out. The win means Sonics advance to the preliminary final, where they will face Barking Owls next Tuesday at 6pm. Meanwhile Denmark Magpies have secured a spot in the grand final after a hard fought 41-38 victory over Barking Owls in the qualifying final. The Owls controlled the first half, leading 19-13 at the main break, but the Magpies responded strongly after halftime to claw their way back into the contest. Both teams were drawn at 22-all midway through the second half before the Magpies edged ahead in a tense finish. With the Owls closing the gap to a single point in the final minutes, Ashlee Kerr delivered under pressure, scoring back to back points to seal the win. Kerr led the Magpies with 11 points, including five free throws, while Rebecca Benson matched her output for the Owls with 11 points. The Magpies now await the winner of the preliminary final between Sonics and the Owls.