17
Nov
4 min read
'Movie star' puts on 51-point showstopper
James Batemon of the Bullets brings the ball up during the round nine NBL match between Brisbane Bullets and Perth Wildcats at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, on November 17, 2024, in Brisbane, Australia. Photo: Chris Hyde/Getty Images
James Batemon shatters NBL records with 51-Point performance
- Batemon scores 51 points, setting new Bullets record in 40-minute era
- Brisbane Bullets secure 105-84 victory against Perth Wildcats
- Performance includes nine three-pointers and career-high shooting
James Batemon said it was "like being in a movie" as he etched his name in NBL history, scoring a record-breaking 51 points for the Brisbane Bullets in their commanding 105-84 win over the Perth Wildcats at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Sunday, November 17, 2024.
Batemon's Historic Performance
Batemon's extraordinary display saw him become the first player in the 40-minute NBL era to surpass 50 points for the Brisbane Bullets. The dynamic guard's scoring outburst included an impressive 9-of-15 shooting from beyond the arc, setting the tone early with four three-pointers in the first quarter alone.
"When I looked up the scoreboard and the most nervous I've ever been honestly in basketball was shooting that free-throw when I had 39," he said.
"I was thinking, 'Man I'm about to get 40, I've never scored over 34'.
"That was crazy and once I got to 50 I knew it was good with the last free-throw.
"I can't really explain the feeling, I'm still up on a high right now and it's amazing the crowd kept giving me energy and the teammates.
"It was like I was in a movie, man, it was crazy."
The American import's stellar performance comes on the heels of a role change that has seen him move to the bench, providing a scoring punch that has elevated his game. Prior to Sunday's explosion, Batemon had been averaging 15.2 points over the past six matches.
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Team Effort Secures Victory
While Batemon's scoring prowess stole the headlines, the Bullets' victory was bolstered by strong contributions from their supporting cast. Next Star Rocco Zikarsky took advantage of increased playing time due to Tyrell Harrison's foul trouble, notching a career-high 13 points and six rebounds. Keandre Cook also made his presence felt, draining four three-pointers en route to 17 points, five rebounds, and five assists.
The win improves Brisbane's record to 4-6 heading into the FIBA break, providing a much-needed boost for the squad.
Wildcats Struggle to Find Rhythm
On the opposing side, the Perth Wildcats (now 6-7) struggled to match Brisbane's offensive firepower. Bryce Cotton, coming off a 33-point performance against South East Melbourne Phoenix, had an uncharacteristically difficult night, missing his first 11 shots and finishing with just 13 points on 3-of-16 shooting.
Keanu Pinder emerged as the bright spot for Perth, contributing 27 points on efficient 11-of-16 shooting. However, the team's overall performance left coach John Rillie disappointed.
"When we're dialled in and locked in defensively we're a very good team," Rillie said.
"Tonight we didn't have that for consistent and long enough periods to arrest the momentum into our favour."
