Katanning basketballer Megan McKay takes MVP honours at NBL1 National Finals as her Braves claim top title

Katanning basketball sensation Megan McKay was crowned the competition‘s best after conquering the NBL1 National Finals in Perth earlier this month. McKay dropped 46 points at 79 per cent from the field and grabbed 15 rebounds in the grand final for the Bendigo Braves who smashed Norths Bears 114 to 87 at HBF Arena on Saturday, August 20. The Braves had to beat Cockburn Cougars on Friday and Northside Wizards on Saturday to qualify for the grand final. They did so in dominant fashion, winning both games by 44 and 39 points respectively. McKay averaged 32 points at 82 per cent and 12 rebounds across the three fixtures to be crowned MVP and was selected in the All-Star Five. McKay was humbled by the selection and pleased to share the honour with her teammate Amy Atwell. “Being named in the All-Star Five was a lovely surprise and doing it with fellow teammate and West Australian Amy Atwell was a nice touch,” McKay said. McKay is incredibly proud of her team’s triumph and having the opportunity to do it in her home State is something she cherishes. “Winning the national final was huge,” the 26-year-old said. “Especially coming over from Victoria and winning it in front of my family and friends in Perth.” McKay played all 23 games for the Braves this season, who finished undefeated to claim the title. She was the scoring champion with 552 points averaging 24 points per game, gained All-Star selection and was dual MVP alongside WNBL games-record holder Kelly Wilson. McKay said she would enjoy the off-season but was eager for more success next year. “I am taking a break from WNBL and am looking forward to having time on my weekends to travel. “But I am looking forward to playing for the Braves again next season and hopefully doing it all again.”