(CANBERRA, Australia) — The Knox Raiders women’s basketball team captured their first NBL1 National Championship title on Sunday, defeating the previously undefeated Cockburn Cougars 93-72 in a commanding performance at the national final held in Australia’s capital.
The Raiders’ victory was particularly impressive given their slow start to the championship game. Knox found themselves trailing for much of the opening half before mounting a comeback to take a narrow 46-42 advantage into the halftime break. The turning point came in the third quarter when the Raiders exploded with a decisive 14-0 run that effectively sealed the contest and handed Cockburn their first defeat of the season.
Championship Journey
The path to the national title required Knox to overcome multiple challenges throughout the playoffs:
NBL1 South Championship Victory: The Raiders first secured their regional title with an impressive 84-64 triumph over the previously unbeaten Geelong United, establishing themselves as serious championship contenders.
National Finals Run: Knox advanced through the national tournament by defeating both the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and Waverley Falcons to earn their spot in the championship game.
Grand Final Dominance: In the title game, the Raiders overcame early adversity to thoroughly outplay Cockburn in the second half, completing their remarkable championship season.
Key Contributors
Murray State University alumna Katelyn Young provided valuable contributions off the bench for the Raiders, recording 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist in 16 minutes of action during the finals.
Championship Significance
The victory represents a historic achievement for the Knox Raiders organization, marking their first NBL1 National Championship. The triumph also ended Cockburn’s perfect season, making the Raiders the first team to defeat the Cougars in 2025.
With this championship, Knox has established itself as the premier women’s basketball program in Australia’s NBL1 competition, capping off what team officials are calling a truly remarkable season.
Final Score: Knox Raiders 93, Cockburn Cougars 72
Location: Canberra, Australia
Event: 2025 NBL1 National Championship Final