As the reigning Swedish champion and also in the regular season, Luleå was counted as favorites to take a new gold when the finals were to be decided this year.
Instead, it was the Norrköping Dolphins who took an early lead in the final series (2-0 in matches). And despite Luleå winning the latest event, Norrköping was able to secure the gold this Wednesday.
With an eager cheering crowd in the back, the home team – led by Australian Kate Oliver – also took command at Stadium arena in Norrköping. In a final that was sometimes marked by simple mistakes, Kate Oliver was the safety herself.
During the first period, Oliver was one hundred percent and at half time she had been listed for 20 points – significantly more than any other teammate.
– Luleå’s Bria Goss (center) during the basketball final against Norrköping Dolphins.
Photo: Stefan Jerrevång / TT
Despite it nice Norrköping start fought Luleå back and went to the break with a lead (46-42).
– It feels like we want this so much and it should not end tonight. We let go of their shooting a bit sometimes and give them easy offensive returns, but otherwise I think we make a good half, Luleå’s Ellen Nyström told SVT during the half-time break.
Kate Oliver was in turn in Norrköping allowed too many game turns in the first half.
– Everyone is a little tired but we have to be smarter with the ball, she said.
– Taylor Murray (left) was Norrköping’s second best scorer.
Photo: Stefan Jerrevång / TT
The fourth final continued to be a steady shaker. Because with a jump start, Norrköping took the lead after eight quick points. Luleå did not give up but came back and passed again, among other things after good play by Bria Goss who after three periods had been noted for 24 points.
In the fourth and final period, Norrköping Dolphins was the strongest and secured with some effort thus the Swedish Championship gold after a total of 3-1 in matches. It was the club’s third title after also winning 2000 and 2013.
The text is updated.
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