Geraldton Buccaneers prepare for season 2025 tip-off as they face double-header in Perth

The Geraldton Buccaneers’ two new recruits have fitted in seamlessly, according to the coach, as the team gears up for the tip-off to a new NBL1 West season.

The Buccs kick off their 2025 campaign with an away double-header this weekend against Joondalup and Kalamunda.

They welcomed US import Akeem Springs during the off-season, who promises to bring excitement to the fans as the American dons the blue and gold this season.

The 30-year-old brings versatility to the squad, a six-foot guard who has the added experience of playing all over the world but also all over the court.

Along with Springs, the Buccs’ front office also secured Darwin talent Verle Williams in the off-season. The 180cm guard made his way down from the NBL1 North league where he played for the Darwin Salties as a point guard.

Buccs’ coach Dayle Joseph said both inclusions have fitted into the squad smoothly.

“Akeem has fitted in really well and seems to be understanding our structures,” he said.

“Same to be said for Verle, he is already getting to know how everyone on the team plays. He knows that game really well and is a true point guard.

“Both of them will provide us with really important minutes on the court this season and add to our depth.”

While Springs and Williams have freshened up the squad, Joseph said the Buccs’ retuning stars have set the tone in the off-season and pre-season.

“The returning boys have made it really easy for the new players that have come in,” he said.

“The boys have drilled home the do’s and don’ts of the team and the culture that we expect so that really helps the team dynamic.

“They set a high example and a high work rate to show what’s required to be part of the Buccaneers team.”

Joseph said season 2025 would provide opportunity for the squad’s younger players to showcase their talent on the big stage.

“We are lucky to have some young guns that have been proving themselves in the amateur league over the summer period,” he said.

“Denbi Horstman is someone who continues to work on his craft and will get an opportunity at some stage this season.

“A few others of note too along with Max De San Miguel who is representing WA at the Country State Champs.”

With the focus on this weekend, Joseph said while the ultimate goal was to win, it would be exciting just to see a few new inclusions play in the blue and gold.

“Ultimately a win would be great but I think to see the squad gel together will be promising in the long term,” he said.

“We face Joondalup on Saturday and Kalamunda on Sunday first up away from home who pose a threat to a championship and obviously have hopes of winning one so they will be great challenges for us to face first up as a team.”

On the back of their first two games away, the Buccs will return home to host the Perth Redbacks at Activewest Stadium on Saturday, April 12.

Joseph said the squad was looking forward to playing in front of possibly a sell-out crowd.

“It will be great for the new players to get a taste of just how popular basketball here in Geraldton is.,” he said.

The Buccs will be looking to progress even further than they did last season, when they lost a home preliminary final after winning the 2023 championship.

The Geraldton Buccaneers take on Joondalup Wolves on Saturday, April 5 at Arena Joondalup and the Eastern Suns on Sunday, April 6 at Ray Owen Sports Centre.

To get the full NBL1 West fixtures visit: https://nbl1.com.au/fixtures/west