And had lost all of them.
After last year’s heartbreaking loss in the Big V division one grand final, Shepparton went one better, taking home the trophy in a grand final win over RMIT in August.
And Beks finally got his hands on a chip.
Now, he’s got the chance to take home his second in a year.
After losing the Country Basketball League grand final three times in a row with Benalla Breakers, Beks is hoping 2023 is his year for redemption.
This year the men’s and women’s North East CBL grand finals will be at Shepparton Sports Stadium on Saturday night, December 9.
Benalla will face Myrtleford Saints at 8pm.
“Myrtleford are a good team,” Beks said.
“They’re very athletic and play at a fast pace.
“It should be a really good game, I’m thinking probably within 10 points, so hopefully we come out on the winning side.”
Beks said he felt confident after his side knocked out Seymour in the semis, which was the favourite heading into the season after winning the past two seasons.
The Breakers were at home in front of an electric Benalla crowd and Beks hoped some would come along to help Benalla gain an advantage.
He encouraged supporters of the Big V Gators to head along and catch some high-quality basketball and bring that home crowd energy.
While Beks is keen to add another trophy to his cabinet, he said it’s his teammates and coach who really deserve the victory.
Breakers coach Wally Armstrong and Breakers centre Lachlan Kego came over from Benalla to Shepparton’s Big V side and were instrumental in the Gators’ success.
“I want to win it for him (Armstrong) and get Lachie (Kego) a win for his hometown,” Beks said.
“The locals deserve it with the work they’ve put in setting up the program.”
Before the men’s game the women’s North East CBL grand final will tip-off.
Seymour Blasters will take on Albury Cougars at 5.15pm at Shepparton Sports Stadium.
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