Vocal crowd crucial to Slammer success

This weekend's State Basketball League semi-final will be played hard on the court but Collie Crane Hire South West Slammers officials will be hoping for a big influence from their sixth man - the crowd.

At the Slammers' previous home game, more than 900 people bellowed out chants of "let's go Slammers" and "defence" to help their side to a win the tight contest against the Willetton Tigers.

Slammers director Carl Catalano said the club wanted as many people as possible to get to Eaton Recreation Centre on Saturday night to cheer the boys home.

"The atmosphere we had at the last game was amazing," he said.

"Having a vocal crowd is something the players love and is intimidating for the other side."

Catalano also hoped people who attended the game would wear red in support of the club.

And he confirmed some special entertainment was in store.

"We want to make it an entertaining game night," he said.

Willetton Tigers head coach Alan Black said he felt the home crowd had helped the Slammers in their one-point win earlier this month.

"I think there is always a home court advantage," he said.

Slammers playing-coach Ty Harrelson pleaded with the team's South West fans to pack Eaton Recreation Centre as the side aimed for its first grand final appearance since 1999.

"Win or lose, you make a difference," he said of the crowd.

"You will see the pride each of them (players) takes in representing our community and the best basketball our State has to offer."

"Win or lose, you make a difference" - Slammers playing-coach Ty Harrelson