8th July 2026
Author: Maree DeGeorge
Melbourne, VICTORIA - Basketball fans are accustomed to seeing impressive stat lines, but every now and then a performance comes along that makes you stop and look twice.
Last Sunday afternoon, Kilsyth's Lily Exton delivered exactly that.
In just 16 minutes of court time against Geelong United, Exton recorded an astonishing 34 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals, no turnovers and shot 81%from the field, one of the most productive individual performances seen in the Victorian Youth Championship Women competition this season.
It marked her sixth double-double of the year, her third consecutive double-double and her second 30-point, 15-rebound game, helping lift Kilsyth into equal second on the ladder, just one game behind Diamond Valley.
Yet despite the extraordinary numbers, Exton admits statistics aren't what she thinks about.
"I don't really look at the stats too much personally," she said.
"Saturday was just really fun. I felt like I got into a flow state and the whole team contributed. We played really connected basketball, weren't overthinking things and just focused on the game."
For Exton, performances like Saturday's begin well before tip-off.
Her game day routine is built around consistency—starting the morning with time for herself, watching her brother play football, enjoying a protein-packed meal before arriving at the stadium two hours early to prepare.
"I like giving myself plenty of time," she explained.
"For me it's all in the preparation. Having a good meal, getting my energy up, spending time with the playing group and making sure I'm in the right headspace."
"Once I cross that line, nothing else matters except the game."
That mindset was especially important after missing a training session earlier in the week due to scheduling clashes.
"I just wanted to come out and do my part for the team."
Kilsyth Head Coach Michael Walsh said Exton's performance was a reflection of the impact she consistently has on the group, both on and off the court.
"Lily is a great contributor to our team," Walsh said.
"I'm really proud of the way she backs up after playing NBL1 South and comes into our program ready to give everything she's got. Whether it's on the floor or off the court, she's always looking to contribute."
While Exton's individual performance stole the headlines, she is quick to point to the environment that has helped Kilsyth emerge as one of the competition's genuine contenders.
"There are some really tough teams in this competition, but we've got a really good group," she said.
"We're athletic, we run the floor well and we have so many options."
"People should know this Kilsyth team won't back down. We're strong, united and determined. Everyone gives 110 per cent, whether they're on the court or coming off the bench."
After navigating injuries and player availability throughout the season, Exton believes the team's resilience has brought the group even closer together.
"Our trainings are really intense and everyone gives their best.
"The coaching staff have been amazing. Michael Walsh, Jess Chapman and Taylor Walsh put so much work into the group."
"We're really connected, really versatile and everyone genuinely wants to win. That makes playing together easy."
Walsh believes that team-first mentality has been a defining feature of the Cobras' campaign.
"After winning the championship last year, the challenge has been to go back-to-back," he said.
"We know we've got a target on our backs, but this group has embraced that challenge and continues to rise to it.
"What makes me most proud is that everyone contributes. Every player plays their role and puts the team first, and that's been a big part of our success."
Still completing Year 12 before heading to the United States in 2027 to continue her basketball journey at Washington State, Exton remains focused on continual improvement.
"I'm trying to become more of a threat from outside," she said.
"I want to be someone who can score from everywhere because there's always room to improve."
Her motivation comes from the people around her.
"I've got an amazing support network with my family, teammates, coaches and my NBL1 South program."
She also credits several coaches for helping shape both her basketball and her character.
"Emily Whittle-Harman has been incredible with her leadership and experience through the college system, while Jen Rushgrove has had a huge impact on my game and my life.
"They've both taught me not just about basketball, but how to be a good person."
Exton also acknowledged Kilsyth Head Coach Michael Walsh for believing in her and helping build a culture where every player can thrive.
With Kilsyth building momentum at the right time of the season, Exton's remarkable performance may have filled the box score, but perhaps her biggest takeaway says the most about why the Cobras continue to climb.
"It was just fun basketball," she said.
"When everyone's connected, trusts each other and plays together, that's when the game becomes really enjoyable."
-Ends-
For Media Enquiries:
Maree DeGeorge
Basketball Victoria
Media & Communications Specialist
maree.degeorge@basketballvictoria.com.au
0499 851 266
