A major upset shook the Bermuda Netball Association Senior League as Storm handed champions Phoenix Heat their first defeat in years with a 30-25 victory on Tuesday night.

Heat, league winners since 2017 except during the Covid-19 pandemic, had dominated the competition, previously winning as Lady Bluebirds from 2013 to 2016. However, Storm’s balanced attack and resilient defence halted their streak.

Selah Tuzo led Storm’s scoring with 13 goals, supported by MVP Inshan-nae Smith with eight, Nabiilah Nasir with seven, and Elishae Smith contributing two while excelling defensively. Heat, whose MVP was Stacia Ming, saw K'Xiyae Gibbons top score with nine goals, aided by best attacker Eshé Grant. Chelzea Somner earned the standout defender award.

Tuzo, returning for a full season with Storm after graduating from York University, expressed hope that her team could maintain their league-leading position.

“We didn’t even start with our usual line-up,” Tuzo said. “Despite that, we were still able to win, which is commendable. I’m hoping we can persevere after the Christmas break and fight for the title.”

Storm captain Debré Evans relished the victory, especially against players she admired growing up.

“Tuesday’s win was a full-circle moment,” Evans said. “It’s refreshing to know our training has paid off. Phoenix are a tough team to beat, but it shows we’re determined to win the league.”

Heat captain Kianté Lightbourne vowed her team would rebound stronger.

“It’s a tough pill to swallow. In my time at the club, we haven’t lost a league match,” Lightbourne said. “We’ve been reflecting on the game, and it’s a testament to our mindset. Falling short doesn’t sit right, but we’ll fix that.”

Heat are without star goal shooter Danielle Raynor, sidelined with a knee injury.

“We obviously missed Danielle. Her presence and shooting percentage are unmatched,” Lightbourne said. “We didn’t take care of our possessions, and that made it hard for us. We closed the gap to one, but it wasn’t enough.

“The younger Storm players weren’t the reason they won — it was about how they played as a team. For us, the focus is on integrating youth talent and leveraging the experience in our squad.”

Heat face another challenge against Tigers on Saturday, a rematch of last season’s title decider. Lightbourne acknowledged the quick turnaround.

“This match fell on our training day, so we don’t have court time before Saturday,” she said. “But we know what we need to do. After this weekend, we’ll regroup and take it one match at a time as we move into the new year.”