The Hornets took the series 2-0 and clinched automatic promotion to division two next season.

Hornets coach Barry McTaggart said a strong start set up the victory.

"We have had slow starts all season, it had been a problem for us," McTaggart said.

"The most pleasing thing was that we did it all with our defence, that set up our points."

Hornets enjoyed a 16-point lead at quarter time but the Cougars lifted and closed to within seven points late in the second quarter.

"I was not concerned. They were always going to make a run at us. You have to be a good side to make it into a grand final. But we steadied and by half-time were back out by 16," McTaggart said.

The Hornets broke away from the Cougars in the third term to open a 23-point lead at the final change.

McTaggart paid tribute to the Hornets' balanced scoring.

"We have never relied on one player for the whole season like other sides. We have had six players who could score 20 points in any given game," he said.

The Hornets balanced scoring was a feature on Saturday night with five players in double figures led by grand final Most Valuable Player Liam Norton, 23 points. Mark Dorward added 20 and captain Tim Pickert 19.

Cougars coach Bob Mann said his outfit had been beaten by a better side.

"Our guys have nothing to be ashamed of - the Hornets were fantastic. The Hornets were too good," he said.

The Hornets dedicated the title to legendary coach Owen Hughan who left the team mid-season after having a stroke.

McTaggart also announced that he would retire from elite level coaching.

Scores: Horsham Hornets 110 (L. Norton 23, M. Dorward 20) d McKinnon Cougars 82 (T. Burns 20, M. Yialas 19) at Horsham Basketball Stadium. Hornets win series 2-0.

•More championship reports and player ratings - page 39.