Round 2 of the WNBL season delivered captivating storylines, from scintillating performances by league newcomers to injury updates on marquee players. The early action has set the stage for what promises to be a compelling campaign ahead.
Imports Make Instant Impact
Anticipation surrounded the WNBL debuts of several import players, and they certainly did not disappoint. Leading the charge was Japreese Dean, who announced her arrival for the Adelaide Lightning in style. The 28-year-old guard topped her team’s scoring with an efficient 23 points, supplementing her scoring output with four rebounds, four assists, and three steals.
Dean’s stellar play even caught the eye of reigning Suzy Batkovic Medalist, WNBA champion, and her former UCLA teammate Jordin Canada, who praised the WNBL rookie on social media after her outstanding first outing.
Not to be outdone, Bendigo Spirit’s prized recruit Veronica Burton offered a tantalizing glimpse of her potential. Though her final stat line of six points, eight rebounds, and seven assists wasn’t as gaudy as Dean’s, Burton’s on-court chemistry with teammate Sami Whitcomb was evident. Their budding partnership could develop into a formidable one-two punch for Bendigo.
Townsville’s American Duo Shines
The Townsville Fire’s American imports also wasted no time making their presence felt. Lauren Cox stuffed the stat sheet with 12 points, six rebounds, four assists, four blocks, and two steals in a complete performance. Her frontcourt partner Zia Cooke provided instant offense off the bench, tallying 15 points in just 12 minutes of action as Townsville blew out the Melbourne Boomers.
Promising Signs from Fresh Faces
Round 2 also saw some impressive cameos from rising Australian talents. Hannah Hank contributed nine points and six rebounds for the Geelong Supercats in her WNBL debut, while Manuella Puoch made the most of her limited minutes for the Southside Flyers, scoring five quick points in just six minutes on the floor. Their performances bode well for the future of Australian women’s basketball.
Injury Report: Stars Sidelined
Unfortunately, Round 2 also brought injury concerns for some of the league’s top players. Paris Olympics medalist Amy Atwell is expected to miss the upcoming anticipated matchup between the Boomers and the Fire as she nurses a knee injury.
Meanwhile, Steph Talbot’s status for the Adelaide Lightning’s Saturday home opener against the Perth Lynx remains uncertain due to a calf issue. Veteran forward Kelsey Griffin may face an even longer spell after breaking her finger, courtesy of a physical run-in with Opal Marianna Tolo during training.
Legend Praises Rookie Sensation
Newly-minted Basketball Hall of Famer Michele Timms had glowing remarks for Townsville Fire rookie guard Abbey Ellis, who impressed in her WNBL debut. Timms, who previously coached Ellis at youth levels, praised the 23-year-old’s poise and readiness for the big stage.
“Abbey Ellis wasn’t a rookie in any form or fashion, she came out and looked like she belonged straight away. She didn’t take a step back, provided fantastic penetration, got her feet in the paint whenever she wanted, she was great.”
– Michele Timms on Abbey Ellis
Timms also expressed delight that Ellis landed with the Fire under the tutelage of four-time Coach of the Year Shannon Seebohm, believing it to be the optimal situation for the Purdue University product to kick off her professional career.
As the WNBL season rolls on, the storylines emanating from Round 2 – electric imports, emerging youngsters, and injury-hampered stars – will continue to shape what’s shaping up to be a fascinating and hotly-contested campaign. If the early action is any indication, fans are in for a treat as Australia’s premier women’s basketball league continues to deliver the goods.
