DrinkWise Game Preview: Bendigo Spirit v Adelaide Lightning

23 January 2025 | Bendigo Spirit news

WHEN: Friday 24 January, 2025
TIME: 6.30pm AEDT
WHERE: Red Energy Arena, Bendigo
TICKETS: Via Ticketek


The Matchup

Bendigo Spirit will host the Adelaide Lightning in what promises to be an electrifying Round 13 clash of the 2024/25 WNBL season.  Both teams are eager to secure a win, where the Spirit looks to cement their spot atop the ladder, whilst the Lighting still fights for a place in the playoffs.

Bendigo Spirit

Bendigo Spirit is looking to continue their winning ways and continue their winning streak to seven when they face the seventh-placed Lightning on their home court.  All eyes will be on Spirit star, Sami Whitcomb, to see what she can produce this weekend.  In two wins from as many games during Round 12, she averaged 25 points, six rebounds and four assists per game – but it was not enough to earn her a spot in the League’s ‘Team of the Week’.  Can she elevate her performance this week to make the cut?

Adelaide Lightning

Adelaide Lightning come into this game off a tough loss to the Sydney Flames on the road last week – one of the other teams the Lightning are competing against for the final spot in the playoffs.  The Lightning will be looking to stick with the Spirit from the very beginning on the scoreboard if they are genuinely going to push the ladder leaders.

Key Matchup

Sami Whitcomb (Bendigo Spirit) v Isobel Borlase (Adelaide Lightning)

The matchup of the Australian Opals Olympic Team members will go a long way to determining the winner of the match.  Whitcomb got the better of the matchup during their team’s last encounter in December in Adelaide, but Borlase will be out for revenge…  Both are in the League’s top 10 for scoring – with Whitcomb ranked 1st, and Borlase 9th.  Whilst both are lethal from the perimeter, they also have the strength to take the hits and finish in the paint.

What to Watch For

  • Rebounding battle: Both teams have strong rebounders, so controlling the boards will be crucial.
  • Three-point shooting: Perimeter shooting could be a game-changer, with both teams having sharpshooters capable of making big shots.
  • Bench impact: The depth of each team’s bench could play a significant role, especially in maintaining intensity throughout the game.

Final Thoughts

This game is set to be a thrilling encounter with both teams having a lot at stake.  The Bendigo Spirit will rely on their home support to push them over the line, while the Adelaide Lightning will look to get back on the winners lists.  Don’t miss out on what promises to be an exciting and closely contested game!