Spirit at full strength for Boomers clash
For the first time this WNBL season, Bendigo Spirit coach Kennedy Kereama will have a fit and healthy squad at his disposal.
As the Spirit prepare to take on Melbourne Boomers at Parkville Stadium on Saturday, Ella Gordon and Sophia Locandro come of the injury-list in a much-needed boost.
Kereama said he’d felt a difference on the practice court having every player in the squad out there.
“It’s the healthiest team we’ve had at our disposal, we’ve basically got everyone out there now,” he said.
“Everyone has come back fresh after a few days off and hit the reset button as we look towards coming home with a wet sail.”
After losing their first four games of the season, Bendigo are 3-3 in their last six to get the season back on track as Kereama eyes a rise up a congested ladder.
“It’s certainly doable because the difference between last place and the top-four is anywhere between three or four games,” he said.
Alicia Froling, who is putting together an excellent season, averaging 11.8 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, comes up against her twin sister Keely in an exciting battle.
“It’s a pretty fearsome rivalry between siblings, for sure,” Kereama said.
“They’ve both very impressive athletes and have that typical Froling competitive element to them, neither is prepared to take a backward step.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to be around Alicia for the last three WNBL seasons and she’s come a long way and has probably had her best WNBL season to date.”
Melbourne are sitting in third spot on the ladder with 7-4 record, including a win over powerhouse Townsville.
GAME DETAILS
Spirit v Boomers
Parkville Stadium, Melbourne
Saturday, December 30
Tip-off at 5pm EDT
INJURY LIST
Nil
SPIRIT ROSTER
You can view the Spirit’s 2023-24 playing roster here
SEASON FIXTURES
You can view the Spirit’s 2023-24 season fixture here
HOW TO WATCH
All games will again be broadcast live, with Wednesday night games (and all finals games) on ESPN (Foxtel, KAYO and Sky Sports NZ), while all other games will be shown on the Nine Network’s free digital channel, 9Now. Internationally all games will be broadcast live on FIBA YouTube.