Game 3 Predictions from WNBL Past and Present
The WNBL championship trophy will be lifted at Parkville on Saturday when Melbourne Boomers and Perth Lynx do battle in the finale of an epic Grand Final series.
The Lynx took game 1, 98-77, in opposition territory on April 2 then on Wednesday night in Perth the Boomers bounced back with a nail biting 75-76 victory sending the series to a deciding game for the third time since the introduction of the best-of-three format in 2015-16.
Megan Hustwaite asked past and present WNBL names for their game 3 tip and prediction for the Rachael Sporn Medal for Grand Final MVP.
Nat Hurst – 7-time WNBL champion
“Melbourne by 7 points. I just think it’s their time and Cayla George seems to be leading the charge and putting the team on her shoulders for Guy Molloy to finish on top before he leaves. Lindsay Allen for the Rachael Sporn Medal.”
Keely Froling -Sydney Flames. 2x WNBL champion
“I’m tipping Perth to win it and Marina Mabrey to be Grand Final MVP. She’s the x-factor for Perth and I can’t see them losing two games in a row.”
Tessa Lavey – Bendigo Spirit. WNBL champion 2013-14
“Boomers by 3 points and Tiff Mitchell for Grand Final MVP”
Renae Garlepp (Camino) – 2008 Rachael Sporn Medallist
Most points by a player in a grand final (32)
“I’m tipping Melbourne by 5 points and Lindsay Allen to win the Rachael Sporn Medal.”
Steph Reid – Townsville Fire
“My tip is Melbourne to win game 3 and Lindsay Allen grand final MVP.”
Bernie Harrower – 2x WNBL championship coach.
“I think if Melbourne play like they did in Perth with that defensive aggression and hard-nosed effort levels and being in front of their home crowd, I know playing in front of your home crowd in a Grand Final is massive. Lindsay Allen for the Rachael Sporn Medal, she’s been sensational in both games.”
Jade Melbourne – UC Capitals
“I think Melbourne will win because I think the home crowd with get them across the line and they’ll get it done for Guy in his last year as coach. LA for Grand Final MVP.”
Bec Cole – Southside Flyers. 2020 WNBL champion
“Perth. If they can shut down LA, change their pick and roll defence from game 2, I think that can really slow down the Boomers game as a lot of the ball goes through her hands. Marina Mabrey for the Rachael Sporn Medal.”
Abbey Wehrung – Adelaide Lightning
“I think the Boomers will be really disruptive defensively and will lock Perth down in their home stadium. LA for Grand Final MVP.”
