THE WRAP- ROUND 9

January 9, 2023 | WNBL news

Round 9 was one of the biggest rounds we’ve had so far in the Cygnett WNBL! So many key matchups, with three top of the table clashes resulting in some movement on the ladder.

Flyers on fire

The Southside Flyers made a statement to the rest of the competition this week with two huge wins. The Flyers got their first win of the round over cross-town rivals, Melbourne Boomers, securing the Michele Timms Cup, and breaking the Boomers’ eight-game win streak.

It was also a career night for Southside star, Sara Blicavs who hit a massive career-high 41 points! Blicavs shot at 88 per cent from the field with an outstanding 6/6 from the three-point line, as well as five rebounds and two steals to cap off an amazing night for the Opal.

Southside got their second big win of the round with a dominant performance over Bendigo on Friday night. The Flyers hit a massive 118 points shooting at 56 per cent, with seven players finishing in double figures. Kayla Thornton and Maddy Rocci were amongst the best for Southside, scoring 23 and 21 points respectively. Southside now move into second position on the ladder.

Lightning strikes with a win

Adelaide upset the Fire with a dominant display on Thursday night. Izzy Borlase added another incredible performance to her name, with the rookie top scoring for the night with 23 points.

Steph Talbot was in the zone for the Lightning and playing like the ultimate team player. The Opal finished on a double-double that consisted of 11 rebounds and 10 assists!

Scherf’s red-hot first half

Lauren Scherf continued her good form this season in Perth’s win over Sydney Flames. Scherf got off to a flying start with a massive 27-point first half performance, including a buzzer beating 3-pointer.

Scherf eventually finished the game with a double-double of 33 points and 14 rebounds, securing a place in this week’s Team of the Week.

T. Hawk swoops

Tianna Hawkins was a weapon in Round 9. Averaging a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds per game against Adelaide and UC Capitals. After a loss against the Lightning, the Fire needed a win to hold their fourth position out of reach for another week. Hawkins joined Lauren Nicholson and Steph Reid in the best for the Fire.

Boomers hold on to top spot

After a loss to Southside, the Boomers were keen to bounce back with a win on the road against Bendigo. Bounce back they did, going 56 per cent from the 3-point line and holding off the Spirit in a tight contest. Kristy Wallace had a big weekend for the Boomers, averaging 20.5 points and five assists per game in the clashes against Southside and Bendigo.

Player of the Week

Sara Blicavs (STH) – 41pts at 88%, 5rebs vs MEL