Game preview: Boomers v Lightning
Semi-Finals Series: Game One
Thursday 24th March 7:00pm AEDT
The Deakin Melbourne Boomers come up against the Adelaide Lightning in the first game of the Semi-Finals series this Thursday, 24th March, 7:00pm (AEDT) at the Boom Box.
It’s first versus fourth on the ladder. The Boomers took the 2021/22 minor premiership last week, as Perth Lynx fell short against Townsville Fire, and Melbourne will be looking to continue their hot end to the regular season into the semi-finals.
The first time these two met this season, Adelaide took the win, 65 – 53, but the Boomers got a win back recently in Round 14 away from home, running away in the final term, 72 – 49.
Cayla George and Ezi Magbegor lit up the court, as George finished with a double-double (12 points and 13 rebounds) in her 300th WNBL game. Magbegor ended with a game-high, 23 points and 13 rebounds.
The last match-up was a game of matched pressure and momentum, up until the final term. The Boomers pulled away on the scoreboard by to capitalising on secondary opportunities whilst maintaining high-intensity and pressure at both ends of the court.
Lightning are coming off of a close loss against Southside Flyers in their last regular season game, 79 – 87. Alanna Smith is looking in form heading into the semi-final series, ending the last game of the season with a double-double, and a game high 28 points and 11 rebounds.
Stephanie Talbot is also looking fired up as she finished with eight rebounds and 11 assists against the Flyers. Talbot ended the last match-up against the Boomers with 10 points, six rebounds and three assists, proving to be a dangerous asset for the Lightning side.
Boomers are entering the semi-finals series with a triple figured win against the UC Capitals, 107 – 52. Boomer’s captain, George, once again showed her dominance across the breadth of the court, finishing with 100% field goal accuracy and a game-high 23 points, eight rebounds and five assists.
The whole team showed their form for all four quarters last game, working in unison and at high intensity. The Boomers capitalised on fast break and second chance opportunities whilst bringing high pressure in defence, ultimately overpowering the UC Capitals, and earning them the victory.
The Boomers will want to keep their hot winning streak momentum by continuing their fast paced and pressurised game against the Lightning. Maintaining offensive communication, explosive offensive plays, defensive pressure and converting on second chance opportunities will be crucial.
We will need to bring all we’ve got to this game to continue to play all four terms as last week – with determination, laser focus, unison and energy – and take home the win.
Melbourne are excited to host the first game of the semi-finals series and will be looking to the stands for support. We hope to see you all there!
Game details:
Deakin Melbourne Boomers vs Adelaide Lightning
Melbourne Sports Centre, Parkville
Thursday 23rd March
7:00pm AEDT / 6:00pm AEST
Purchase tickets HERE
Watch LIVE + FREE on ABC, and Kayo
Team Lists: Boomers, Lightning