Flames open WNBL25 season with win over Capitals
The Sydney Flames opened their WNBL25 season in winning fashion on Sunday, defeating the UC Capitals 102-85 at Qudos Bank Arena.
This was the first time the club has chalked up an opening round win since 2014-15, a side the returning Mikaela Ruef was also a part of.
Match summary
In her Flames return match, Mikaela Ruef opened the scoring with two triples for Sydney, which was quickly followed by two efforts by Shaneice Swain, as the hosts raced out to a 12-3 lead. A quick lay-up by Celeste Taylor forced the visitors into a time-out, as the score ballooned to 14-3. Ruef’s hot shooting continued as the harbour city side led by 11. The barrage from downtown continued in the first, thanks to Cayla George and Sherrie Calleia, as Guy Molloy’s side led 35-21 at the first change.
WE’RE BRINGIN’ THE HEAT 🔥
Keep watching our season-opener against the UC Capitals at Qudos Bank Arena live on 9GO! #BringTheHeat pic.twitter.com/7m2xoXEcly
— Sydney Flames (@TheSydneyFlames) November 3, 2024
The Caps hit back with an 8-4 run to open the term, powered by a pair of Nicole Munger triples. Swain and George settled proceedings for the hosts with some timely scores. Effort plays by Carla Pitman and Ruef kept the Flames’ lead in double-digits. In her first WNBL game, Bonnie Deas brought plenty of energy and aggression on the ring, leading to for first half points. A late and-one by Ruef gave Sydney a 15-point lead at the main break.
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Ruef got the hosts started in the third with a pair of two-point buckets. This was followed by lay-ups from George and Ruef, created by the strong defence by Isabella Brancatisano. Pitman and US import Yemiyah Morris added baskets late in the piece, which despite the best efforts of Jade Melbourne, saw the hosts lead 81-62 at the final change.
UC scored six of the first eight points of the term, to stay within touch of the Flames. But captain George was making an impact on both ends of the floor, to help the Flames’ scoreboard ticking over. A crafty spin cycle by Swain brought the Flames fans to their feet before Reuf landed another triple – which was cancelled out by two Munger triples. But a settling three by George and scores by Brancatisano sealed Sydney’s big 17-point win.
Where the match was decided
Sydney secured the win on the back of statistical victories in field goal percentage (53-40), rebounds (43-30), assists (30) and points in the paint (46-36).
Key moment
An explosive 35-21 opening quarter by Guy Molloy’s side laid the platform for the Flames’ win.
Players of the game
George led the way for the Flames with 23 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, two steals and two blocks.
The skipper was supported was the returning Ruef (25 points, 10 boards, five dimes and two steals) and Swain (15 points, nine assists, three rebounds, two steals and one board).
Watch Cayla George and Guy Molloy’s post-game press conference via Sydney Flames’ YouTube channel above. While you’re there, be sure to hit subscribe, to ensure you never miss out on any of our great videos.
What’s next
The unbeaten Flames now head to Melbourne for a round two clash with the Southside Flyers on Saturday, November 9 – with the match broadcast live on 9GO! From 5pm.
The Hoops Capital side will then return to the harbour city for their first game at Quaycentre for WNBL, hosting Bendigo from 7pm – with tickets still available here.