Batkovic poised for one last curtain call

January 15, 2019 | Townsville Fire news

JCU Townsville Fire captain Suzy Batkovic will enjoy one final curtain call in the Chemist Warehouse WNBL on Saturday night.

Having been sidelined with a neck injury since round eight, Batkovic is a confirmed starter to face-off against the Sydney Uni Flames at Townsville Stadium in her 346th and final game in the competition.

Since debuting in 1996, Batkovic has enjoyed arguably the most decorated career in WNBL history, capturing five titles including three with the Fire, six MVP awards, seven All*Star Five selections and the 2017/18 Rachael Sporn Medal.

Earlier this season, Batkovic also surpassed Sporn as the league’s greatest ever scorer, while she presently sits second in rebounds and third in blocks but still has time to advance in the latter category.

“I haven’t trained for six weeks so I need an oxygen tank,” Batkovic joked earlier today.

“Hopefully there’s no flare up and I can get out there and play some solid minutes.

“It won’t be my normal game or a 40 minute game from me, but to be out there in spurts will be great.

“Obviously it’s my last game but I’m really excited to be out on the floor, it’s been a while since I’ve played.

“How it’s happened is not the way I wanted it to go but that’s life.”

To celebrate the game, the Fire has partnered with Zarraffa’s Townsville for their annual #DadsAndDaughters fixture.

In addition to seeing Batkovic’s curtain call, Fire fans will be able to redeem a complimentary coffee upon presentation of their game ticket at any Zarraffa’s Townsville store on Sunday, January 20.

The reigning WNBL champions also have a raft of giveaways planned including a signing station with Batkovic to end the season.

Tip-off against the Flames is at 7pm with tickets available through The Ticket Shop.

Click here to pre-purchase tickets to the Fire and the Flames.