It’s GAME DAY
The JCU Townsville Fire will play their first game for the WNBL21 Season today, on the road against the Adelaide Lightning.
Townsville’s transitioned from pre-season training to fine tuning for Adelaide ahead of its WNBL opener. The Lightning look to be a championship contender on paper, having assembled a strong roster. Fire Head Coach Shannon Seebohm has done his homework on the home side but insists the visitors have spent more time focusing on themselves.
“They’ve got four current WNBA players and an Australian Opal in their starting line up, so we understand the task at hand. We’ve done a fair bit of scouting on their strengths weakness and that type of thing, but I think particularly in this early stage of the season it’s more about us executing the way that we need to, to be able to win.”
The Fire’s WNBA star import Monique Billings arrived in town at the start of the week. The American is adamant she can make an immediate impact despite not being up to speed on all the structures.
“Energy and effort, that is just what I can bring every single night, that’s my gift. Coming on the court and being that example for my teammates.”
Seebohm couldn’t be happier with the import’s attitude, adjusting to Townsville’s tactics.
“She’s come in with a great mindset. She’s bought into our culture straight away, she asks a lot of good questions and she’s shown that she’s a very genuine person as well and cares about her teammates.”
He’s placed high expectations on her and the power forward’s determined to meet them.
“He has some really big goals that I’m excited to fulfill, he wants me to lead rebounds and blocks this season. I’m big on accountability so I know that he and the team are going to hold me accountable to those goals.”
The Fire will be chasing successive victories over Adelaide after winning the only encounter between the two sides during last seasons’ hub competition. The game will be broadcast on Fox Sports and ABC. Tip-off is at 4.00pm Queensland time.
Expect a fierce, physical and athletic game from these two teams.
Game Details
Adelaide Lightning vs JCU Townsville Fire
Saturday 11 December 2021
Tip off : 4:00pm (QLD time)
Watch: LIVE on ABC & Kayo