MANSFIELD’S MILESTONE
She may be a fresh face at the Fire but Lauren Mansfield is not new to the WNBL, in fact she’ll make her 200th appearance on Wednesday night. As a player who pushes to put the team first, Townsville’s co-captain won’t make a big deal out of her milestone prior to playing Perth, despite recognising it’s an excellent achievement.
“Pretty crazy, obviously blessed to be in the league for so long so yeah it’s pretty cool.”
The 34 year old should get a warm reception in the West having worn the Lynx jersey previously. The guard has also played for the UC Capitals, Sydney Flames, South East Queensland Stars and Adelaide Lightning, during a decade spent in the league. The latter being where her incredible journey started.
“I remember my first game, I had just come back from college. Yeah, I was so nervous but I feel like I’ve come along way both as a person and player as well. Just having all those experiences, playing with different teammates, and I’ve really enjoyed the journey.
Mansfield made a name for herself as a sharp shooting floor general who honed her playmaker abilities as she racked up the games and seasons. She signed for Townsville as veteran with credentials key to helping the Fire’s youthful playing group grow. The stalwart possesses poise, experience and leadership skills developed during 10 campaigns controlling various offences across the league.
“Yeah I feel like that’s an important role just bringing that claiming presence into the huddles, kind of directing and talking through plays we need to run and then also getting around the younger players and encouraging them. But I’m loving it, I’m loving playing with new teammates as well, it’s nice to come and play with people I haven’t played with before and I’m really enjoying it.
Mansfield’s minutes were limited against Adelaide on Saturday night, returning to the court after sitting out the Fire’s losses to Bendigo and Canberra with foot injury. It hasn’t healed yet but you don’t rack up the amount of games she has without enduring a little pain along the way.
“I’m dealing with inflammation in my foot so just trying to kind of stay off it a little bit, trying to get it feeling a little bit better but yeah nice to be back on court.”
You can watch Lauren’s special occasion on ESPN on the 9now App. Tip off in Perth will be at 8.30pm Queensland time.