Townsville Torch Flames on the back of Billings Brilliance

A Monique Billings blitz inspired Townsville to a comfortable win in round ten of the WNBL. The American amassed 23 of her 25 points before the first half. She showed an array of skills, scoring from her own steal, and also outleaping several Sydney players to tip in a missed shot. The power forward’s masterclass under the rim rattled the Flames. Fortunately for them, the import played just three minutes after the main break, with the Fire in control of the contest. Billings was happy with her numbers, which would have been higher, had she remained on the court.

“Offensively I just need to do what I can for my team I know that I’m a vet I’m a leader on this team. We got into a flow and a rhythm and that’s when I’m at my best and I think we’re all at our best.”

Billings had high praise for pocket rocket Steph Reid. The point guard made the most of her promotion to Townsville’s starting line up, finishing as the game’s second highest scorer on 15 points, to go along with four assists.

“Toughest guard I’ve ever played with I wish I could take her with me to the WNBA and I mean that. She pushes me and encourages me and does that for everyone on the team, she’s a great leader on and off the court.”

The visitors trailed at quarter time before flexing their muscles to secure a comprehensive 86-66 victory. Everyone on Townsville’s team sheet slotted at least one bucket. Fire coach Shannon Seebohm was able to give fringe players some healthy minutes.

“You know I definitely think we’ve got players that can step up it’s just been hard with our rotations to get them consistent time.”

The Fire are be back in action the Saturday February 12, when they’ll take on the Flames again. The teams will face off at the Fire Pit Tickets for the clash are on sale now.