Game Preview: Boomers v Lightning
Sunday 13th March 3:30pm AEDT
The Deakin Melbourne Boomers are on the road again to face fellow finals contenders, Adelaide Lightning, in Adelaide this afternoon.
The Boomers currently sit third on the ladder with a 66% winning average, closely followed by Adelaide (64%).
The Boomers and Lightning have clashed once previously this season, with the Lightning walking away with an eight-point victory on their home court. The last time they met, both teams were evenly matched, although, the Lightning capitalised on their scoring opportunities and took the lead in the final term.
The Lightning are coming off a two-loss streak against Perth Lynx (second on the ladder at 69%) and will be hungry for a win in front of their home crowd.
Alana Smith is looking dangerous as she is averaging 17.2 points a game this season and had a game high of 21 points the last time these two teams faced off. Stephanie Talbot is also looking fired up, as she ended the last clash against Lynx with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists.
The Boomers are coming into this game with a close loss last week as they struggled from the perimeter and misfired on numerous occasions.
Despite the loss, Lindsay Allen and Ezi Magbegor had solid performances, with a shared 32 points. Whilst Tiffany Mitchell ended with a double-double, 10 points and 11 rebounds. These three will be looking to continue their dominance into this week’s match-up.
The Boomers will need to capitalise on their shooting and offensive rebound opportunities, as they look to increase their movement and provide inside looks for their talls.
The team struggled from the perimeter last week, hitting only three of 25 three-point field goals (12%), and will need to find their form this week to bring scoreboard pressure against Adelaide Lightning.
The Boomers will need to control the pace of the game and prepare for fast defensive transitions as the Lightning bring a fast game style to the league, as well as looking equally dangerous inside and outside the paint.
The team will also be looking to bring the heat and get the job done for another significant reason today – Boomers’ Captain, Cayla George will celebrate an incredible milestone, playing in her 300th WNBL game (formal celebrations will take place at our next game, at home in Parkville).
Will the Boomers be able to control the pace and increase their shooting accuracy, walking away with a win on the road? This will be a must-see battle between two championship contenders!
The Boomers are also supporting an important cause this round, supporting the Southside Flyers in raising important funds and awareness to support Lifeline Australia via the Flyers Assist Program.
One Assist = $100
Everyone is invited to donate and be part of the Flyers Assist Program to support Lifeline.
Click Here to donate.
Game details:
Deakin Melbourne Boomers v Adelaide Lightning
The Lights Community and Sports Centre (Adelaide)
Sunday 13th March
3:30pm AEDT / 3:00pm AEST
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