Infront of another sell-out crowd the reborn Adelaide Lightning secured their historic first Win at their new home State Basketball Centre defeating the Canberra Capitals 73-65.
With both teams coming off 30+ losses in Round 2 this was always going to be a hard-fought contest full of feeling and pride to close out Indigenous Round.
WNBA Draft pick Sania Feagin started strong, her team accumulating a 17-4 lead halfway thought the first quarter. Feagin used her size to dominate the paint early before showing her versatility shooting the long two when the defence sagged.
Coach Paul Gorris had seen enough, calling a time at the out that saw his team respond immediately, led by Nicole Munger the caps were able to close the gap and get within 1 point of the Lightning before quarter time.
The match ups within the game added to the electric atmosphere, Australian Opal Jade Melbourne, and rising talent Dallas Loughridge going head-to-head throughout the game. Melbourne’s frustration evident and Loughridge finishing the game with 14 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 block.
Jayda Clarke’s cross court vision found Isabelle Brancatisano in the corner to finish the half with a big 3 to close out the half, 41-40.
Holding the Caps to 10 points in the 3rd quarter the defensive pressure and hustle from every Lightning player that hit the floor showed why this team should not be underestimated. Tall Fern teammates Sharne Robati, Ashlee Strawbridge and Ella Tofaeono strength and impact not reflected on the stat sheet.
Teige Morrell came up big for the visitors down the stretch finishing with a game career high 15 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block.
The Lightning remained composed under Captain Steph Talbot (18 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals), while imports Serena Sundell (14 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals) and Feagin showed their value.
Adelaide will get to enjoy their first win for a full week, Round 4 will see them at home again next Sunday, against the Sydney Flames, November 9, from 12.00pm ACDT.
Tickets will be in high demand as the club aims for its 3rd capacity crowd, Memberships and Tickets available here.
