Adelaide were looking to return to the winners list, having faced the top four teams in the competition across their last six games, including a challenging recent stretch against some of the league’s strongest line-ups.
The Perth Lynx applied early pressure, disrupting Adelaide’s rhythm with their defensive intensity setting the tone in the opening term, with Perth taking a 20–12 lead at quarter time.
Adelaide responded with improved defensive intent to open the second quarter. Ashlee Strawbridge set the standard by denying Ally Wilson before Sania Feagin forced Han Xu out of a reverse layup attempt and secured the defensive rebound to ignite the Lightning.
At the offensive end, Steph Talbot lifted her output with 10 points for the quarter, providing a spark when the Lightning needed it most. A timely corner three from Ashlee Strawbridge brought Adelaide back within a single point at the five-minute mark, but Perth steadied late in the half, reasserting control to extend the margin and head into the main break with an eight-point lead.
After being limited to just two points in the first half, Sania Feagin came out firing after the break, lifting her impact at both ends of the floor. She created opportunities on offence, applied strong defensive pressure, and put herself firmly on double-double watch as the second half unfolded.
Dallas Loughridge remained composed in the backcourt, directing the offence, creating scoring looks for her teammates, and continuing to apply steady pressure as Adelaide worked to close the gap.
Perth led from the opening tip and built their advantage steadily, stretching the margin to a game-high 19 points. Despite Adelaide’s never-say-die attitude and continued fight, the Lynx were able to close out the contest with a 15-point victory.
The Lightning will now turn their attention to the run home, with their final six games coming against the bottom five teams on the ladder — a stretch that presents an opportunity to build momentum and finish the season strong.
Returning to Adelaide tomorrow, the Lightning will host the Sydney Flames on Tuesday night at the SA State Basketball Centre. Fans can take advantage of the School Holiday Boredom Buster Special, with $32 family passes and $10 tickets available. Don’t miss out — book now and be part of the action!
Final Score Adelaide Lightning 65 – Perth Lynx 80
Lightning Leaders
Dallas Loughridge - 25 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals
Steph Talbot - 14 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals.
Sania Feagin – 11 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals, 3 blocks.
