Perth Lynx WNBL Profile: Five things you need to know

The Perth Lynx is a prominent team in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) and represents the city of Perth, Western Australia. Known for their tenacity, talent, and commitment to excellence, the Lynx have established themselves as a major force in Australian women’s basketball. With a history of competitive success, high-profile players, and a passionate fanbase, the Perth Lynx continue to make their mark on the WNBL.

Early years and formation

The Perth Lynx was originally founded as the Perth Breakers in 1988. As one of the younger franchises in the WNBL, the Breakers struggled initially to make a significant impact in the league. However, in 2001, the team rebranded as the Perth Lynx, with the new name signifying a fresh start and a revitalised commitment to success. Over the years, the Lynx have evolved into a competitive team with a focus on building a strong, sustainable basketball culture in Western Australia.

Despite their early struggles, the Perth Lynx has steadily improved their performance, becoming a regular playoff contender in the WNBL. Their resilience and persistence have paid off as they continue to be a force in Australian women's basketball.

Championship success in the 1990s

One of the key moments in the Perth Lynx's history occurred during the 1992 WNBL season, when the team (then known as the Perth Breakers) won their first and only WNBL championship. The title victory was a significant achievement for the club, marking them as one of the elite teams in the league at the time. While championship success has been elusive since then, the Lynx have remained highly competitive, consistently challenging for finals positions and building a strong team culture.

Recent success and rebuilds

In recent years, the Perth Lynx have experienced a resurgence in the WNBL, with several deep playoff runs and Grand Final appearances. The 2015-2016 season saw the Lynx reach the WNBL Grand Final for the first time in many years, a significant accomplishment under the leadership of coach Andy Stewart. Though falling short in the final series, the season marked a turning point for the club, solidifying their place among the league's top teams.

In the 2021-2022 WNBL season, the Lynx made another Grand Final appearance, showcasing its consistency and ability to compete with the best teams in the league. While they have yet to add another championship trophy to their collection, the Lynx remain a formidable force in the WNBL, thanks to strong recruiting, player development, and a relentless competitive spirit.

Key players and team leaders

The Perth Lynx has been home to many talented players over the years, including both Australian stars and international imports. These players have been instrumental in the team’s continued success and have helped the Lynx become a perennial playoff contender. One of the standout players in Perth Lynx history is Sami Whitcomb, an Australian-American guard known for her scoring ability, leadership, and work ethic. Whitcomb has been a pivotal figure for the Lynx, helping to lead the team to multiple finals appearances. Her time with the Lynx has also coincided with her success in the WNBA, where she has played for the Seattle Storm and won multiple championships. Whitcomb’s impact on the Lynx has been immense, both on and off the court, and she remains a fan favorite. Another key player for the Perth Lynx has been Kayla Steindl, a versatile forward who has been a consistent presence for the team. Steindl's ability to contribute on both ends of the floor has made her an essential part of the Lynx’s success. Her leadership and experience have been crucial in guiding the younger players and maintaining the team’s competitive edge. In the 2021-2022 season, the Lynx signed Jackie Young, a star guard from the WNBA. Young's addition to the team was a game-changer, as her scoring, athleticism, and defensive prowess helped the Lynx reach the WNBL Grand Final. Her time in Perth was short, but she left a lasting impact on the team and the league.

Home venue and fan base

The Perth Lynx play home games at the Bendat Basketball Centre, a modern facility located in Floreat, Perth. The venue provides an exciting atmosphere for fans and players alike, with a strong home-court advantage due to the enthusiastic support from the Lynx’s dedicated fanbase.

The team enjoys solid community support, with fans from across Western Australia coming out to support the Lynx. The fanbase, known for their loyalty and passion, is an integral part of the team’s identity, creating a vibrant game-day atmosphere at the Bendat Basketball Centre. The Perth Lynx also engage with the community through clinics, events, and outreach programs aimed at promoting basketball in the region and encouraging young talent.

Five Fast Facts about Perth Lynx

1. Founded in 1988: The Perth Lynx is originally established as the Perth Breakers in 1988 and rebranded as the Lynx in 2001.
2. WNBL Champions in 1992: The team won its first and only WNBL championship in 1992 under the Perth Breakers banner.
3. Sami Whitcomb’s Star Power: Sami Whitcomb, a key player for the Lynx, has also enjoyed success in the WNBA, winning championships with the Seattle Storm.
4. Home Venue: The Perth Lynx play their home games at the Bendat Basketball Centre, a state-of-the-art facility in Perth, Western Australia.
5. Recent Grand Final Appearances: The Lynx made the WNBL Grand Final in both 2015-2016 and 2021-2022, reaffirming their status as a top contender in the league.

Youth development and community engagement

The Perth Lynx is committed to growing the game of basketball in Western Australia through community engagement and youth development programs. The team runs clinics, camps, and school programs aimed at fostering the next generation of basketball talent in the region. These initiatives not only help develop young players but also build strong ties between the team and the local community.

The Lynx’s involvement in community activities and grassroots basketball ensures that the sport continues to thrive in Western Australia. By providing young athletes with access to elite-level players and coaches, the Lynx are helping to inspire the next wave of women’s basketball stars.

Conclusion

The Perth Lynx has built a strong legacy in the WNBL through their commitment to excellence, resilience, and community involvement. From their early days as the Perth Breakers to their recent resurgence as one of the league’s top teams, the Lynx has proven that it is a formidable force in Australian women’s basketball. With a championship in 1992, multiple Grand Final appearances, and a history of attracting top-tier talent like Sami Whitcomb and Jackie Young, the Lynx continues to be a key player in the WNBL.

As they look toward the future, the Perth Lynx remain focused on building a winning culture, engaging with its community, and developing young talent to ensure it stays competitive at the highest level for years to come.