16
Nov
4 min read
Whitcomb fires Spirit to 5-0 WNBL start
Asha Nightingale and Marianna Tolo of the Spirit celebrate victory after the round three WNBL match between Townsville Fire and Bendigo Spirit at Townsville Entertainment Centre, on November 16, 2024, in Townsville, Australia. Photo: Albert Perez/Getty Images
Spirit dominance continues with 84-76 win over Townsville in WNBL clash
- Spirit remain undefeated at 5-0 after toppling Fire
- Sami Whitcomb stars again with 30 points
- Upcoming clash against reigning champs Southside Flyers
The Bendigo Spirit extended their unbeaten run to start the WNBL season, defeating the Townsville Fire 84-76 in a top-of-the-table clash on November 16, 2024.
Whitcomb shines as Spirit surge ahead
Former Fire star Sami Whitcomb continued her stellar form for her new club, pouring in a game-high 30 points to go along with 6 rebounds and 7 assists. The Spirit raced out to an early lead behind Whitcomb's 11 first-quarter points before withstanding a Fire comeback.
"We knew it would be a tough battle against a quality team like Townsville," said Whitcomb. "But we stuck to our game plan and made the big plays when it counted."
The Spirit's depth was on full display, with Abbey Wehrung providing a crucial spark off the bench with 15 points. Marianna Tolo battled foul trouble but still made key contributions down the stretch as Bendigo held on for the 8-point victory.
Fire battle but fall short
Despite the loss, Townsville (3-2) showed why they remain a championship contender. Lauren Cox recorded a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds, while Zia Cooke led the Fire with 18 points.
"We had our chances but just couldn't get over the hump in the end," said Fire coach Shannon Seebohm.
"Credit to Bendigo - they made the clutch shots when it mattered most."
Spirit eye clash with reigning champs
The win solidifies Bendigo's place atop the WNBL ladder as the only undefeated team.
They'll face another stern test next Sunday when they host defending champions Southside Flyers.
"We're playing with a lot of confidence right now," said Spirit coach Kennedy Kereama.
"But we know we'll need to be at our best against a talented Flyers squad."
With their perfect record intact and Whitcomb in MVP form, the Spirit have established themselves as the team to beat early in the WNBL season.
Their clash with Southside looms as a potential Grand Final preview and another chance to prove their championship credentials.
