Fire's Abbey Ellis scorches Flames in 33-point blowout

• Fire's Abbey Ellis' 16-point performance secures Quaycentre victory
• Fire vs Perth on for second spot to finish season
• Flames were without Cayla George and Shaniece Swain

Abbey Ellis led the Fire with 16 points, while Alexandra Fowler contributed a well-rounded performance as Townsville (15-5) dismantled a short-handed Sydney Flames (8-12) 83-50 at Quaycentre (Game Centre).

Key Details

• Result: Townsville Fire 83 def. Sydney Flames 50
• When: February 12, 2025
• Where: Quaycentre, Sydney
• Standings: Townsville Fire (#2) | Sydney Flames (#4) (League Ladder)

By the Numbers

• Abbey Ellis (Townsville Fire) starred with 16 points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 25 minutes.
• Celeste Taylor (Sydney Flames) scored 14 points, and had three rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and two steals in 32 minutes.

What Happened

The Townsville Fire asserted their dominance early, setting the tone for what would become a one-sided affair against the Sydney Flames.

The visitors established a comfortable lead in the first quarter, which they continued to build upon throughout the game. By halftime, the Fire had already opened up a substantial gap, leaving the shorthanded Flames struggling to keep pace.

As the second half unfolded, Townsville's superiority became even more apparent. Their offensive efficiency, coupled with a stifling defence, saw them extend their lead further. The Fire's ability to control the tempo of the game and execute their game plan left the Flames with few answers.

Sydney's attempts to mount a comeback were consistently thwarted by Townsville's cohesive team play and individual brilliance.

Abbey Ellis' performance was instrumental in the Fire's victory. Her 16 points came on an impressive 60% shooting from the field, including a perfect 2-from-2 from behind the arc. Ellis' ability to score efficiently while also contributing in other areas exemplified the balanced attack that Townsville brought to Sydney.

Alexandra Fowler's all-round game was equally crucial, as she filled the stat sheet with 13 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and three steals.

For the Flames, Celeste Taylor had 14 points, but her individual performance wasn't enough to overcome the Fire's team-oriented approach. Sydney's struggles were evident in their shooting percentages, managing just 29.4% from the field compared to Townsville's impressive 48.1%.

The disparity in three-point shooting was particularly stark, with the Fire connecting on eight of their 26 attempts (30.8%), while the Flames made only 4-from-17 (23.5%).

Townsville's dominance extended to the boards, where they out-rebounded Sydney 44-22. This commanding presence on the glass limited the Flames' second-chance opportunities and allowed the Fire to control the pace of the game. The visitors also showcased their depth, with six players scoring eight or more points, highlighting the team's balanced offensive approach.

The Fire's defensive prowess was on full display, forcing 17 turnovers from the Flames while committing only 18 themselves. This turnover differential, combined with Townsville's superior shooting and rebounding, created a perfect storm that Sydney simply couldn't weather.

With this victory, the Townsville Fire (15-5) sets up a showdown for second place in the last game of the WNBL season on Sunday against the Perth Lynx.

Sydney Flames (8-12) remain in fourth place and can't be dislodged as they made the WNBL finals for the first time in seven years.

Next Up

• Townsville Fire faces Perth Lynx in Townsville on Sunday, February 16, 2025 (Game Centre)
• Sydney Flames face Southside Flyers in Sydney on Saturday, February 15, 2025 (Game Centre)