Batkovic continues hot form
JCU Townsville Fire captain Suzy Batkovic has been named in the WNBL Team of the Week for a fourth in 2017/18.
During another dominant weekend, Batkovic averaged 22.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, three assists, 1.5 steals and one block per game as the Fire split their results with Dandenong and Sydney Uni.
The Round 9 Team of the Week featuring @MelbourneBoomer, @JaycoRangers, @TownsvilleFire and two @PerthLynx players! #WNBL18 pic.twitter.com/vmb8hy2yTC
— WNBL (@WNBL) December 5, 2017
Having entered the final month of the regular season, the five-time WNBL MVP said it was crucial for the Fire to find their best form.
“Obviously we were a little bit deflated after the Dandenong game,” Batkovic said earlier today.
“We definitely came out full of energy against Sydney and we needed to get over the line.
“You can’t come in flat at all, especially with the way the season is this year. If you drop (your effort) a little bit, you’re going to be in big trouble and you’re going to come away with some losses.
“We’ve got to make sure that we’re up every game and it starts in warm-up.”
The challengers continue to line up for the Fire starting with Adelaide on Thursday before a road trip to Bendigo on Saturday.
The @JCU Townsville Fire return to the floor on Thursday night in conjunction with the @AustralianArmy to host our Hoops For Troops game! See the Fire in action against Adelaide in our limited edition camouflage uniforms —> https://t.co/NHBAdMwULN #FireUpTownsville pic.twitter.com/dOukYFTPAV
— Townsville Fire (@TownsvilleFire) December 3, 2017
With just one game separating the Fire (9-5) in second place and the Lightning (8-6) in fifth, Batkovic said it was imperative that they show no respite on Thursday, despite two convincing wins earlier in the season.
“Adelaide are a quality team,” Batkovic said.
“We have beaten them twice but it doesn’t mean they’re just going to roll over and let us win.
“It’s going to be a tough grind, but I’m sure Chris (Lucas) will have them ready for us – and will have us scouted and will be doing everything they can – we’ve just got to counter it.
“I don’t think it is going to be a walk in the park.”
The Fire host the Lightning from 7pm on Thursday night at Townsville Stadium.
Click here to pre-purchase tickets to the Fire and the Lightning.
WNBL Team of the Week Awardees
Round 1 – Cayla George
Round 2 – Suzy Batkovic
Round 4 – Suzy Batkovic
Round 7 – Suzy Batkovic and Micaela Cocks
Round 9 – Suzy Batkovic