Perth Lynx Star Han Xu Unfazed by Townsville Fire's Physical Play in WNBL Final
Perth Lynx star Han Xu has boldly stated that she will not be distracted or intimidated by the physical tactics of the Townsville Fire as the teams prepare to clash in the WNBL grand final series. The opening game of the best-of-three series is set for Thursday at the Townsville Entertainment Centre, with tensions high following a controversial recent match.
Controversial History Fuels Anticipation
The rivalry between the Lynx and Fire intensified after an incident where Townsville's Alicia Froling struck Xu in the face with an errant elbow during a drive to the basket, leading to an aggressive verbal exchange later in the game. In their December encounter in Queensland, Xu was fouled six times in a Perth victory, but the Fire's aggression was only penalized twice in their January rematch.
"Townsville are physical and it will be a tough game, but it is a final and it will be a very serious game. I'm not scared of anybody," Xu told The West Australian. "I'll provide rim protection. I will try my best to play defence and offence. I'm not scared of anybody."
Xu's Focus on Championship Glory
Standing at 211cm, the Chinese international emphasized her readiness for whatever challenges Townsville presents, prioritizing team success over individual stats. "If she elbows my face, it is an offensive foul. I just hope the referee can see that. But if they don't see it, I don't care - as long as we win the championship," she added.
Xu, who won the WNBL's Defensive Player of the Year award, is determined to end Perth's championship drought dating back to 1992, having already secured two titles in China. She highlighted the importance of unselfish play for championship success. "A championship team happens when everybody wants to get the championship and forgets about themselves," Xu explained. "I want a championship and I don't care if I have a lot of points or a lot of rebounds. I just want the championship. I am focused on helping my teammates to do everything we can to win."
Key Matchup: Xu vs. Froling
The individual battle between Xu and Froling is expected to be pivotal in the grand final series. Froling showcased her form with a career-high 26 points, nine rebounds, and two blocks in Townsville's recent win over Southside. Xu acknowledged Froling's hard-playing style but remained confident. "She plays very hard in her role. She rebounds and always helps her teammates. I'll be ready. I'll guard every person. I don't care who I'm playing against," she stated.
As the series approaches, Xu's unwavering focus and resilience set the stage for an intense showdown, with both teams vying for the WNBL championship title.
