Australian basketball icon Lauren Jackson has declared the Perth Lynx as her favourites to break a 34-year championship drought and claim the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) title this season.
Perfect Timing After Top Teams Stumble
The bold prediction comes after a dramatic weekend where the league's top three contenders all suffered unexpected losses. The Lynx, currently sitting in third place on the ladder, narrowly lost to the Canberra Capitals by three points. However, that result was softened significantly when their main rivals, the Bendigo Spirit and Townsville Fire, were also defeated in major upsets.
Perth's last championship victory was in 1992, but their form has been spectacular since the arrival of Chinese international centre Han Xu. The team has won seven of its eight matches since she joined the roster, transforming their prospects.
Han Xu: The Game-Changing "Oomph"
Jackson told The West Australian that Xu's presence has made the Lynx the team to beat. "I think they will take the championship," Jackson stated confidently.
She elaborated on the profound impact of the star player, highlighting her all-around game. "They've got such a well-rounded team now. With Han Xu in the middle, her ability to run the floor, keep the pace up, play defence, and shoot is incredible," Jackson explained.
Jackson emphasised that Xu's influence extends beyond her own scoring. "Even if she is not scoring she is drawing so much attention that it is opening up for everyone else. On the nights where she's not scoring 20 and 10 per game, she is actually opening it up for everybody else to take their opportunity to shine."
The legend described Xu as "an incredible added piece" who has provided "that extra bit of oomph that the team needs." Jackson even suggested the fit was uniquely perfect, saying, "I'm not sure she would have slotted into any other team perfectly."
A Complete and Talented Roster
Jackson was also full of praise for the rest of the Lynx lineup, pointing to the depth of talent across the court.
She singled out guard Alex Ciabattoni for her leadership and calming presence. "Alex Ciabattoni has been phenomenal again this year. For a long time she hasn't got the flowers she deserves," Jackson said, noting her impressive step-up this season.
The former Opals star also highlighted the contributions of Australian representatives Alex Wilson, Amy Atwell, and Anneli Maley. "You've got these three massive pieces who are all Australian representatives, they are incredible shooters and can do everything on the floor," Jackson said. "I feel like they've got all of the pieces now. They're not missing anything really."
The Run Home to Glory
The Lynx have seven games remaining in the regular season, giving them a direct path to the top. Their run home includes two crucial matches against ladder-leaders Bendigo and another encounter with Townsville. These head-to-head clashes provide Perth with the perfect opportunity to overtake their rivals and secure a prime position for the finals.
With the endorsement of one of the game's greatest ever players and a squad firing on all cylinders, the Perth Lynx are now firmly in the spotlight as they chase a historic end to their long championship wait.
