UPDATE: The Geelong Venom have made headlines by becoming the first team to break the 100-point mark this WNBL season, dramatically defeating the Adelaide Lightning 110-76 at Geelong Arena on October 14, 2023. In a stunning display of skill, Jazmin Shelley and Mackenzie Holmes led the charge, both delivering standout performances that turned the tide in the second quarter.
After falling behind by as much as 13 points, the Venom roared back to secure their first win of the season. Holmes shined with an impressive 33 points and six rebounds, while Shelley contributed 25 points and five assists. This victory is particularly noteworthy as the team played without their WNBA import Alissa Pili, sidelined for at least five weeks due to an ankle injury.
Geelong coach Chris Lucas expressed his pride in the team’s resilience, stating,
“I make sure that players feel they can play a number of roles… I’m just pleased for the girls, and we’re getting better.”
The Venom showed remarkable adaptability, overcoming early undisciplined play to unleash a stunning 20-point run that shifted momentum in their favor.
As the game progressed, Mackenzie Clinch Hoycard delivered a highlight-reel moment, draining a three-pointer just before the shot clock expired, further solidifying Geelong’s control over the match. Despite the loss, Adelaide’s Steph Talbot and Dallas Loughridge put forth commendable efforts, scoring 16 points and 18 points, respectively.
Adelaide coach Kerryn Mitchell commented on the challenges faced, noting,
“We weren’t terrible tonight… It’s pretty hard to beat a team that shoots at 65 percent from three.”
The Lightning struggled to maintain offensive rhythm and defensive stops, particularly during key moments when Talbot was on the bench.
The game began with both teams trading baskets, leading to a close first quarter. However, the Lightning managed to pull ahead with a nine-point lead by the end of the first quarter. Loughridge’s contributions helped extend the lead further, but the Venom’s second-quarter surge changed the narrative completely, allowing them to finish the half with a 48-38 advantage.
In the third quarter, Shelley’s back-to-back three-pointers expanded the Venom’s lead to 20 points, effectively sealing the fate of the Lightning. The final quarter saw Geelong maintaining their grip on the game, ultimately smashing through the century barrier comfortably.
As the WNBL season progresses, all eyes will be on the Venom to see if they can build on this momentum and continue their ascent in the league standings. The Lightning, now still seeking their first win, will need to regroup and address their offensive stagnation as they prepare for their next challenge.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the WNBL season heats up!
