Perth Hold Off Adelaide’s Spirited Comeback in Lightning’s Home Opener

Perth Lynx spoiled Adelaide Lightning’s long-awaited homecoming, holding their nerve in a tense 75–72 win at the South Australia State Basketball Centre on Sunday night.

In their first game under new ownership and branding, the Lightning fought back from 17 points down to briefly hit the front in the final minutes — only for Perth’s experience and composure to see them through.

Brianna Turner, who arrived in Australia just a week earlier, made an immediate impact. The WNBA import starred with 15 points, 10 rebounds and six assists, while former South Australian junior Alex Ciabattoni led all scorers with 23 points.

“Bri fits like someone we’ve been chasing for years,” Perth coach Ryan Petrik said. “She can play, rebound, defend — her basketball IQ is off the charts.”

Adelaide showed remarkable fight after a sluggish opening quarter, inspired by captain Steph Talbot (11 points, 10 rebounds) and new import Sania Feagin (16 points, nine boards). Young guard Tayla Brazel lit up the second quarter with four triples to reignite the home crowd, while NBL1 Central champion Jasmin Fejo added key buckets down the stretch.

“We’ve only got two players back from last season,” said Lightning coach Kerryn Mitchell. “The fight we showed to come back was awesome. There’s so much to build on.”

Perth set the tone early with seven first-quarter blocks and led comfortably until Adelaide’s third-quarter surge turned the contest into a genuine battle. But late baskets from Turner, Ciabattoni and Tegan Graham steadied the Lynx to open their WNBL26 campaign with a road win.

The Lynx return home to face the Sydney Flames on October 26, while Adelaide will look to regroup before Round 2.

Final score: Perth Lynx 75 defeated Adelaide Lightning 72.