Nicholson Shines as Flames Torch Venom for First Win

Sydney Flames opened their WNBL26 campaign with purpose, outclassing the Geelong Venom 85–77 on Saturday night — but the result was overshadowed by a nasty injury to Geelong import Alissa Pili.

The Los Angeles Sparks forward made an impressive start to her WNBL debut before rolling her ankle midway through the second quarter at Geelong Arena. She had to be helped from the floor and did not return. The Venom’s injury worries deepened later when point guard Lilly Rotunno also limped off with an ankle issue in the final minutes.

“Alissa is big-time — an amazing athlete and one of the most versatile players I’ve coached,” Venom coach Chris Lucas said. “It didn’t look great, so we’ll have to wait and see, but we’ll likely be without her for a few weeks.”

On the court, Sydney delivered a composed and confident performance built on sharp ball movement and relentless defence. Veteran guard Leilani Nicholson was outstanding in her WNBL return, dropping 27 points in her first game back since giving birth in April.

Keely Froling was rock-solid with a 15-point, 12-rebound double-double against her former side, while Unique Thompson’s poise in the fourth quarter helped the Flames close out their first win of the season.

“I thought we put our stamp on the game,” Flames coach Guy Molloy said. “The girls have worked hard for weeks to reconnect and build chemistry, and that really showed tonight.”

Geelong battled bravely after a poor first half, trimming what had been an 18-point margin. Mackenzie Holmes (20 points, 11 rebounds) and Alex Sharp (14 points, 10 rebounds) both notched double-doubles, leading the late fightback.

Nicholson took control in the second term, helping Sydney race to a 48–30 halftime lead. The Venom responded with energy in the third, but Sydney’s composure and execution held firm under pressure.

The Flames will look to build on their strong start next week, while the Venom await news on Pili’s injury before regrouping for Round 2.

Final score: Sydney Flames 85 defeated Geelong Venom 77.