A STARRING performance from Cayla George has helped the Sydney Flames claim an 11-point win over the Perth Lynx in Round 6 of the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) over the weekend.

Two top four contenders locked horns at Quaycentre on Saturday night in an exciting clash given the recent form of the sides. The Lynx had won three on the trot leading into the round, before dropping their clash against the unbeaten Bendigo Spirit a couple of days prior. On the other hand, the Flames had won just two of their six games, but were coming off a win in their most recent outing, and had home court advantage.

The Flames got on top early, jumping out to a double-digit lead in the first half and putting the Lynx on the back foot. Although Perth clawed itself back into the contest as the game rolled on, the home side still found a way to extend the lead back out around 10. The start of the fourth quarter proved crucial, as the Flames broke out to a match-winning lead en route to an 11-point triumph, with the upset proving crucial in the context of the match.

In a game that proved to be a milestone for one of the WNBL’s best, George was the hero for the Flames, putting forth a vintage performance that ultimately proved the difference.

Sydney Flames (86) def. Perth Lynx (75)

Cayla George – 28 points, 14 rebounds, one assist, one steal, three blocks

It was a big night for George, who not only led her side to victory with a stat-stuffing performance, but also recorded her 5000th point in the WNBL to further establish herself as a modern great of the game and a star of the competition.

In the win over the Lynx, George was everywhere, posting a game-high 28 points and sourcing baskets from a plethora of scoring methods. Whether it was standing in the corner and waiting for the dish-out pass, or breaking down her opponent off the dribble to finish at the basket, the defence had no answer for her ability to find the bottom of the net.

George was also a factor on the glass, pulling down 14 boards for the game to record a massive double-double. The Opal was relentless in her pursuit of the loose ball, and often started scoring chains by getting first hands on the ball.

Defensively, George has always had a knack for making an impact, and she was at her best with three blocks against Perth. Although not the tallest player, she used her balance to stay in front of her direct opponent on the drive and swat attempted lay-ups.

It was a signature display on the scoring and rebounding fronts from George, who helped the Flames to their second win in a row with an excellent performance.