THE WNBL season is getting closer each day, and the preparations of each team are starting to ramp up as the pre-season reaches the pointy end. In our player spotlight series, we take a look at the starting lineup of each team and what each player will bring to the table. With plenty of exciting player movements around the league, there are set to be some enthralling dynamics across the league. The first team on the agenda is the Perth Lynx, who made headlines across the WNBL with their ability to bring in talented players both domestically and internationally.

The Lynx made headlines with their signing of WNBA number one draft pick Jackie Young, but their first signing of the offseason carries just as much importance. The team was able to secure the services of WNBA guard Marina Mabrey of the Dallas Wings.

Mabrey is a notoriously skilled shooter, and will bring her offensive talent to Australia’s western shores for the upcoming 2021/22 WNBL season. The team will look to combine Young and Mabrey to combine one of the league’s most deadly and dynamic duos.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Mabrey began her basketball journey thanks to her family’s constant involvement in the sport. She joined her older sister at Notre Dame – where her new teammate, Young, also played – and quickly established herself as one of the nation’s finest young shooters.

Her rookie season at Notre Dame saw a strong opening season, with Mabrey ranking second for three-pointers in a single season in program history with a whopping 85. By the time she graduated after four seasons with the Fighting Irish, Mabrey was the all time three point leader in the school’s history. She was an established offensive weapon and will look to live up to this during her time with the Lynx.

Mabrey was drafted by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2019 WNBA Draft, but she was not given ample opportunity to showcase her talents. A trade to the Dallas Wings was the perfect change of scenery required, with the guard able to take her points average into the double digits, and despite the shortened season, was able to find herself a go-to option on the offensive end.

Not only can she shoot from extraordinary range with a smooth shooting action, but she can also put the ball on the floor and attack the rim, often finding success. Her style of play looks to suit the Lynx, who are looking to implement and build on their pace and space style of play.

Lynx General Manager Brent Dawkins says Mabrey’s offensive performance in the WNBA is a big indicator of the talent she will bring to Perth this season.

:She was right up there in the WNBA for points scored and finished top five in the league for three-point percentage,” Dawkins said. “She had a breakout season over there and is definitely one of the best three-point shooters from anywhere in the world let alone in the WNBL.”

Dawkins also says Mabrey brings added traits and talents that will benefit the team in the upcoming season.

“She’s exciting. She also brings a real level of competitiveness to the group as well. “You can see when she’s on the court for Dallas, she’s extremely competitive and doesn’t like to lose, and we’re excited for her to bring that to our side.”

With the pair having a connection through playing together at Notre Dame, Mabrey should combine well with Young as the two form arguably the most exciting backcourt in the WNBL.

Mabrey will suit Perth’s fast-paced style of play they are hoping leads them to wins this year. Opposition teams will have to be on their toes because if Mabrey gets open, there is a strong chance it is lights out.

Picture credit: Ringo H.W. Chiu