Spirit star ruled out of blockbuster

The Bendigo Spirit have suffered a massive blow just hours before the tip-off of their Round 2 clash with the Townsville Fire.

Australian Opals centre Marianna Tolo failed her game-day fitness test on her Achilles and will miss the Spirit’s WNBL27 home opener at Red Energy Arena.

Tolo is fresh off a huge 28-point, 6-rebound performance in Round 1 against the UC Capitals.

Tolo, who is expected to return in Round 3, will be replaced by Mia Harvey in Kennedy Kereama’s squad on Tuesday night.

The Round 2 finale tips off at 7pm AEDT, live on 9Now and ESPN via Disney+.

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