Can Townsville’s core carry them to Championship glory?

The Townsville Fire are once again shaping up as serious Championship contenders, with their core group coming off standout winter campaigns.

While the arrivals of WNBA guard Lucy Olsen and WNBL Second Team member Miela Sowah add plenty of intrigue, the real strength of the roster lies in continuity. Six players returned from last season, giving the Fire one of the most settled lineups in the league heading into WNBL26.

That stability comes with momentum. Alex Fowler (2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup MVP), Alicia Froling (NBL1 South and National Champion) and Abbey Ellis (reigning WNBL Breakout Player of the Year) all enjoyed superb off-seasons, form that Head Coach Shannon Seebohm believes will only elevate the Fire further.

“We built strong chemistry within the group and improved a lot across the year—especially in our offence, transition game, ball movement, and reads against different defensive coverages,” he said.

“My hope is that we take that to another level this season and build upon what we accomplished.”

Seebohn, a five-time WNBL Coach of the Year expects Fowler and Froling to lead the charge, describing them as a “two-headed monster” who will set the tone both on court and in practice.

Ellis also looms as a key piece in her second season. She spent the off-season at home in Victoria, training and playing alongside former Fire Champion Steph Reid every day. Seebobm added that Ellis’ daily tutelage with one of Australia’s best guards will only improve her season.

“I’m excited to see her continued growth as a point guard, particularly in leadership, defence, and pick-and-roll reads,” he said of Ellis.

“She’s one of the brightest young stars in our league, and I believe she’s going to keep reaching new heights now she’s settled into playing in the WNBL.”
With depth, chemistry and rising stars, Townsville looks primed to push for its third Grand Final appearance in five years. Can they add another trophy to their cabinet?

Fans won’t have to wait long for a glimpse of the Fire’s firepower. They’ll take to the court alongside all seven other teams next week at the inaugural Townsville Tip Off. Don’t miss your chance to see it first - tickets on sale here.