MVP Race: Fire star off to hot start

The thrilling WNBL27 Season is three rounds old and plenty of stars have been shining for their respective teams.

As such, it’s only right to start highlighting the top individual performers each week with the WNBL’s weekly MVP rankings.

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So after three rounds, the standings are:

1. Courtney Woods (Townsville Fire)

Across the first five games of the 2026-27 season, Woods is averaging career-highs in points (19.6), triples (2), rebounds (6.2), assists (7.4) and steals (2), while leading the reigning champions to a 3-2 record.

The dynamic Opal has taken her game to another level in Year 7 and with her behind the wheel, the Fire will be in the mix to defend their championship.

2. Lauren Nicholson (Sydney Flames)

The League-leading Flames have plenty of key cogs that make them tick: from Jaz Shelley, to Issie Bourne and Agnes Emma-Nnopu.

But the heart and soul of Renae Garlepp’s side is captain Lauren Nicholson.

The Sutherland talent is averaging 16.8 points, 3.8 dimes (career-high), 3.8 boards and 1.6 steals (career-high) and is a huge reason why the Harbour City side are on their best start to a campaign in years.

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3. Amy Atwell (UC Capitals)

The Canberra sharpshooter is averaging a career-high 23 points, which is more than four points higher than her All-WNBL Second Team season in 2023-24 with Perth.

The Olympic medallist is enjoying the extra responsibility Paul Goriss has given her on offence, becoming one of the League’s most dangerous two-way wings.

If Atwell keeps up this level of play, the Capitals, with the likes of Nyadiew Puoch and Megan McConnell in their lineup, will be pushing hard for a Finals spot.

On the bubble: Perth Lynx’s Georgia Amoore, Tasmania’s Steph Reid and Geelong’s Han Xu.