Fire outlast Flames in thrilling Tip Off clash

The Fire kept their perfect TechnologyOne Townsville Tip Off record intact on Sunday, edging the Sydney Flames 80-77.

This win at the Murray Sporting Complex moved them to 2-0 at the 2026 event and 4-0 overall across the two pre-season tournaments.

Against the Flames, the Fire started the stronger of the two rivals, to lead 22-17 at quarter-time.

Renae Garlepp's side hit back in a big way in the second, outscoring the reigning champions 26-19 to carry a two-point lead into half-time.

The third quarter belonged to the Flames too, winning 20-17, before the hosts fought back to win by three points, on the back of a 22-14 final period.

Australian Opals pair Courtney Woods and Abbey Ellis both top-scored for the victors with 20, while Alicia Froling and Lauren Jensen added 14 and 10 respectively.

For the Flames, captain Lauren Nicholson was one of four players in double figures, scoring 19 and being supported by Agnes Emma-Nnopu (17), Jaz Shelley (13) and Issy Morgan (12).

Both teams now turn their attention's to the WNBL27 season, with the Fire starting their title defence in Perth on October 17 and the Flames battling the Flyers on October 16.