Undefeated Lynx embracing "different" style of play

In years gone by, the Perth Lynx were known for their run and gun style of play. But after falling short in their quest for championships the past few seasons, they decided to change their style and roster make-up.

While keeping core pieces such as Australian Opals trio Ally Wilson, Amy Atwell and Anneli Maley, Ryan Petrik decided to complement them with some tall timber in imports Yemiyah Morris and Brianna Turner.

Petrik is no stranger to this style, implementing it with his NBL1 West side, Rockingham. And the shift appears to be working, as the Lynx are the only undefeated team left in the WNBL26 season through three rounds.

“It [the style] is different from a Perth Lynx point of view," Petrik said in Saturday's post-game press conference after defeating Geelong by one-point.

"The flip side is I’ve had this kind of team for a while with Rockingham in the NBL1, whether it was [Greg] Hire and [Tom] Jervis together or [Jeremy] Combs and Gorjok Gak together.

"I’ve had this kind of line-up for a little while at Rockingham and had some reps.

"Clearly, from a WNBL point of view and a Perth Lynx point of view, it’s very different. But we have had some reps with it before.”

Morris, who is averaging 8.33 points, 4.33 rebounds and a league-leading three blocks a game this season, is enjoying playing alongside Turner, who is only with the team for a few more weeks until 211cm Chinese star Han Xu arrives.

“It’s kind of a breath of fresh air [to play alongside another big],” Morris said.

"Brianna is very mobile and versatile. She helps a lot and I just do my job.

"I like it. I’m more of a help on defence and I feel like Bri is a help on both ends. It also helps in transition.”

The Lynx will put their undefeated record to the test when they host the Townsville Fire on Tuesday, in a replay of last season's semi-final series.

The final match of Round 3 tips off at 9pm AEDT, live on ESPN and 9Now.

Tickets to the clash at the Perth High Performance Centre are still available here.