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Jan
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Flameout: Injured Nicholson to miss rest of season
Lauren Nicholson of the Flames shoots during the round 10 WNBL match between Townsville Fire and Sydney Flames at Townsville Entertainment Centre on December 23, 2025 in Townsville, Australia. Photo: Albert Perez/Getty Images
Sydney's quest to stay alive in the WNBL playoff race has been dealt a major blow
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The hurdles keep on coming for the Sydney Flames with star guard Lauren Nicholson to miss the rest of the season with a quad injury.
Nicholson, who has had a triumphant return to the WNBL after a season off to have her first baby, suffered the injury in Sydney's upset win over the Bendigo Spirit on January 5 with the club announcing today she will be sidelined for the Flames' remaining six games.
The 32-year-old has been Sydney's standout in WNBL26, averaging 17.2 points while shooting 42% from the three-point line. She had 19 points in the first half of the victory over Bendigo before not taking the court in the second half due to the injury.
Her injury is a major obstacle for the Flames, who are still a mathematical chance of climbing into fourth spot despite their 5-12 record.
"Lauren will work closely with the Club’s medical team on her rehabilitation, with the full support of the Flames organisation and fans behind her every step of the way," the club posted on social media.
"Returning to the court after the birth of her son, Ari, Loz has been an incredible leader for this group. While she won’t be taking the court again this season, her presence and influence from the bench will be a vital part of our push as we continue to fight for a finals spot."
It's been a complicated year for the Flames in the revamped WNBL, losing import point guard and WNBA player Grace Berger before the season even started before replacing her with Olivia Epoupa who has missed significant time with concussion.
Sydney also had a coaching change with longtime WNBL mentor Guy Molloy stepping down and being replaced by Renae Garlepp, who was immediately welcomed to her rookie coaching role with more injuries after Issy Morgan was ruled out for the season with a foot injury.
One of the shining lights for the Flames has been import centre Unique Thompson but following a 32-point and 10-rebound performance over Bendigo, the US product has returned home for family reasons and it's unsure how much time she will miss.
In a silver lining for Sydney's future, Nicholson's absence means youngster Ruby Perkins has been elevated to a full roster spot.
The Flames host the UC Capitals at the Quay Centre tomorrow.
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