'Biggest lead – 45': Capitals dismantle Flames

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UC Capitals defeated Sydney Flames 96-56 at AIS Arena on Saturday, November 15, 2025 in Round 5 of WNBL26.

The UC Capitals produced one of the most dominant performances of WNBL26 behind a blistering 34–10 opening quarter and sustained two-way pressure. Canberra shot an elite 57.4% from the field, forced 22 turnovers, and held the Flames to just 13 made field goals across four quarters.

Sara Blicavs (17 pts, 3 reb, 3 ast, 2 stl) and Jade Melbourne (14 pts, 7 ast, 6 reb) spearheaded the win, while Kadi Sissoko (14 pts) and Teige Morrell (10 pts, 10 reb, 4 stl) delivered major support. The Capitals dominated the glass 45–37, controlled pace, and built a game-high 45-point lead.

Sydney’s lone bright spot was Unique Thompson, who posted a highly efficient 19 points (7-from12 FG, 5-of-6 FT) in 19 minutes. Lauren Nicholson added seven points and five assists, but the Flames struggled against Canberra’s intensity, shooting just 34.2% and going 5–from-27 from deep.

The Capitals led for 39:48 with zero lead changes, sealing a statement Round 5 victory in front of 3,168 at AIS Arena.

Key Details

• Result: UC Capitals 96 def. Sydney Flames 56
• When: 15th November 2025
• Where: AIS Arena, Canberra
• Attendance: 3,168
• Standings

By the Numbers

• Sara Blicavs (UC Capitals) starred with 17 points, three rebounds, three assists and two steals in 29 minutes.
• Unique Thompson (Sydney Flames) scored 19 points, had three rebounds and one assist in 19 minutes.

What Happened

The UC Capitals established complete dominance from the opening tip, racing to a commanding 34-10 lead in the first quarter. They maintained control throughout the second period, taking a 55-26 advantage into halftime. The third quarter saw the Capitals extend their lead further with a 25-9 run, before the Flames showed some resilience in the final period, outscoring the hosts 21-16.

The game was effectively decided during a decisive first-quarter run where the Capitals established their 24-point lead. Captain Jade Melbourne orchestrated the offense brilliantly with seven assists while contributing 14 points herself. The Flames never led at any point in the contest, with the Capitals' lead ballooning to as much as 45 points.

Blicavs showcased her all-round game with 17 points including two three-pointers, while Melbourne and Kadiatou Sissoko added 14 points each. Teige Morrell provided excellent production off the bench with 10 points, 10 rebounds, four steals and two assists in 29 minutes, demonstrating the Capitals' impressive depth.

The Capitals' defensive pressure forced 22 Flames turnovers, converting them into easy transition opportunities. UC shot an outstanding 57.4% from the field (27-from-47) compared to Sydney's 34.2% (13-from-38), while also connecting on seven three-pointers to Sydney's five. The rebounding battle was also won by the home side 45-37, with the Capitals grabbing 12 offensive boards.

For the Flames, Thompson was the lone bright spot with 19 points on efficient 7-from-12 shooting and 5-from-6 from the free throw line. Lauren Nicholson contributed seven points and five assists, but the team struggled against the Capitals' stifling defense, managing just 13 made field goals for the entire game and committing 22 turnovers.