Caps trio combine for 69 points in 8-point win

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Capitals players celebrate after the win during the round 10 WNBL match between Adelaide Lightning and Canberra Capitals at Adelaide 36ers Arena, on January 03, 2025, in Adelaide. Photo: Sarah Reed/Getty Images

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Lightning's Isabelle Bourne has 29
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UC Capitals' Charli Collier, Nicole Munger and Jade Melbourne proved way, way too much for the Lightning to handle, combining for 69 points in their 88-77 (Game Centre) win against the Adelaide Lightning on Friday, January 3, 2025.

Adelaide took an early lead, outscoring the Capitals 22-16 in the opening period. However, the home side roared back in the second quarter, unleashing a devastating 28-point offensive barrage that turned the tide of the game.

UC Capitals' head coach, Paul Goriss, made crucial adjustments during the break, and his team responded brilliantly.

The Capitals' improved ball movement and sharpshooting from beyond the arc saw them take control, with Nicole Munger catching fire from three-point range. Adelaide, despite valiant efforts from Isabelle Bourne and Isobel Borlase, struggled to keep pace with the Capitals' scoring run.

The third quarter saw both teams trading blows, with Adelaide refusing to go down without a fight. Bourne, in particular, was a constant threat, draining three-pointers and keeping the Lightning within striking distance.

However, the Capitals' balanced attack and superior rebounding proved decisive in maintaining their lead.

Charli Collier of the UC Capitals shoots a free throw during the round 10 WNBL match between Adelaide Lightning and Canberra Capitals at Adelaide 36ers Arena, on January 03, 2025, in Adelaide. Photo: Sarah Reed/Getty Images

The statistics tell a compelling story of the Capitals' victory. Their 47-38 rebounding advantage, including 15 offensive boards and gave them numerous second-chance opportunities. The Capitals also showcased their three-point prowess, shooting an impressive 41.7% from beyond the arc compared to Adelaide's 33.3%.

Charli Collier turned in a monstrous performance for the Capitals, recording a double-double with 25 points and 16 rebounds. Her efficiency was remarkable, shooting 70.6% from the field.

Not to be outdone, Nicole Munger provided the outside threat, knocking down 6-from-11 three-pointers en route to 24 points. Her sharpshooting helped space the floor and open up opportunities for her teammates.

For Adelaide, Isabelle Bourne's 29-point performance, including 6-from-9 from three-point range, was a silver lining in defeat. Isobel Borlase added 25 points, but the lack of production from other starters ultimately proved costly for the Lightning.

Steph Talbot went just 2-from-14 from the field, finishing with four points, six rebounds and eight assists.