How Rockingham plans to fan the flame

Feature image via: Eric Paul Goldie 

The defending champions have had an extremely slow start, heading into Round 7 with a 1-6 record. 

Despite the result, the Rockingham Flames are not hitting the panic button as of yet. With reinforcements on their way, and injury luck bound to swing back in their favour, 2024 champion Jess Jakens is confident the Flames will make some noise come August. 

“We knew coming into the start of the season we were going to be a bit light on in terms of our recruitment and who was available,” she said on Fast Break Radio. 

“From here on in, we’re going to be rolling with the full squad.” 

Reigning Finals MVP Alex Sharp has only played three of seven games, partially due to national team commitments. While Alex Ciabattoni has only played five games, Georgia Pineau and the Flames’ new import, Sydney Erikstrup, have both only played the last two games – and this is all before superstar Marena Whittle has even suited up for the side (who arrived back in Perth just this week). 

With all of that talent unavailable, it’s clear to see why the Flames have slid down the ladder. However, with only 12 rounds remaining, Rockingham’s talented side has little room for error going forward. 

“With that squad together, and creating a bit of cohesion over the next couple of weeks, we are going to be a very different team,” she said. 

“It’ll be a very different outfit from what we’ve been the past six rounds, I’m excited” 

The Flames will head down to Bunbury to take on the South West Slammers on Saturday night. Watch the game live from 6:30pm AWST via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App.