Sissoko impresses in practice matches against Flames

The UC Capitals have wrapped up their final week of WNBL pre-season with two wins in practice matches against the Sydney Flames.

After missing the Townsville Tip-Off, Nyadiew Puoch and Teige Morrell were able to get their first minutes in the Caps’ new-look rotations.

“It’s good to have these hit-outs before the season starts because you don’t want John Cain to be your first game. It’s great to get the opportunity for a strong team like Sydney to come down and get that hit-out against them,” Puoch said.

Puoch missed the pre-season tournament while continuing rehab on her ankle, but has now slotted back into the Caps roster, contributing 13 points in the second game against the Flames.

Having had the opportunity to play at game pace with the team, Puoch says she’s excited to show the league the depth of the squad this year.

“Our team is so versatile, and with the plays we run and the structure we have, it doesn’t matter who’s on. The good thing about our team is we’re strong both offensively and defensively — we’ve got weapons left, right and centre,” she said.

The games against Sydney were also an opportunity for the Caps to test combinations at the centre spot after losing Zitina Aokuso to a knee injury.

Caps Head Coach Paul Goriss says the team has adjusted their game plan in Aokuso’s absence but have the depth to cover her role.

“Z was a big part of what we were going to do, so we’ve had to shuffle things around. Teige is our only other true centre, so we’ll have to do it by committee.

“We can change our line ups and go a little quicker while still maintaining that length and versatility,” he said.

French import Kadi Sissoko continued her impressive early form, top-scoring in both matches against the Flames.

Goriss credits Sissoko’s athleticism and versatility across multiple positions as a great addition to the Caps squad.

“She’s aggressive and can score at any level. She can post up smaller defenders, shoot the three, take people off the dribble — and her pace in transition really sets her apart,” he said.

The Caps tip off their season on Saturday, October 18, against the Flyers at John Cain Arena, before returning to Canberra for their home opener on Saturday, October 25 – get tickets.