Preview: Manly Warringah at Hills in NBL Women’s Clash

BAULKHAM HILLS, Australia (Interstat) — A pivotal early-season NBL Women’s matchup tips off Friday when the visiting Manly Warringah Sea Eagles face the Hills Hornets at Hills Basketball Stadium.

Both teams enter with winning records, looking to build momentum. Manly Warringah (2-1) is coming off a dominant 81-61 victory over the Canberra Nationals on March 28. Hills (1-1) split a weekend road trip, blowing out Inner West 89-50 before falling 76-64 at Newcastle on March 29.

The spotlight will be on a compelling frontcourt duel. Manly Warringah is powered by Josie Radan, who is fresh off a commanding 20-point, 10-rebound double-double in the win over Canberra. Her consistent interior presence will be a primary focus for the Sea Eagles’ offense.

Hills will counter with center Brooke Bjelko, who nearly recorded a double-double of her own with 14 points and nine rebounds in the loss to Newcastle. Her performance on the glass will be critical against a strong Manly Warringah rebounding unit.

Manly Warringah’s attack features multiple threats. Alongside Radan, forward Alex Delaney posted a team-high 25 points, five rebounds and six assists against Canberra. Hills relies on a more balanced effort; in their last outing, Ella Gale grabbed 12 rebounds while Kennedy Johnson added 15 points.

The Sea Eagles have shown explosive potential, including a 108-point performance last August, but also inconsistency in a 70-42 loss. Hills’ defense, which held Inner West to 50 points, will be tested by Manly’s high-scoring trio.

This contest marks the first of two regular-season meetings between the clubs, with the rematch set for May 30 in Manly Warringah. Friday’s result will provide an early benchmark in the standings as both teams navigate a long schedule.

Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. local time at Hills Basketball Stadium in Baulkham Hills.