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Perth Lynx
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The Perth Lynx are an Australian professional basketball team based in Perth, Western Australia. The Lynx compete in the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) and play their home games at Perth High Performance Centre. For sponsorship reasons, they are known as the Northern Star Resources Perth Lynx.
Key Information
The Lynx were established in 1988 as the Perth Breakers. After being owned and operated by Basketball Western Australia from 2001 to 2015, the Perth Wildcats took over ownership and operation of the team for a period of five years. In 2020, the licence was transferred back to Basketball Western Australia. In 2024, the licence was transferred to Sports Entertainment Group's sporting teams business, SEN Teams. The Lynx have reached six WNBL Grand Finals, winning their only championship in 1992.
History
[edit]WAIS Rockets (1987)
[edit]In 1985, the Western Australian Basketball Federation sent its senior women's team to the Australian women's club championships. Prior to the championships, WA was seen as at least two years away from a national conference berth. After the team went 5–1 at the championships, WA was granted entry into the Women's Basketball Conference (WBC), a second-tier national league under the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL).[2] Former Australian representative Sue Harcus was a key figure in getting a WA side into the national competition.[2][3] The entry was seen as a two-year apprenticeship[2] on the basis that they paid their own airfares in the first two years.[4] The team debuted in the WBC in 1986,[5] funded by the Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) and the WA Basketball Federation, and backed by Adidas.[2] Harcus served as assistant coach under head coach Dave Hancock.[2] The team endured tough travel schedules, sometimes playing three games in 36 hours or four games in five days.[2] In 12 games, the team had five wins and seven losses.[5]
In 1987, the team was known as the WAIS Rockets. For WA to be admitted to the WNBL, the state was told that the Rockets had to win the 1987 WBC title.[6] That year, the Rockets played all of their games away from home including finals,[6] finishing on top of the ladder with a 10–1 record[3] and beating the Forestville Eagles in overtime to advance to the grand final, where they won the title 56–47 against the Knox Raiders.[6] The Rockets featured Tanya Fisher and Cheryl Kickett-Tucker.[6]
Perth Breakers (1988–2001)
[edit]The franchise debuted in the WNBL in the 1988 season as the Perth Breakers.[3][7] The Rockets name was dropped due to the WNBL already having the North Adelaide Rockets in the league.[3] The Breakers finished their inaugural season in ninth place with a 6–16 record.[3]
In the 1989 WNBL season, the Breakers amassed a 9–8 record over the first half of the season.[8][9] As a consequence of the 1989 pilot strike, the team withdrew from the season and their record was deleted from the ladder.[10][11] The Breakers returned to action in the 1990 season.[12] After playing at the Superdrome in Mount Claremont over their first two seasons, the side returned to its original venue at Perry Lakes Basketball Stadium.[3]
The Breakers appeared in the WNBL finals every year between 1991 and 2000 except 1997, making grand final appearances in 1992, 1993 and 1999.[12]
In the 1992 season, the Breakers won the WNBL championship behind captain Michele Timms and coach Tom Maher, along with Robyn Maher,[13] Tanya Fisher, Natasha Bargeus, Lisa MacLean, Marynne Briggs and Marianna Vlahov.[14] They defeated the Dandenong Rangers 58–54 in the grand final. Tom Maher won the Coach of the year award; Robyn Maher was the league's Best Defensive Player, and Timms was recognised as the league's number one point guard.[3]
In 1993, the Breakers made the Perth Entertainment Centre their new home venue.[3] Under coach Guy Molloy, the Breakers returned to the grand final but lost 65–64 to the Sydney Flames.[3]
In the 2000–01 season, the Breakers split their home games between Perry Lakes Stadium and Challenge Stadium.[15][16][17][18][19][20]
Basketball WA's first ownership stint (2001–2015)
[edit]In 2001, just three months before round one of the new WNBL season, the owners handed back the licence and the players were told the club would fold. Basketball Western Australia subsequently took over the licence[21] and changed the team name to Perth Lynx, which remained as such until 2010.[22]
Basketball WA lacked money to pay players and coaches. The players had to pay for their own gym memberships and maintained full-time jobs. They also travelled on game day or took midnight flights to save money. Despite the challenges, Perth won four games in 2001–02 and six in 2002–03.[21] The Lynx played exclusively at Perry Lakes Stadium in 2001–02.[23]
After finishing last on the ladder in the 2009–10 WNBL season with a 2–20 record, the team was rebranded as the West Coast Waves for the 2010–11 WNBL season. The change symbolised the reinvigoration of the Basketball WA program under experienced head coach David Herbert and home-grown legend Tully Bevilaqua, and gave a nod to the team's history with the reintroduction of the black, green and gold colours. The Waves also debuted at the newly opened WA Basketball Centre.[24][25][26]
In 14 seasons under Basketball WA, the team failed to make a finals appearance.[12]
Perth Wildcats management (2015–2020)
[edit]In April 2015, the team's licence was purchased by the Perth Wildcats and their chairman and owner Jack Bendat. The Wildcats subsequently brought back the Perth Lynx brand name and red colour.[22][27][28]
In the 2015–16 season, the Lynx qualified for the finals for the first time since 2000.[29] They went on to reach the grand final, their first since 1999,[30] where they lost 2–0 to the Townsville Fire.[31][32]
In the 2017–18 season, the Lynx won 14 consecutive games throughout the season and finished on top of the ladder, before losing four matches in a row after enduring seven flights in eight days. They lost to Canberra and Townsville in the final weekend of the regular season and were then swept 2–0 by fourth-placed Melbourne in the semi-finals.[33][34]
In March 2018, the licence agreement with the Wildcats was extended.[35]
Basketball WA's second ownership stint (2020–2024)
[edit]
In March 2020, the Perth Lynx's WNBL licence was transferred back to Basketball WA.[36][37]
In the 2021–22 season, the Lynx finished in second place with an 11–5 record and reached the grand final,[38][39][40][41] where they lost the series 2–1 to the Melbourne Boomers despite winning game one in Melbourne.[42]
In the 2023–24 season, the Lynx finished in fourth place with an 11–10 record and defeated the first-placed Townsville Fire in the semi-finals to reach their second grand final series in three years.[43][44][45] The Lynx won 101–79 in game one of the grand final series against the Southside Flyers. They became only the second team to ever score 100 points in a WNBL grand final and finished the game with 22 three-pointers.[46][47][48] They went on to finish runners-up after losing game two 97–95[49][50] and game three 115–81.[51][52][53] In the game two grand final game at Bendat Basketball Centre, the Lynx set a club record attendance of 1,753.[54]
New ownership (2024–present)
[edit]In May 2024, Perth business couple Christian Hauff and Jodi Millhahn were revealed as the front runners to take over ownership of the Perth Lynx from Basketball WA.[55][56] The couple had earlier in the year become minor investors in Sports Entertainment Group's sporting teams business, SEN Teams.[57][58] On 13 June 2024, the Lynx's WNBL licence was transferred to Perth Lynx Pty Ltd, owned by Hauff and Millhahn, with management and operational support from SEN Teams.[59][60][61][62] On 10 December 2024, SEN Teams took over from Hauff and Millhahn as majority owners of the Lynx. Hauff and Millhahn remained shareholders and co-chairs of the club's board of directors.[63][64]
During the pre-season in the lead up to the 2024–25 WNBL season, the Lynx played two games as part of HoopsFest at RAC Arena.[65][66] During the 2024–25 regular season, the Lynx split their home games between Bendat Basketball Centre and the 4,000-capacity Perth High Performance Centre.[67][68][69][70] They played three games at Perth High Performance Centre and made the venue their training base.[71][72][73]
In June 2025, it was announced that all Lynx home games in the 2025–26 WNBL season would be played at Perth High Performance Centre.[74][75][76] The following month, the club underwent a rebrand with a new logo.[77] Following the mid-season addition of Chinese center Han Xu, the Lynx achieved a record crowd for Han's first home game at Perth HPC, with 3,121 fans attending the 98–81 win over the Southside Melbourne Flyers on 5 December 2025. The previous club record attendance was 1,753.[78] On 15 January 2026, the Lynx played their first ever regular season game at RAC Arena as part of HoopsFest in Perth,[79] winning 85–81 over the Bendigo Spirit.[80][81] On 7 February 2026, co-captain Anneli Maley recorded 18 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in a 108–93 win over the Sydney Flames, becoming just the fifth player in club history to record a triple-double (after Michele Timms, Tully Bevilaqua, Deanna Smith and Melissa Marsh) and the first since Marsh in 2009.[82][83] In the semi-finals, the Lynx defeated the Bendigo Spirit 2–0[84][85] to advance to their third WNBL Grand Final in five years.[86][87]
Season-by-season records
[edit]| Season | Standings | Regular season | Finals | Head coach | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | PCT | ||||
| Perth Breakers | ||||||
| 1988 | 9th | 6 | 16 | .273 | Did not qualify | Dave Hancock |
| 1989 | Withdrew midseason[10] | Dave Hancock[8] | ||||
| 1990 | 8th | 10 | 14 | .417 | Did not qualify | Don Sheppard |
| 1991 | 3rd | 15 | 7 | .682 | Won Semi-final (North Adelaide, 82–72) Lost Preliminary Final (Hobart, 74–61) |
Don Sheppard |
| 1992 | 1st | 17 | 3 | .850 | Won Semi-final (Melbourne, 54–52) Won Grand Final (Dandenong, 58–54) |
Tom Maher |
| 1993 | 3rd | 12 | 6 | .667 | Won Semi-final (Dandenong, 83–68) Won Preliminary Final (Adelaide, 68–66) Lost Grand Final (Sydney, 65–64) |
Guy Molloy |
| 1994 | 4th | 12 | 6 | .667 | Won Semi-final (Sydney, 62–58) Lost Preliminary Final (Melbourne, 74–64) |
Guy Molloy |
| 1995 | 4th | 12 | 6 | .667 | Lost Semi-final (Melbourne, 60–39) | Guy Molloy |
| 1996 | 4th | 11 | 7 | .611 | Won Qualifying Final (Brisbane, 95–62) Won Semi-final (Bulleen, 75–58) Lost Preliminary Final (Adelaide, 87–55) |
Guy Molloy |
| 1997 | 8th | 5 | 13 | .278 | Did not qualify | Murray Treseder |
| 1998 | 3rd | 8 | 4 | .667 | Lost Semi-final (AIS, 84–70) | Murray Treseder |
| 1998–99 | 2nd | 14 | 7 | .667 | Lost Semi-final (AIS, 81–62) Won Preliminary Final (Adelaide, 67–46) Lost Grand Final (AIS, 88–79) |
Murray Treseder |
| 1999–00 | 4th | 11 | 10 | .524 | Lost Semi-final (Bulleen, 61–60) | Murray Treseder |
| 2000–01 | 7th | 4 | 17 | .190 | Did not qualify | James Crawford |
| Perth Lynx | ||||||
| 2001–02 | 7th | 4 | 17 | .190 | Did not qualify | Rick Morcom |
| 2002–03 | 7th | 6 | 15 | .286 | Did not qualify | Rick Morcom |
| 2003–04 | 8th | 0 | 21 | .000 | Did not qualify | Murray Treseder |
| 2004–05 | 8th | 1 | 20 | .048 | Did not qualify | Craig Friday |
| 2005–06 | 7th | 4 | 17 | .190 | Did not qualify | Paul O'Brien |
| 2006–07 | 7th | 3 | 18 | .143 | Did not qualify | Paul O'Brien |
| 2007–08 | 10th | 5 | 19 | .208 | Did not qualify | Joe McKay |
| 2008–09 | 9th | 4 | 18 | .182 | Did not qualify | Joe McKay |
| 2009–10 | 9th | 2 | 20 | .091 | Did not qualify | Joe McKay / Vlad Alava |
| West Coast Waves | ||||||
| 2010–11 | 8th | 8 | 14 | .364 | Did not qualify | David Herbert |
| 2011–12 | 9th | 2 | 20 | .091 | Did not qualify | David Herbert |
| 2012–13 | 9th | 4 | 20 | .167 | Did not qualify | Kennedy Kereama |
| 2013–14 | 9th | 1 | 23 | .042 | Did not qualify | Kennedy Kereama |
| 2014–15 | 8th | 4 | 18 | .182 | Did not qualify | Kennedy Kereama |
| Perth Lynx | ||||||
| 2015–16 | 2nd | 16 | 8 | .667 | Won Semi-final (Townsville, 91–72) Lost Grand Final (Townsville, 0–2) |
Andy Stewart |
| 2016–17 | 3rd | 15 | 9 | .625 | Lost Semi-final (Dandenong, 1–2) | Andy Stewart |
| 2017–18 | 1st | 15 | 6 | .714 | Lost Semi-final (Melbourne, 0–2) | Andy Stewart |
| 2018–19 | 4th | 13 | 8 | .619 | Lost Semi-final (Canberra, 0–2) | Andy Stewart |
| 2019–20 | 5th | 8 | 13 | .381 | Did not qualify | Andy Stewart |
| 2020 | 7th | 4 | 9 | .308 | Did not qualify | Ryan Petrik |
| 2021–22 | 2nd | 11 | 5 | .688 | Won Semi-final (Canberra, 91–77) Lost Grand Final (Melbourne, 1–2) |
Ryan Petrik |
| 2022–23 | 4th | 13 | 8 | .619 | Lost Semi-final (Townsville, 0–2) | Ryan Petrik |
| 2023–24 | 4th | 11 | 10 | .524 | Won Semi-final (Townsville, 2–0) Lost Grand Final (Southside, 1–2) |
Ryan Petrik |
| 2024–25 | 2nd | 16 | 5 | .762 | Lost Semi-final (Townsville, 0–2) | Ryan Petrik |
| Regular season | 297 | 455 | .395 | 2 Minor Premierships | ||
| Finals | 16 | 25 | .390 | 1 WNBL Championship | ||
Source: Year By Year
Arena history
[edit]- Superdrome / Challenge Stadium / Perth HPC (1988–1989; 2000–2001; 2024–present)
- Perry Lakes Basketball Stadium (1990–1992; 2000s[88][89])
- Perth Entertainment Centre (1993)
- Bendat Basketball Centre (2010–2025)
Players
[edit]Current roster
[edit]| Perth Lynx roster | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Players | Coaches | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Updated: 25 November 2025 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Notable former players
[edit]Honour roll
[edit]
| WNBL Championships: | 1 (1992) |
| WNBL Finals appearances: | 17 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025) |
| WNBL Grand Final appearances: | 6 (1992, 1993, 1999, 2016, 2022, 2024) |
| WNBL Grand Final MVPs: | Tanya Fisher (1992) |
| All-WNBL First Team: | Michele Timms (1991, 1992, 1994), Gina Stevens (1996, 1999), Deanna Smith (2006, 2009), Carly Wilson (2007), Sami Whitcomb (2016, 2017, 2018, 2023), Courtney Williams (2018), Asia Taylor (2019), Katie-Rae Ebzery (2019–20, 2020), Jackie Young (2022), Alex Wilson (2025), Laeticia Amihere (2025) |
| All-WNBL Second Team: | Marina Mabrey (2022), Lauren Scherf (2023), Aari McDonald (2024), Amy Atwell (2024), Miela Sowah (2025), Anneli Maley (2025) |
| WNBL Coach of the Year: | Tom Maher (1992), Guy Molloy (1995), Andy Stewart (2016, 2018), Ryan Petrik (2022) |
| WNBL Defensive Player of the Year: | Robyn Maher (1992), Tully Bevilaqua (1995, 1996, 1997, 2000) |
| WNBL Sixth Woman of the Year: | Alison Schwagmeyer (2019–20) |
| WNBL Leading Scorer: | Gina Stevens (1996), Deanna Smith (2006), Sami Whitcomb (2017), Asia Taylor (2019), Aari McDonald (2024) |
| Retired numbers: | 4 – Tina Christie, 13 – Melissa McClure, 14 – Melissa Marsh, 41 – Tully Bevilaqua |
Source: Perth Lynx Achievements
References
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- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (2 September 2024). "Perth Lynx keen to turn HBF Stadium into their permanent home for WNBL matches after fixture release". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 2 September 2024.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (21 December 2024). "Perth Lynx legend Melissa Sinfield loves the decision to move WNBL games to HBF Stadium". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 21 December 2024.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (23 December 2024). "Perth Lynx vice-captain Mac Clinch Hoycard thrilled about move to making HBF Stadium the WNBL club's home base". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 23 December 2024.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (23 December 2024). "Perth Lynx celebrate move to HBF Stadium with big win over Geelong United as Ally Wilson and Anneli Maley star". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 23 December 2024.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (25 December 2024). "Perth Lynx move to HBF Stadium receives high praise as the entertainment and basketball experience soars". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 25 December 2024.
- ^ "Lynx lock in Perth HPC for all 2025-26 home games". Perth Lynx. 20 June 2025. Retrieved 21 June 2025.
- ^ "Fixture drop: Perth Lynx ready to light up the WNBL in 2025-26". Perth Lynx. 21 June 2025. Retrieved 21 June 2025.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (21 June 2025). "Perth Lynx to play all of their home games at Perth High Performance Centre for upcoming WNBL season". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 21 June 2025. Retrieved 21 June 2025.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (25 July 2025). "Perth Lynx change logo, home court and uniform as owner Christian Hauff focuses on a more modern WNBL". The West Australian. Retrieved 30 July 2025.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (5 December 2025). "Perth Lynx shatter attendance record as Han Xu, Amy Atwell, Anneli Maley and Alex Ciabattoni star in win". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 5 December 2025. Retrieved 5 December 2025.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (14 January 2026). "WNBL CEO Jennie Sager is keen for more double-headers with NBL as HoopsFest begins at RAC Arena". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 14 January 2026. Retrieved 14 January 2026.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (15 January 2026). "Perth Lynx beat Bendigo Spirit in HoopsFest as Ally Wilson lights up RAC Arena". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 15 January 2026. Retrieved 15 January 2026.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (15 January 2026). "Perth Lynx coach Ryan Petrik demands more protection for Han Xu after WNBL victory over Bendigo Spirit". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 15 January 2026. Retrieved 15 January 2026.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (7 February 2026). "Perth Lynx co-captain Anneli Maley registers historic triple-double in massive WNBL win over Sydney Flames". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 7 February 2026. Retrieved 7 February 2026.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (7 February 2026). "Perth Lynx co-captain Anneli Maley reveals the secrets to success after triple-double against Sydney Flames". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 7 February 2026. Retrieved 7 February 2026.
- ^ "Perth Pounces Early to Take Game One Over Bendigo". www.wnbl.com.au. 14 February 2026. Retrieved 17 February 2026.
- ^ "Perth Punch Their Ticket to the WNBL26 Championships Series". www.wnbl.com.au. 17 February 2026. Retrieved 17 February 2026.
- ^ O'Donoghue, Craig (17 February 2026). "Perth Lynx beat Bendigo Spirit to qualify for WNBL grand final as Han Xu and Anneli Maley dominate". The West Australian. Archived from the original on 17 February 2026. Retrieved 17 February 2026.
- ^ "Xu fires to lead Lynx into WNBL Grand Final". ESPN.com. 17 February 2026. Retrieved 17 February 2026.
- ^ "Venue and Ticket Information". WNBL.com.au. Archived from the original on 21 July 2008. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ "Club Administration". WNBL.com.au. Archived from the original on 12 September 2009. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
External links
[edit]- Perth Lynx official website
- Perth Lynx official website (2009)
- Perth Lynx roster (2002)
- "Former greats offer thoughts on 2023/24 Lynx team" at wnbl.basketball
- "Perth Lynx are closing in on new ownership as WNBL guarantees their place in the league for next season" at thewest.com.au
- "New Perth Lynx owners Christian Hauff and Jodi Millhahn having immediate financial impact on WNBL team" at thewest.com.au
- "Perth Lynx relishing life in WNBL spotlight with attacking game plan and a story that would make a great movie" at thewest.com.au
Perth Lynx
View on GrokipediaHistory
Origins (1987–1988)
The Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS) established the WAIS Rockets in 1987 as the state's inaugural professional women's basketball team, managed directly by the institute to represent Western Australia and secure a franchise spot in the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL).[6] The team's formation came amid growing interest in women's basketball, with WAIS aiming to build a competitive squad from local talent to compete in the Women's Basketball Conference (WBC), the national competition serving as a pathway to the WNBL.[1] Under head coach Dave Hancock, who was named Coach of the Year for his efforts, the Rockets faced significant early recruitment challenges, including a limited budget that forced players to forgo jobs and cover personal expenses for travel and participation.[6] Key inaugural players included Cheryl Kickett-Tucker, Donna Cupress, Tania Bunn, Kath MacDonald, Tanya Fisher, Julie Parker, Donna Winter, Sharon Pennefather, Jenny Marsh, and Jane Yates, many of whom were local athletes balancing the demands of a nascent professional setup.[6] The team debuted in the WBC in early 1987, navigating a demanding schedule of 12 games over 16 days across multiple states without home-court advantage, yet clinched the championship by defeating the Forestville Eagles in overtime and the Knox Merlins 56–47 in the grand final in September 1987.[6] This WBC victory fulfilled the condition set by WNBL officials for Western Australia's entry, paving the way for the franchise's professional debut in the league the following year.[1] Prior to the 1988 WNBL season, the team rebranded as the Perth Breakers and relocated operations to Perth, a move designed to foster stronger city-specific identity and boost local fan support while avoiding name overlap with the North Adelaide Rockets.[1] In their WNBL inaugural campaign starting February 1988, the Breakers struggled against established competition, recording six wins and 16 losses to finish ninth out of 12 teams.Perth Breakers era (1988–2001)
The Perth Breakers entered the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) in 1988, rebranded from the WAIS Rockets to avoid confusion with the North Adelaide Rockets, marking the team's official debut in Australia's premier women's professional basketball competition.[1] Owned and operated by the Western Australian Basketball Federation (BAWA), the predecessor to Basketball WA, the franchise symbolized a new era for women's basketball in Western Australia, building on the Rockets' 1987 Women's Basketball Championship success that secured their WNBL entry.[1] The team played its home games primarily at the Perth Superdrome, a multi-purpose venue that hosted early matches and contributed to growing local attendance. Early years were marked by challenges, including a mid-season withdrawal in 1989 due to the Australian pilots' dispute disrupting travel, before returning the following year to stabilize their presence in the league. Under coach Tom Maher, the Breakers achieved their pinnacle in the 1991–92 season, capturing the WNBL championship by defeating the Dandenong Rangers 58–54 in the grand final, their first and only title during this period.[7] Key to this success was point guard Michele Timms, a Hall of Famer who captained the team and earned All-Star Five selections, highlighting her role in elevating the franchise's profile alongside early international recruits who brought global talent to the roster.[8] The 1992 triumph was followed by a narrow grand final loss to the Sydney Flames by one point in 1993, showcasing the team's competitive edge but also their vulnerability in high-stakes playoffs.[1] Despite these highlights, the Breakers era was characterized by inconsistent performance, with additional finals appearances like the 1999 grand final but frequent struggles in regular-season standings that underscored broader operational challenges within the WNBL.[1] Financial pressures and league-wide instability contributed to a transitional period, culminating in the 2001 ownership shift to Basketball WA as the franchise sought greater sustainability.[9] Timms' individual accolades, including multiple WNBL awards, provided enduring legacy amid the team's ups and downs.[8]Basketball WA ownership (2001–2015)
In 2001, Basketball Western Australia acquired the WNBL license for Western Australia's women's team, rebranding it from the Perth Breakers to the Perth Lynx to continue operations under state governing body management.[1] This shift marked the beginning of a 14-year period of direct oversight by Basketball WA, which aimed to sustain the franchise amid broader challenges in women's professional basketball.[10] During this era, the Lynx experienced one of the most difficult stretches in WNBL history, finishing no higher than seventh place in 15 consecutive seasons from 2001 to 2015.[1] The team struggled with inconsistent results, including a low point of just one win combined across the 2004 and 2005 seasons, reflecting limited resources and roster instability under Basketball WA's control.[1] Despite these setbacks, the organization focused on maintaining a presence in the league, playing home games primarily at venues like Perry Lakes Stadium and later the Bendat Basketball Centre. In 2010, the team underwent another rebranding to the West Coast Waves, intended to refresh its identity while still under Basketball WA ownership, though it reverted to the Lynx name after the 2015 license transfer.[1] Financially, the model relied heavily on state government support and sponsorships, but ongoing funding shortages contributed to operational constraints and the decision to relinquish the license in 2015.[11] Basketball WA's management emphasized grassroots integration, using the professional team to support broader talent pathways in Western Australia, though competitive success remained elusive until the ownership change.[12]Perth Wildcats partnership (2015–2020)
In April 2015, the licence for Western Australia's WNBL franchise was acquired by Jack Bendat, owner of the men's NBL team Perth Wildcats, leading to a rebranding from the West Coast Waves back to the Perth Lynx name used in the team's early years. Under this operational alliance, the Lynx retained their distinct branding while benefiting from the Wildcats' established professional infrastructure, including shared marketing strategies, ticketing systems, broadcasting partnerships, and access to facilities like the Bendat Basketball Centre. This integration aimed to elevate the team's visibility and operational efficiency within the Western Australian basketball ecosystem.[13][14] The partnership yielded immediate on-court success in the Lynx's debut 2015–16 season under head coach Andy Stewart. The team posted a strong 16–8 regular-season record, securing second place and their first grand final appearance since 1999. Bolstered by import forward Betnijah Laney, who averaged 16.4 points and 6.5 rebounds per game while earning All-WNBL First Team selection, the Lynx advanced past the Canberra Capitals in the semi-finals before falling 2–0 to the Townsville Fire in the championship series, with losses of 73–57 in game one and 80–70 in game two. This run marked a significant turnaround, highlighting the benefits of the Wildcats' professional management in roster building and competitive preparation.[15][16] Over the subsequent seasons, the alliance continued to foster growth, with the Lynx making playoffs in 2016–17 and 2017–18 under Stewart, though they exited in the semi-finals both times. In 2019–20, the team imported guard Courtney Williams, a former WNBA All-Star who averaged 19.1 points per game, adding firepower to a roster that included local talents like Katie-Rae Ebzery. The partnership also drove fan engagement, resulting in a notable attendance surge; for instance, the 2019 season opener drew a crowd increase that reflected broader community support amid the professionalized operations. In March 2020, as the 2019–20 regular season concluded with an 8–13 record and no finals qualification, the Wildcats transferred the licence back to Basketball WA, ending the five-year collaboration.[17][18]Return to Basketball WA (2020–2024)
In March 2020, the Perth Wildcats and Basketball WA agreed to transfer the WNBL license for the Perth Lynx back to Basketball WA ahead of the 2020–21 season, aiming to integrate the professional team more closely with the organization's community-based women's pathway programs for long-term sustainability and development.[19] This reversion marked the end of the five-year partnership with the Wildcats, during which the Lynx had achieved notable success, including four finals appearances. The move allowed Basketball WA to prioritize grassroots initiatives alongside elite competition, fostering a unified structure for female basketball in Western Australia. The 2020–21 season presented significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the entire WNBL relocated to a biosecure hub in North Queensland, resulting in a shortened 13-game regular season for the Lynx, who finished with a 4–9 record and seventh place on the ladder, missing the playoffs.[20] Under new head coach Ryan Petrik, the team began a rebuilding phase emphasizing local talent development, exemplified by the emergence of Western Australian guard Amy Atwell, who joined the roster for the 2022–23 season after a standout college career at the University of Hawaii and quickly became a key contributor with her scoring and three-point shooting prowess. This period of transition saw steady improvement, as the Lynx returned to home games at Bendat Basketball Centre in 2021–22, finishing second with an 11–5 record and advancing to the grand final, where they fell to the Melbourne Boomers in a three-game series. The team's competitive resurgence continued through the early 2020s, with a semi-final appearance in 2022–23 (losing 0–2 to the Townsville Fire after a 13–8 regular season) and another grand final run in 2023–24 (losing 1–2 to the Southside Flyers following an 11–10 regular season). Basketball WA expanded community outreach during this ownership stint, incorporating the Lynx into junior development clinics and pathway events to boost participation among young female athletes across the state.[19] Average game attendance ranged from 1,500 to 2,500, reflecting growing local support amid the team's on-court progress.[21] In June 2024, Basketball WA announced the transfer of the license to new private owners, Perth Lynx Pty Ltd—a Western Australian family-led entity—concluding its second period of control over the franchise and paving the way for further professionalization.[9]SEN majority ownership (2024–present)
In June 2024, Western Australian business figures Christian Hauff and Jodi Millhahn acquired the Perth Lynx WNBL license from Basketball WA, marking a transition to private ownership and ensuring the franchise's continuity in Perth.[22] This initial investment was followed by Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) securing a management rights agreement with the new owners shortly thereafter.[23] By December 10, 2024, SEN, through its subsidiary SEN Teams, acquired a majority stake in the Lynx for an undisclosed amount, partnering with Hauff and Millhahn to drive long-term growth while retaining their involvement as shareholders and board members.[24] This shift positioned SEN as the primary owner, leveraging its existing portfolio in women's basketball, including ownership of the Bendigo Spirit. Under SEN's majority ownership, the Lynx integrated closely with the company's media assets, enhancing visibility through expanded broadcasting on SEN radio stations and digital platforms such as SEN Sync and SEN Stadium for synchronized audio experiences.[25] This synergy aimed to amplify the team's reach, building on SEN's commitment to women's sports by producing behind-the-scenes content like the "Under the Surface" series to engage fans.[26] The 2024–25 season reflected early stability, with the Lynx securing second place in the regular season standings via a 16–5 record before exiting in the semi-finals with a 0–2 series loss to the Townsville Fire.[27] Operations were also influenced by the WNBL's broader structural changes, as a consortium led by the NBL and Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate assumed majority league ownership effective April 2, 2025, with the NBL overseeing day-to-day management while Basketball Australia retained a minority stake.[28] SEN's leadership emphasized commercial expansion, securing new partnerships such as a multi-year sponsorship with Rio Tinto to support community basketball programs and team initiatives.[29] Merchandise offerings grew with the launch of the 2025–26 replica home jersey and an Indigenous-themed jersey titled "Our Strength, Our Circle," celebrating family and cultural connections through collaborations with local artists.[30] These developments, alongside the October 2025 signing of high-profile Chinese import Han Xu for the 2025–26 season, underscored SEN's strategy to elevate the Lynx's profile and fan engagement.[31] As of November 19, 2025, the Lynx have started the 2025–26 season strongly, with victories including a 75–72 win over the Adelaide Lightning in October and an 88–79 triumph against the Bendigo Spirit on November 15.[4][32]Records and statistics
Season-by-season results
The Perth Lynx, originally competing as the Perth Breakers from 1988 to 2001, have experienced fluctuating fortunes in the WNBL, with their first winning regular season coming in 1991–92 under head coach Tom Maher, culminating in the team's sole championship victory over the Dandenong Rangers.[1][7] The 2018–19 season marked a playoff run to the semi-finals, though the league was disrupted by COVID-19 in the following 2020–21 campaign, which adopted a hub format in Queensland due to pandemic restrictions.[33] As of November 2025, the Lynx have recorded approximately 300 regular season wins and 15 playoff appearances, including early successes in the 2025–26 season bolstered by the addition of Han Xu. The table below highlights notable seasons, particularly those with playoff qualification.[1]| Season | Regular season (W–L) | Win % | Position | Playoffs outcome | Head coach |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991–92 | 14–4 | .778 | 2nd | Won championship (def. Dandenong Rangers, 2–0) | Tom Maher |
| 2015–16 | 15–3 | .833 | 2nd | Lost grand final (0–2 vs. Townsville Fire) | Andy Stewart |
| 2017–18 | 15–6 | .714 | 1st | Lost semi-finals (0–2 vs. Townsville Fire) | Guy Molloy |
| 2018–19 | 13–8 | .619 | 4th | Lost semi-finals (1–2 vs. Adelaide Lightning) | Guy Molloy |
| 2019–20 | 8–13 | .381 | 5th | Did not qualify | Guy Molloy |
| 2020–21 | 7–10 | .412 | 5th | Did not qualify (COVID hub season) | Ryan Petrik |
| 2021–22 | 11–5 | .688 | 2nd | Lost grand final (1–2 vs. Melbourne Boomers) | Ryan Petrik |
| 2022–23 | 12–6 | .667 | 4th | Lost semi-finals (0–2 vs. Townsville Fire) | Ryan Petrik |
| 2023–24 | 11–10 | .524 | 4th | Lost grand final (1–2 vs. Southside Flyers) | Ryan Petrik |
| 2024–25 | 16–5 | .762 | 2nd | Lost semi-finals (0–2 vs. Townsville Fire) | Ryan Petrik |
| 2025–26* | 4–2 | .667 | 3rd | Ongoing | Ryan Petrik |
All-time records
The Perth Lynx franchise, encompassing its history as the Perth Breakers (1988–2001) and West Coast Waves (2010–2015), has recorded a regular season win percentage of approximately 44% across its tenure in the WNBL as of the end of the 2024–25 season. The team has compiled hundreds of games with a balanced home and away split, performing slightly better at home due to the supportive environment at Bendat Basketball Centre and previous venues.[1] The franchise's single-season high for wins is 16, achieved in the 2024–25 campaign. The longest winning streak stands at 14 consecutive victories, from the 2017–18 season, marking a franchise record for sustained dominance. Other notable single-season marks include 14 wins in the championship-winning 1991–92 season as the Perth Breakers.[37][38] In playoff competition, the Lynx hold an all-time series record that includes one championship victory in 1992, when the Breakers defeated the Dandenong Rangers 2–0 in the grand final. The franchise has advanced to the postseason 15 times, with a playoff win-loss tally reflecting competitive but limited deep runs, including a grand final appearance in 2023–24 and semi-finals in 2024–25.[1][34] Among all-time scoring leaders for the franchise, Sami Whitcomb ranks highly with her explosive 2017–18 performance of 567 points, contributing to her status as one of the Lynx's top career point producers during her tenure. Other key leaders include Anneli Maley in rebounds, averaging double-doubles in recent seasons, and Carly Wilson in assists over her long career with the team.[1] For head-to-head records, the Lynx hold a 8–12 mark against the Southside Flyers (formerly Melbourne Boomers in some matchups), highlighting a challenging rivalry in recent years. The team has a losing record against several eastern conference opponents like the Sydney Uni Flames (approximately 25–40 overall), but has fared better against local rivals.[39] The Lynx rank mid-table in all-time WNBL win percentage among active franchises, at around 44.6%, reflecting a history of periodic contention interspersed with rebuilding phases.[1]Venues
Current venue
The Perth Lynx have adopted the Perth High Performance Centre (HPC) as their primary home venue for all games in the 2025–26 WNBL season, with the decision announced in June 2025.[40] Located in Perth's sporting precinct in Mount Claremont, the HPC offers a capacity of 4,500 spectators, creating an intimate setting ideal for focused fan engagement, complemented by state-of-the-art training amenities including advanced gym equipment and aquatic recovery options.[41][42] This venue choice facilitates closer integration with Western Australia's basketball development programs through shared resources at the high-performance facility, while providing superior player recovery options such as hydrotherapy pools and specialized rehabilitation spaces to support athlete wellness.[43][44] The Lynx aim to achieve attendance exceeding 1,000 fans per game, fostering a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the overall experience for supporters and players alike.[40] Secured under the team's current majority ownership by SEN, the HPC serves as the long-term home venue.[23]Historical venues
The Perth Breakers, the original incarnation of the franchise that became the Perth Lynx, began playing home games at the Perth Entertainment Centre upon entering the WNBL in 1988, utilizing the venue's capacity of around 7,000 for their inaugural seasons through 1989.[45] The team continued to use this arena sporadically in the early 1990s, including during their 1992 championship run, before transitioning to the Challenge Stadium for broader accessibility. By the mid-1990s, Challenge Stadium—formerly known as the Superdrome and later rebranded as HBF Stadium—served as the primary home venue until 2010, offering a 4,500-seat main arena suitable for growing attendances during playoff appearances.[46] In 2010, the franchise shifted to the newly constructed WA Basketball Centre (renamed Bendat Basketball Centre in 2015 following a sponsorship deal), which became the mainstay for regular-season games through 2024 to foster a more intimate fan experience and manage operational costs effectively.[47] This 2,000-capacity venue, featuring two show courts with 1,100 fixed seats and 900 retractable ones, hosted the majority of home matches during this period, emphasizing community engagement over large-scale spectacles.[48] Larger events, such as select playoffs and preseason tournaments like HoopsFest, were occasionally directed to RAC Arena (formerly Perth Arena), accommodating over 13,000 spectators for high-profile matchups that drew peak crowds.[49] Notable milestones at these venues include games during the 2019–20 WNBL season at Bendat Basketball Centre, which was shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The franchise has hosted roughly 500 regular-season games across its historical arenas, reflecting steady growth in Western Australia's women's basketball scene while adapting to venue transitions for better intimacy and efficiency post-2010.[1] Acoustic challenges at the expansive Superdrome configuration occasionally prompted adjustments in game scheduling, contributing to the eventual emphasis on mid-sized facilities.Personnel
Coaching staff
Ryan Petrik serves as the head coach of the Perth Lynx, having been appointed to the position in June 2020 after spending five years as an assistant with the team. Under his leadership, the Lynx compiled a regular-season record of 55–37 (.598) through the end of the 2024–25 campaign, with the team finishing second in the league that year at 16–5. Petrik earned the WNBL Coach of the Year award for the 2021–22 season, when he guided Perth to an 11–5 mark and a grand final appearance despite entering the competition late due to COVID-19 protocols. Petrik's approach prioritizes defensive intensity and the cultivation of homegrown talent from Western Australia, contributing to the Lynx's consistent postseason contention, including grand final runs in 2021–22 and 2023–24. In the 2025–26 season, his staff includes assistant coach Andrew Cooper, who joined the team ahead of the campaign after a background in NBL1 West coaching, focusing on player development and tactical preparation.[50] The coaching staff operates within the expanded structure enabled by Sports Entertainment Group's majority ownership of the Lynx, acquired in December 2024, which has enhanced resources for performance and medical support.[23] This season, the team has integrated high-profile import Han Xu, a 2.11 m Chinese center with WNBA and international pedigree, to bolster frontcourt depth under Petrik's direction.[31]Current roster
The Perth Lynx's 2025–26 WNBL roster features a balanced mix of experienced Australian talent and international imports, totaling 11 active players and 2 development players, with 8 Australians and 3 imports aimed at bolstering frontcourt depth and perimeter play.[51] As of November 2025, the team reports no major injuries or suspensions impacting availability.| No. | Player | Position | Height | Nationality | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | Amy Atwell | Guard | 183 cm | Australian | Team captain on multi-year contract; key perimeter leader returning from prior seasons.[51] |
| 8 | Alex Ciabattoni | Guard | 183 cm | Australian | Veteran guard with multi-year deal; provides scoring and defense off the bench.[51] |
| 24 | Anneli Maley | Forward | 185 cm | Australian | Co-captain on extended contract; versatile scorer and rebounder.[51] |
| 11 | Brianna Turner | Forward | 190 cm | American | Import forward on short-term deal; WNBA experience from Phoenix Mercury adds athleticism.[53] |
| 21 | Han Xu | Center | 211 cm | Chinese | Import center signed in October 2025 from New York Liberty; one-season slot as marquee addition for rim protection.[54] |
| 20 | Yemiyah Morris | Center | 193 cm | American | Import center; brings college pedigree from West Virginia and recent overseas experience.[55] |
| 5 | Alex Wilson | Guard | 175 cm | Australian | Steady backup guard on multi-year contract; contributes playmaking.[51] |
| 2 | Stephanie Gorman | Guard | 183 cm | Australian | Re-signed for 2025–26; emerging shooter from prior development role.[56] |
| 9 | Kiara Waite | Center | 178 cm | Australian | Young big on rookie contract; development focus with rebounding upside.[56] |
| 10 | Tegan Graham | Guard | 178 cm | Australian | Veteran addition providing backcourt depth.[51] |
| 3 | Kyana Weir | Guard | 170 cm | Australian | Development player; speedy point guard adding depth.[57] |
Notable former players
Michele Timms, a pioneering point guard, played for the Perth Breakers (the Lynx's predecessor franchise) during the 1990s, captaining the team to a WNBL championship in 1992 and earning selection to the WNBL All-Star team three times in that era. Timms' contributions extended internationally, leading to her induction into the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2012 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025 for her overall impact on women's basketball.[59][8][60] Carly Wilson emerged as a key scoring threat for the Lynx in the mid-2000s, ranking sixth in the league with 17.3 points per game during the 2006-07 season and earning a spot on the WNBL All-Star Five.[61] Her offensive prowess helped anchor the team's attack before she moved to other WNBL clubs. American import Sami Whitcomb provided dynamic playmaking for the Lynx from 2015 to 2018, culminating in a 2016 WNBL Grand Final appearance where she averaged 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across the postseason.[62] Whitcomb also secured All-Star Five honors in 2015-16, finishing third in league MVP voting that year.[63] Courtney Williams, another U.S. import, led the Lynx in scoring during the 2017-18 season with 21.3 points per game alongside 6.9 rebounds and 4.0 assists, earning team MVP honors and powering the squad to the semifinals.[64] Timms' legacy highlights the Lynx's early international influence, with the franchise having one player enshrined in major halls of fame as of 2025.Achievements
Team honours
The Perth Lynx have secured one WNBL championship in their franchise history, achieved in 1992 when the team was known as the Perth Breakers. They defeated the Dandenong Rangers 58–54 in the grand final to claim the title in their fourth season in the league.[65] The Lynx have appeared in the WNBL grand final six times overall, demonstrating consistent contention for the top honour. These appearances occurred in 1992 (win), 1993 (loss to Sydney Flames), 1999 (loss to Australian Institute of Sport), 2016 (loss to Townsville Fire 0–2), 2022 (loss to Melbourne Boomers 1–2), and 2024 (loss to Southside Flyers 1–2). In the 2022 series, the Lynx pushed the Boomers to a deciding game three but fell 84–66 after winning game one 88–67 and losing game two 71–55. The 2024 runners-up finish saw them drop game three 115–81 following a narrow 97–95 loss in game two and an 80–72 win in game one.[66][67] The team has advanced to the semi-finals 18 times (1991–1996, 1998–2000, 2016–2019, 2022–2025), including a 2nd-place regular-season finish and semi-final appearance in the 2024–25 season (0–2 loss to Townsville Fire). The Lynx have no conference titles, as the league discontinued the conference format prior to the 2010s. Additionally, they have recorded ten top-four finishes in the regular season since reclaiming the Lynx name in 2015 (2016–2019, 2021–2022, 2024–2025), underscoring their resurgence in recent years.Individual awards
Perth Lynx players and coaches have earned recognition for their defensive prowess and leadership in the WNBL, though the franchise has not produced a league MVP. Anneli Maley, who captured the Suzy Batkovic Medal as 2021/22 WNBL MVP with the Bendigo Spirit, joined the Lynx in 2023 and has since been named to the All-WNBL Second Team in 2023/24 and 2024/25.[68][69][70] The Lynx's sole Grand Final MVP came in their 1992 championship season, when guard Tanya Fisher was honored for her pivotal performance in the title-clinching victory over the Dandenong Rangers.[7] Defensive excellence has been a hallmark, with the Robyn Maher Defensive Player of the Year award going to Lynx players multiple times. Robyn Maher herself won the honor in 1992 during her tenure with the team. Tully Bevilaqua claimed it four times (1995, 1996, 1997, 1999), establishing herself as one of the league's premier perimeter defenders.[71][72]| Award | Recipient | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coach of the Year | Ryan Petrik | 2021/22 | Led Lynx to second place and Grand Final appearance.[73] |
| All-WNBL First Team | Katie Ebzery | 2019/20 | Key contributor in the truncated regular season.[74] |
| All-WNBL Second Team | Amy Atwell | 2023/24 | Sharpshooter with Olympic bronze medal experience.[69] |
| Sixth Woman of the Year | Alison Schwagmeyer | 2019/20 | Impactful bench player averaging 12.3 points per game.[75] |
| All-Star Five | Asia Taylor | 2019 | Selection as a versatile forward with the Lynx.[76] |
| All-WNBL First Team | Michele Timms | Multiple (seven career selections: 1988–1992, 1994, 1996) | Hall of Famer and Lynx legend in early 1990s.[77] |
| All-WNBL First Team | Ally Wilson | 2024/25 | League-leading performer.[70] |
| All-WNBL Second Team | Anneli Maley | 2024/25 | Rebounding leader.[70] |
References
- https://www.[espn.com](/page/ESPN.com)/nbl/story/_/id/46611651/espn-wnbl-big-preview-key-ins-outs-news
