What happened: The Sydney Flames controlled their first home date of the WNBL27 campaign against the Adelaide Lightning following a 1 p.m. AEDT tipoff. Guard Lauren Nicholson earned Sephora Player of the Game honors after recording an afternoon double-double to lift Sydney into first place in the standings.

Why it matters: Claiming the early ladder lead gives Sydney immediate momentum during the six-game WNBL27 Opening Week slate that tipped off Oct. 15. The victory also counters the Oct. 11 meeting in which Adelaide suppressed Sydney's transition game and attempted 50 three-pointers.

What to watch: Sydney looks to defend top spot on the ladder as the WNBL27 schedule continues on 9Now and ESPN via Disney+. Adelaide regroups ahead of its next Opening Week fixture after dropping the road matchup.