Tornadoes player Olivia Howard has bounced back from injury and was a standout performer during last weekend's season opener.
THE Launceston Tornadoes face another tough challenge taking on the Brisbane Lady Spartans in their second home game of the SEABL season at Elphin Sports Centre tonight.
The Tornadoes fought hard against the Hobart Lady Chargers for three quarters in their season-opener last week, before a lack of height and rebounding strength told in their 83-69 defeat.
The Lady Spartans are coming off a convincing win against Canberra and will again challenge the Torns in the post position with their size and strength. Brisbane did not hit a three-point shot all game against Canberra, so its ability to get the ball inside through penetration and post play will be a key for the Torns to contain and limit in the half court.
The Lady Spartans boast significant WNBL experience, with Mikhaela Donnelly, Jasmine Hooper, Kristen Barnes and Holly Smith, who all suited up for the Logan Thunder.
Brisbane will look to these four again against the Tornadoes this weekend, as well as experienced players in Karlie Currie and Rachel Pryor.
``Brisbane are going to be a bit of a challenge for us as Hobart was last week, with their quality post players and guards,'' Tornadoes coach Peta Sinclair said.
``I was happy with our effort for three quarters last week, and we were pretty good.''
The Tornadoes will again look to get a good start to the game through Lauren Mansfield, Olivia Howard, Emma Russell, Katina Mandylaris and Mariah Payne, and have added significant experience with Alicia Riley and Zoe Mitchell taking to the court this weekend to add some physicality, size, and veteran play.
``Alicia played last week and did quite well with her experience and leadership and Zoe has come back this week after being interstate and it's good to have her suit up,'' Sinclair said.
``I will suit up again this week as we're still looking to fill that post position as a back-up in case our post players get in foul trouble.''