Four of the starting five last season announced their intention to depart the Tornadoes after reaching the SEABL women's grand final.

Ex-captain Lauren Mansfield has taken the winter off to rest her battered body for the rigours of Australian Opals selection, but Lauren Nicholson, Ellie Collins and Ally Wilson have continued playing at rival NBL1 clubs.

Launceston-raised Tayla Roberts had left Dandenong Rangers in the offseason, but has opted for Hobart Huskies over returning home.

The Torns have slumped to 14th with a 2-5 record are in jeopardy of missing the finals for the first time since 2014.

"Obviously, we do have a brand new team now," coach Derrick Washington said.

"None of the girls have play with each other. We still have players in and out, so every game has been a challenge.

"That's why I like to coach: to see who can do what. We've got to try and win games, but we are getting better."

Nicholson has continued her 2018 MVP form for Kilsyth, averaging 24.2 points, five rebounds and 4.7 assists.

This was after Nicholson told the club she was seeking a deal to play in Europe.

Collins, who returned back to Hobart, has averaged 18.8 points, 7.3 rebounds and 5.6 assists for the Huskies.

Roberts has also been in strong form with 17.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists.

American Brittany Hodges has numbers in reach of the top three former Torns, averaging 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds. Stephanie Gardner has 17.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and five assists per game.

Washington had turned the club's fortunes around last year from a 1-4 start to win 14 of their final 18 games.

The players struggled initially until they adjusted to the coach's fast-tempo style.

"I don't compare this side to last year," he said.

"It's really totally different because you've got to go with what you've got."

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