Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Olympics
Football
Netball
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
Full Noise by SN
Lynx and Spirit ready for finals battle
SEN • February 9th, 2026 1:45 pm
The WNBL semi-finals fixture is locked in and Bendigo Spirit will face the Perth Lynx in the best-of-three series starting this weekend.
In a huge sporting coup, WA will play host to the first clash just hours before the AFL State of Origin clash gets under way at Optus Stadium.
Finishing the regular season inside the top two has secured the Lynx home‑court advantage for two games (if required), with the series opening at the Perth High Performance Centre (PHPC) on Saturday 14 February, before potentially returning to Perth for a decisive Game Three.
The Lynx and Spirit have met each other more than most teams across the 2025-26 season, with Perth taking confidence from having faced Bendigo four times already this year and claiming three wins in the process - preparation that has sharpened the group ahead of finals.
The two sides have built a strong rivalry across recent seasons, with both teams seemingly always in contention at the top end of the ladder, boasting finals experience and proven performers capable of lifting in big moments.
Finishing in the top two and securing home-court advantage is a real credit to the work this group has put in all season,” Earl said. “The players, coaches and staff have built something strong together, and they’ve earned the opportunity to play finals basketball at the Perth High Performance Centre, which is incredibly exciting.”
“This is our first full season at the Perth High Performance Centre and it’s been a fantastic home for us. The atmosphere our supporters have created here has played a huge role in driving this group, and we’re thrilled to be able to play finals basketball in front of them too as our fans deserve it.
“We know Bendigo well, having played them four times this season, and they have had a great year too. We respect the challenge they bring as the defending Champions, and us having home-court advantage at PHPC gives us the best chance to progress.”
Spirit General Manager, Dan Jackson, said the group was embracing the challenge that comes with finals basketball.
“We’re the reigning champions, so this is our title to relinquish,” Jackson said.
“While our group looks different to this time last season, we’ve shown throughout the year that we’re versatile, adaptable and capable of finding ways to win, with strong support both on and off the court. We’ve prepared well - we’ve played the Lynx more than almost any other team this season - and we’re ready for the challenge that finals basketball brings.”
“And for our Bendigo community, this is the moment - these are elite sportswomen who proudly represent this region and give so much back locally. If you’ve ever thought about coming along, Tuesday night is the night to get to Red Energy Arena and be part of it. Your support in-venue genuinely makes a difference.”
Tickets for Bendigo’s home Semi Final on February 17 go on sale this Tuesday 10 February via Ticketek. Prices start from $5 for kids and $25 for adults.
FIXTURE VIA WNBL
Saturday 14 February, 4pm AEDT
Perth Lynx v Bendigo Spirit
Perth High Performance Centre
This game will also be broadcast on game on 9Go! and ESPN2.
Perth Lynx v Bendigo Spirit
Perth High Performance Centre
This game will also be broadcast on game on 9Go! and ESPN2.
Sunday 15 February, 4pm AEDT
Townsville Fire v Southside Melbourne Flyers
Townsville Entertainment Centre
This game will also be broadcast on game on 9Go! and ESPN.
Townsville Fire v Southside Melbourne Flyers
Townsville Entertainment Centre
This game will also be broadcast on game on 9Go! and ESPN.
Tuesday 17 February, 7pm AEDT
Bendigo Spirit v Perth Lynx
Red Energy Arena
This game will also be broadcast on ESPN.
Bendigo Spirit v Perth Lynx
Red Energy Arena
This game will also be broadcast on ESPN.
Wednesday 18 February, 7pm AEDT
Southside Melbourne Flyers v Townsville Fire
Vic State Basketball Centre
This game will also be broadcast on ESPN2.
Southside Melbourne Flyers v Townsville Fire
Vic State Basketball Centre
This game will also be broadcast on ESPN2.
If required: Saturday 21 February, time TBC
Townsville Fire v Southside Melbourne Flyers
Townsville Entertainment Centre
Further broadcast details will be made available should the game be required.
Townsville Fire v Southside Melbourne Flyers
Townsville Entertainment Centre
Further broadcast details will be made available should the game be required.
If required: Sunday 22 February, time TBC
Perth Lynx v Bendigo Spirit
Perth High Performance Centre
Further broadcast details will be made available should the game be required.
Perth Lynx v Bendigo Spirit
Perth High Performance Centre
Further broadcast details will be made available should the game be required.
