Ash Isenbarger dominates as Perth Lynx thrash Canberra Capitals in WNBL

Ash Isenbarger has produced the best game of her WNBL career with five three-pointers after coming off the bench as Perth Lynx destroyed Canberra 102-73 in Ballarat.

Isenbarger entered the night with only 16 three-pointers from her 70-game career but hit a purple patch as she scored 19 points in a stellar performance.

The 24-year-old only returned to the league last season after taking a year off but made a statement about how far she’s come.

“She had a game similar to that when playing for Melbourne against us in Perth but that is clearly her best game in a Lynx jersey,” coach Ryan Petrik said.

“She has been terrific for us and just needs more opportunity. It’s just unfortunate for her that she’s got Darcee Garbin and Lauren Scherf having career-best years in front of her at the moment.

“But every time she hits the floor, she has been great. So now I need to make an adjustment to get her on more.”

The Lynx trailed by three points at half-time but dominated the third period 29-7 to blow the game apart.

Darcee Garbin was outstanding with 24 points and nine rebounds while Lauren Scherf continued her brilliant form with 15 points and 14 rebounds.

Import Marina Mabrey endured a frustrating night. Mabrey made an instant impact on the WNBL with 80 points from her first three games but that attracted added attention, she fouled out against Melbourne, had foul issues against Canberra and scored nine points.

But it was the highest score of any team this season and Petrik said the performance was hard to fault.

“The second half was elite defensively. Our attitude and effort went to through the roof,” Petrik said.

“Our offence is always going to go well. But if our defence gets to that level, we are always going to be a chance.”