Star import Nayo Raincock-Ekunwe has the undefeated Bendigo Spirit soaring as they prepare to hit the road in the WNBL.
A member of the Canadian team at the Rio Olympics, Raincock-Ekunwe has wasted little time making an impact on a Bendigo side determined to improve after missing the playoffs last season.
The 188cm forward's 18 points and 14 rebounds helped the Spirit claim their second win of the season with a 59-44 triumph over Dandenong Rangers, with frontcourt partner Kelsey Griffin also impressing.
Coach Simon Pritchard is excited by Raincock-Ekunwe's contributions on both ends of the floor with a versatility which allows her to compete in the paint but also guard smaller players.
"It's not just the boards, it's the fact she gets the one she's not supposed to get," he told AAP.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"She gets the ones where you've got to jump through the key and superman them to get them. She's pretty sensational and she's versatile. I have no problems with switching her onto a guard, and that's unusual for a big."
After winning their first two games at home, the Spirit will host Sydney on Friday before a three-game road trip including games in Melbourne, Dandenong and Townsville.
"That'll be the real test of how we're going," Pritchard said.
Elsewhere, Perth Lynx claimed an 88-85 come-from-behind win over the Melbourne Boomers before losing on the road to Dandenong.
The University of Canberra Capitals beat Adelaide Lightning 70-64 on Friday and backed it up on Sunday with a win over Sydney Uni, while Townsville Fire thrashed the Lightning 85-56.
