Asia Taylor the Sydney Uni Flames’ WNBL ‘X-factor’

SHE came to Australia to learn more about her game but now Asia Taylor is schooling local rivals in how to make a big mark in the WNBL with a career-best performance.

Asia Taylor is in outstanding form ahead of the WNBL playoffs.

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SHE came to Australia to learn more about her game but now Asia Taylor is schooling local rivals in how to make a big mark in the WNBL.

Flames coach Cheryl Chambers has labelled the American import her ‘X-factor’ as the Flames attempt to win Sydney’s first WNBL crown since the 2000/01 season.

Taylor’s career-best performance against the dangerous Perth Lynx in round 15 has helped consolidate the Sydney Uni Flames second place on the league ladder.

It has also confirmed her spot as one of the stars of the WNBL in her first foray in the Australian league.

Asia Taylor has been a force both offensively and defensively.

“She was just outstanding,’’ said Flames coach Cheryl Chambers of Taylor, who snagged 32 points, nine rebounds and five assists in the 90-78-point come-from-behind victory over Perth on Saturday.

“Asia was pretty determined. She felt like she had a couple of flat weeks. Part of that is we do have different answers to things, different options.

“But she is such an X-factor when she comes.’’

Opal Leilani Mitchell (17 point and 11 rebounds) was also outstanding for the Flames against Perth with Chambers hoping both beer stars fire ion a tough two-game road trip this round.

The Flames are looking good to make the playoffs this season.

The Flames head to Canberra on Australia Day to take on the Canberra Capitals before flying to Townsville to tackle the Suzy Batkovic captained Fire.

“We are chasing the split against both these sides so it is important,’’ Chambers said.

Dandenong continues.to lead the WNBL with four rounds of the regular season to play.