Sydney Uni Flames American import Jennifer Hamson makes presence felt ahead of WNBL

HER name has already been shortened, she’s had her first taste of vegemite and in just one game the Sydney Uni Flames’ newest American import has shown she’s a perfect fit for the club.

Sydney Flames Jennifer Hamson is set to make a big impact in the WNBL.

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HER name has already been shortened, she’s had her first taste of vegemite and in just two warm-up games the Sydney Uni Flames’ newest American import has shown she’s a perfect fit for the club.

And while she’s still struggling to understand hear fast-talking teammates, towering American import Jennifer Hamson has made an impression in her first big hit outs for the Sydney team.

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Hamson scored 26 points as the Flames chased momentum heading into the October start of the WNBL with an 11 point win over defending champions Townsville Fire at home last weekend.

The 201cm centre also nailed eight rebounds to top score in the pre-season match the Flames started with a bang and nailed with an 11-0 run in the final period.

Townsville Fire and Perth Lynx are expected to be two of the leading teams in the WNBL.

“I was just excited to get out there and play,’’ said Hamson who joined the club at the start of the month.

“There’s been a bit of an adjustment but thinks are looking okay.’’

Hamson then backed up on Saturday with 17 points, six rebounds and five assists in the Flames’ practice match against Perth which the Sydney team lost 85-69.

While comfortable on the court, Hamson admits she is still struggling with the Australian accent.

“I kept saying to everyone that we were going to Markay for the first match and they had no idea what I was talking about because I later found out you pronounced it Mackay,’’ said the Brigham Young University star who played in the WNBA with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2015 alongside Australian stars Marianna Tolo and Erin Phillips.

The Flames and Townsville in action last season.

“But I had my first taste of vegemite on the weekend and I don’t mind it at all.’’

New Flames coach Cheryl Chambers said she is impressed with Hamson.

“She’s really adaptable, she’s smart, a great helper and she doesn’t get in too close and foul which is sometimes an issue with the imports. And she can score as well,’’ Chambers said.
The form of Hamson, the recent arrival of fellow American Asia Taylor and the signing of Opal Leilani Mitchell will boost the Flames ahead of their season opener against Perth Lynx on October 7 at Brydens Stadium in Sydney.

The team is still coming to terms with an injury to star point guard Tahlia Tupaea which will sideline her until around Christmas.