Sydney Uni Flames and Opals player Leilani Mitchell says basketballers could play both AFL and WNBL

OPAL Leilani Mitchell believes the countries top basketballers could double-up and compete in both the WNBL and AFL Women’s if the two competition schedules do not conflict.

Leilani Mitchell (far right), with coach Cheryl Chambers and captain Belinda Snell, was the WNBL grand final MVP. Pic: Michael Klein

OPAL Leilani Mitchell believes the countries top basketballers could double-up and compete in both the WNBL and AFL Women if the two competition schedules do not conflict.

The Opals guard has also indicated she is keen to rejoin the ranks of the Sydney Uni Flames — but not an AFL team — next season after the club won its first grand final in 16 years on Friday night.

The Flames beat Dandenong 91-82 in their first game of the grand final series a week ago then 75-62 on Friday, with Mitchell named MVP of the series.

“I’d love to come back. This is a vey special team of players. I’ve loved the experience,” Mitchell said.

Speculation is rife next year’s WNBL season will be shortened to end before the kick-off of the second season of AFL women.

Mitchell believes the basketballers could easily cross over to AFL. Pic: Michael Klein

It is understood such a plan would make it more attractive to broadcasters, with Fox Sports touted as a potential home for the 2017/18 WNBL.

In a major blow for the sport, the 2016/2017 competition failed to attract a broadcaster with a few games, including Friday nights second game of the grand final, live streamed.

But the quality of the competition, rated as one of the top three in the world and boasting multiple Opals players, demands it receives more coverage in line with other leading women’s competitions, including Super Netball, the AFL and the women’s Big Bash League.

“We need to do what we have to get back on TV,” Mitchell said.

The Flames won their first title in 16 years on Friday night. Pic: Michael Klein

“We need people seeing games. Seeing the quality of this league.’’

While basketballers Erin Phillips and Jess Bibby have made an impact in the first season of AFL Women, Mitchell said more from the sport could follow.

“I think they could play both (the WNBL and AFL) if the dates worked,” Mitchell said.

“I think it would be great if they are the sort of athletes who could do both.

“The more options for women the better.”

Mitchell has only a little time to savour her first WNBL crown with the point guard due to fly to the US to link up with her Phoenix team mates in the WNBA later this month.