2020 Canberra Capitals season – Knowipedia – The Next Generation of Global Knowledge

**2020 Canberra Capitals season**

The 2020 Canberra Capitals season was the 37th season for the franchise in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL). Under the guidance of head coach Paul Goriss, the Capitals competed in a condensed season held in a hub format due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ultimately finishing as runners-up in the championship.

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## 2020 Canberra Capitals season

The 2020 season marked the 37th campaign for the Canberra Capitals in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL), Australia’s premier women’s basketball competition. The season was unique due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a revised schedule and format. The Capitals, led by head coach Paul Goriss and captain Kelsey Griffin, adapted to these challenges and delivered a strong performance throughout the season, culminating in a grand final appearance.

### Background

The Canberra Capitals are one of the most successful teams in WNBL history, with multiple championships to their name. Entering the 2020 season, the Capitals aimed to continue their tradition of excellence despite the uncertainties caused by the pandemic. The WNBL announced a condensed season to be played in a hub in North Queensland, with all teams competing in a six-week schedule from mid-November to late December 2020.

### Impact of COVID-19 on the 2020 Season

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the 2020 WNBL season. To minimize travel and ensure player safety, the league adopted a hub model, hosting all games in three cities in North Queensland: Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay. The season was shortened from the usual five months to just six weeks, with each team playing 14 regular-season games.

This format required teams to adapt quickly to a compressed schedule and limited preparation time. The Capitals, like other teams, faced challenges related to player fitness, team chemistry, and mental health due to the isolation and bubble environment.

### Team Roster

The 2020 Canberra Capitals roster combined experienced veterans with emerging talent. Key players included:

– **Kelsey Griffin (Captain)**: An American-Australian forward known for her leadership, rebounding, and scoring ability.
– **Mikhaela Donnelly**: A versatile guard contributing both offensively and defensively.
– **Olivia Époupa**: A dynamic French point guard who provided playmaking and defensive intensity.
– **Marianna Tolo**: A veteran center known for her inside presence and shot-blocking.
– **Leilani Mitchell**: An experienced guard with strong ball-handling and scoring skills.
– **Maddy Garrick**: A young guard who showed promise with her shooting and defensive efforts.

The team also included other role players and development athletes who contributed throughout the season.

### Coaching Staff

– **Head Coach**: Paul Goriss, who had been with the Capitals since 2013, continued to lead the team with a focus on defense and team-oriented basketball.
– **Assistant Coaches**: The coaching staff supported player development and game strategy, adapting to the unique challenges of the hub season.

### Preseason and Preparation

Due to the pandemic, traditional preseason activities were limited. The Capitals conducted training camps under strict health protocols and focused on conditioning and team cohesion. The coaching staff emphasized mental resilience and adaptability to prepare players for the compressed season and hub environment.

### Regular Season Performance

The Capitals began the season strongly, quickly establishing themselves as one of the top contenders. Their defensive intensity and balanced scoring made them difficult to beat. The team finished the regular season with a record of 10 wins and 4 losses, securing second place on the ladder behind the Southside Flyers.

Key regular-season highlights included:

– A dominant win over the Perth Lynx, showcasing the Capitals’ defensive prowess.
– Close contests against the Southside Flyers, which set the tone for a competitive rivalry.
– Consistent contributions from Kelsey Griffin and Olivia Époupa, who were instrumental in the team’s success.

### Statistical Leaders

– **Kelsey Griffin** led the team in rebounds and was among the top scorers.
– **Olivia Époupa** averaged high assists per game, orchestrating the offense.
– **Leilani Mitchell** provided scoring bursts off the bench.
– **Marianna Tolo** contributed significantly in blocks and interior defense.

### Finals Series

The WNBL finals were held immediately following the regular season in the same hub environment. The Capitals faced the Southside Flyers in the semi-finals, winning convincingly to advance to the grand final.

#### Grand Final

The grand final pitted the Canberra Capitals against the Southside Flyers in a best-of-three series. The Capitals won the first game, demonstrating their championship pedigree. However, the Flyers rallied to win the next two games, clinching the title.

Despite the loss, the Capitals’ performance was widely praised for their resilience and teamwork under challenging circumstances.

### Player Awards and Honors

– **Kelsey Griffin** was named to the WNBL All-Star Five for her outstanding season.
– **Olivia Époupa** received recognition for her playmaking and defensive efforts.
– Several Capitals players were acknowledged for their contributions to the team’s success.

### Season Challenges

The 2020 season presented numerous challenges:

– The compressed schedule tested player endurance and recovery.
– The hub environment required players to live in isolation from family and friends.
– Travel restrictions and health protocols limited traditional team activities.

The Capitals’ ability to maintain focus and cohesion was a testament to their professionalism and leadership.

### Legacy and Impact

The 2020 Canberra Capitals season demonstrated the team’s adaptability and competitive spirit in unprecedented times. Although they fell short of a championship, their performance reinforced their status as a premier WNBL franchise. The experience gained during the hub season contributed to the development of younger players and set a foundation for future success.

### Season Summary

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## See also

– Women’s National Basketball League
– Canberra Capitals
– 2020 WNBL season

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## References

*Note: This article is based on compiled data and reports from the 2020 WNBL season and the Canberra Capitals’ official communications.*

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**Meta Description:**
The 2020 Canberra Capitals season was marked by a condensed WNBL schedule held in a hub due to COVID-19, with the team finishing as runners-up under coach Paul Goriss and captain Kelsey Griffin.