Browning back for fifth Flames campaign

Local product Shaylee Browning is hoping the pain from last year’s NBL1 North semi-final defeat can drive the A.Gabrielli Constructions Townsville Flames to new heights this season.

The 21-year-old guard will return for her fifth year in her hometown program as the Flames look to go one better than their 2024 season that ended in a tough semi-final loss to eventual champions Rockhampton Cyclones.

A proud Townsville junior, Shaylee has been a key figure in one of the most successful age groups in the club’s history, winning an incredible five state titles during her junior career

Browning is the team’s second signing for this season, joining American star Samatha Bowman who has jumped ship after played a starring role in Rockhampton’s run to last season’s title.

“I’ve been involved with the Flames since I was a development player and I really love being part of the program and representing Townsville,” Browning said.

“Obviously we won the championship a few years ago now and then being so close last year, I think it's only going to drive us further to hopefully go all the way.

“I think there will be a few of us coming back from last year as well as some new faces so it will be exciting to start pre-season a little closer to the season and then hopefully start our season well.

“A few teams have pulled out from NBL1 North from last year as well so the condensed season is going to mean that every game is going to matter.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Townsville Flames coach Claudia Brassard has high expectations for Browning as she transitions into a bigger role at the combo guard position.

“Shaylee is an extremely hard worker and her growth over the past few years is not a surprise,” Brassard said.

“She’s a versatile player who can lock down defensively and has developed into a consistent scoring threat. This season, we’ll rely on her leadership and ability to make plays under pressure.

“With her dynamic skills and relentless work ethic, Shaylee is poised to take her game to new heights in 2025.”

In 2024, Browning showcased her shooting efficiency, averaging 58% field goal percentage for the season and Brassard said her ability to knock down open shots will be important in creating space for teammates like Bowman to dominate in the paint.

As Browning prepares for a larger role with the Flames this season she will again juggle basketball duties with her physiotherapy studies this season. 

“I’m going into my last year of uni this year and it does definitely get challenging towards the back end of the semester or around exams but all of the coaches that I've been involved with have been so accommodating,” she said.

Browning will also be involved in Townsville’s under-23s program, with training for that beginning next week ahead of tournaments in February and March against the best young basketball talent that Cairns and Mackay have to offer.

The A.Gabrielli Constructions Townsville Flames and Aligned Townsville Heat will tip-off their NBL1 North campaigns on Saturday, May 3, when they host fierce rivals the Cairns Marlins and Dolphins at Carmichael Ford Stadium.