Stray knee to sideline Boomers star

THE WNBL has sensationally slapped Opals superstar Liz Cambage with a two- match ban after an investigation found she deliberately kneed an opponent.

Canberra player Mistie Bass crashed to the floor after the Melbourne Boomers star recruit charged into her from behind in the Boomers’ attacking key during Saturday’s 96- 66 Melbourne victory.

After footage came to light, the WNBL referred the incident to its game review panel, which yesterday found her guilty of “unduly rough play” and imposed a two- game ban.

The Boomers can take an early plea today and reduce the ban to one match.

The club last night had not said which course it would take. If it does challenge the case it will be heard by a single- member tribunal tonight, and if unsuccessful, the two- ban penalty will stand.

A second Cambage incident from the match was reviewed but not acted on. American import Bass was clearly upset by the contact and has “liked” several comments on Twitter condemning Cambage’s actions.

“Wow! That’s unacceptable! I hope the WNBL look into the incident. Sorry you were subjected to that poor behaviour,” one fan wrote.

Cambage has been in MVP form since returning to the national league from an extended absence and scored 32 points and had 11 rebounds in the Boomers’ win over Canberra.

She is leading the competition for average points per game at 22.5. Her efforts have helped guide the Boomers to second place on the ladder.

The suspension drama comes at a crucial time with the Boomers to take on ladder leaders Townsville tomorrow and third- placed Sydney on Sunday.