Basketball On The Internet.

DOWN a key player in WNBA import Kayla Alexander, Adelaide today played exemplary defence and unveiled a superstar in Nia Coffey as it took down the Lynx in Perth 78-66 in their opening game of WNBL Season 2018-19.

A versatile WNBA forward, Coffey finished with a 19-point, 15-rebound double-double, plus three assists as Lightning put Perth to the sword.

Second and third quarter returns of 19-10 and 19-10 had Lightning on the road to a famous win, their lead blowing out to 18 during the final quarter.

Late baskets from the Lynx, including a remarkable spin move and score from Alison Schwagmeyer, gave some measure of hope before Adelaide again sharpened up, the final scoreline flattering the home team.

Lightning shot at 43 per cent from the floor, keeping Perth to 35 per cent, and also won the boards 53-35.

That was arguably the single most telling stat, considering Alexander, a renowned rebounder, still is recovering from injury for Lightning.

Colleen Planeta hit 16 points, Lauren Nicholson with 15 at 62 per cent, Adelaide's other glaring stats disparity its 20 assists to 11, Perth once again often left to individual players' devices.

Asia Taylor led the Lynx with 16 points but they appear to have a lot of work ahead to come anywhere near last season's regular season championship and semi final exit.