WNBL's Sydney Flames lock in full-time head coach

Renae Garlepp has signed a two-year deal to continue as head coach of WNBL wooden-spoon contenders the Sydney Flames beyond 2026.

Former assistant coach Garlepp was promoted as interim coach after Guy Molloy's resignation midway through a season of injuries and disappointing results.

The eighth-placed Flames have a 3-9 record since Garlepp took charge in December, but have beaten finals-bound Bendigo in that time.

Garlepp's resume includes a stint as assistant coach for national team the Opals, and a silver medal win as Australia's coach at last year's U19 Women's World Cup.

"To lead the team that represents all of New South Wales is something I'm proud and excited to do," Garlepp said.

"For me, this is about building a program that's tough, driven and a proud reflection of the state."

Sydney likely need to upset second-placed Perth Lynx in their last game of the season to avoid the wooden spoon.

Even then, their fate will lie in the hands of seventh-placed Adelaide Lightning, who have a better percentage and host Southside for their own last game.

The Flames have been troubled by injuries all season, with Loz Nicholson, Olivia Epoupa and Isabelle Morgan among key names to have missed time.