Perth Lynx captain Darcee Garbin showing her class in early stages of WNBL season

Perth Lynx coach Ryan Petrik has paid tribute to captain Darcee Garbin, saying her appointment and performances have highlighted her unique ability to handle any scenarios.

Garbin was appointed as Lynx captain for the first time following Katie Ebzery’s retirement. She is leading a team that includes former Lynx skipper, and Australian Opals captain, Sami Whitcomb along with Olympic gold medallist Jackie Young and dominant American Marina Mabrey.

But her ability to lead by example when the games are up for grabs has been telling.

A crucial third quarter buzzer beater in the opening game against Adelaide was followed by Garbin tying the scores to force overtime with a three-pointer in the last 10 seconds of regular time against Southside.

Her performances at both ends of the floor have been important with Garbin averaging 13 points, five rebounds, two steals, one block and one assist per game.

Petrik said she was doing a remarkable job.

“I don’t know if I’d be keen to captain this team because we have got some big, big names on our roster, but she’s taken it in her stride,” Petrik said.

“She’s a natural leader. She’s the classic country kid. You wouldn’t find a person in Australia that would say a bad word about her. Everyone from every team loves her. Every coach loves her. She is just a dream to coach. Her being captain as a West Aussie is one of the better things about our program.”

Garbin’s leadership and skill will again be vital when the Lynx face the in form Melbourne Boomers on Monday. The Boomers have a 5-2 record and a roster packed with talent.

But Petrik said Garbin was relishing every challenge thrown at her.

“She’s blossoming and she has been for the last three years,” he said.

“Everyone could see it coming. But we still haven’t seen the best of Darcee.

“We started to see that in the second half of the hub season. She’s been really good at playing her role and doing her thing.

“The reality of this team this year is that everybody is going to have to sacrifice a little bit because we’ve got so many star players.”