Having sat out the opening week of the season with the bye, the Pirates will take the court against the Bendigo Braves on Sunday afternoon.
It will be the side's first appearance since its seven-point loss in last season's semi-final to Maryborough on February 1 last year.
Coach Lisa Baker said last year's finals appearance had given the side a great deal of confidence for the new season.
“I think we showed the competition, but also ourselves that we were able to compete with the top sides,” she said.
“The whole squad contributed to our season and we had a really good year, and we've been able to keep most of the group together this year which will be a huge advantage.”
Baker said while the break between seasons had been long, the team was ready to go.
“Most of the girls were doing their own fitness work in the time away, so they came back fit and ready to go,” she said.
“We've only had a short preparation in terms of our ball work, but the feeling is really good. The girls are really excited to be back out there and competing again.”
With just five games to play, there is little room for error for the side, and Baker said the team had spoken at length about their need to take opportunities.
“We know we are going to have to bring our A game for every contest,” she said.
“We don't get to have a bad performance and think we can get them back next time. We don't have that opportunity. We need to take them at the first chance we get.
“It's going to be a tough season, even though it's short. And we are going to have to play our best basketball to have a successful season.”
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