By Chris Wilson

The Canberra Capitals were the pride of the ball last night as the club celebrated back-to-back Women's National Basketball League championships.

Dressed to impress, the Capitals were honoured by a crowd of more than 130 at their annual presentation evening.

Inspirational Capitals captain Lucille Bailie said it was wonderful to celebrate the occasion in style.

"It's great to leave the bodysuits behind and frock up," Bailie said. "I have great respect for my team-mates as athletes and basketballers, but they're wonderful female role models and it's wonderful to see them in this light.

"It's special to be able to take the time together because in the off-season we do go our separate ways. We can sit down, relax and reflect on our success together."

The Capitals presented the passing coach Tom Maher with the framed ball from the grand final. Maher, who spent half his time between Canberra and Sydney during the season, said there was a unique atmosphere at the club.

"That was the joy for me this year, the fact that a lot of our success was team-driven. They all get on really well, it's a super team harmony.

"It was fun for me to be able to coach a team and at the same time be friends."

Australian women's basketball legend Michele Timms was MC for the night, inviting all the players up on to a couch for interviews - Timmsy's Tonight Show, she called it.

Of course Lauren Jackson won the major award, the club's Most Valuable Player, but it was a night the Capitals were able to celebrate together.

Earlier in the day the Capitals attended a reception hosted by Minister for Sport Ted Quinlan at the ACT Legislative Assembly.

"Our national sporting teams are an integral part of our community and this great win by the Capitals provided an enormous lift at a time when we all needed it," Mr Quinlan said.

Opposition sport spokesman Bill Stefaniak has also called on the Government to commemorate the Capitals with an honorary walk, similar to the plaque laid for the Raiders outside the Sydney building in Civic.