Looks like a slow start to Free Agency across the WNBL. According to The Basket Case, signings to date:

Adelaide

Chelsea Brook
Aimie Clydesdale
Lauren Nicholson
Natalie Novosel
Colleen Planeta
Nicole Seekamp

Bendigo

Nadeen Payne
Kara Tessari

Canberra

Keely Froling
Lauren Scherf

Dandenong

Tessa Lavey
Carley Mijovic
Rebecca Pizzey
Kiera Rowe

Melbourne

Monique Conti
Chelsea D'Angelo
Ash Grant
Jenna O’Hea
Kalani Purcell

Perth

Sami Whitcomb

Sydney

Shanea Graves
Lara McSpadden
Tahlia Tupaea
Alex Wilson

Townsville

Suzy Batkovic
Micaela Cocks
Darcee Garbin
Tess Madgen

Madgen's a good get for Townsville - hopefully she can come back bigger and better from her ACL injury. She certainly could press for the Opals WC side if she gets back to her pre-injury levels.

Kelly Wilson won't be coming back to Townsville and plans on playing in Bendigo or starting a family. Wiese and Mincy are open to having discussions to come back for a second season.

Great signing for the Fire.


Mandatory annual plug:
Basket Case 2018 WNBL offseason tracker

let's see what goes on in April WNBA camps - who will be around, who is in form and suitable for Australian league. Watched Kalani Brown playing for Baylor the other day v Texas - has an awesome game, great future.

Megan Hustwaite tweeted the other week that the Boomers were very keen on signing Leilani to replace Liz as their 'marquee' player. I can't help but think should that occur one of Cole and Smart would have to make way. I thought coming in to the season they had too many guards to distribute minutes that they deserve, but they certainly wouldnt be able to if they add a guard the calibre of Mitchell into the mix.

Geez, Leilani racking up the teams that she has played for!

Mitchell, Smart & Cole would make for a very nice guard rotation IMO, but I guess they'll also want to provide an opportunity for Conti to step up, so yeah, I guess they'll likely need to let someone go.
Cutting Smart would free up an import spot to give them more flexibility to sign a big, but with Cole's health history it might be the safer bet for them to let her go.

That's disappointing. chambers would have been a good get for Rangers, hope they can find a good coach for next season

As a Rangers fan, I look forward to seeing Larissa coming back to coach.

Abby is officially listed as a free agent

A Letter To... Basketball
- By Chloe Molloy

I think the jury is still out on how the AFLW will go, but if the AFL is committed then it certainly has the money to push it a long way (and push a lot of poorer sports out of the way in the process).

I don't know how long Chloe has been playing footy but she's a natural at it.

I think Molloy played juniors then stopped to play basketball and only came back to footy last year a few months before she got drafted. Was drafted as a forward and had only really played there before the AFLW season started, so only just started to play up back but geez she's talented for someone still so raw.

But for sure it certainly looks like her move payed off - IMO if she had've stayed she would've ended up stuck coming off the bench unless she improved dramatically.

Brittney Smart signs with Sydney for 2 seasons. Nice pickup.
(and answers the question we were asking above about how Melbourne makes room for Mitchell)

I like that move by Sydney, she'll definitely add a lot of energy to that lineup which looked a bit patchy in terms of guard depth especially without Tupaea. If they could get Asia Taylor back as well I reckon they could be a pretty tenacious duo.

Look I'd be very surprised if Kunek left Perth.. Their game style suits her well and I thought I read somewhere that she said she was planning on re-signing. Though I guess if they're cutting their budget there may not be enough to pay her what she'd deserve. I hope they aren't about to become a cellar dweller like the old west coast waves.

^agree totally, not a player I'd have imagined Chambers would pick, but if Boomers are looking to get Mitchell’s, they still have Conti fir another 3 yrs, and Cole is unlikely to move as she’s the only player that’s stayed with Molloy, then it’s probably a good move for her, but she’s going to go as one of Sydney’s imports as she’s still a USA citizen

Kelsey Griffin to Canberra for 2 years

Bendigo are going to need some big signings to stay a WNBL level team

Wehrung to Bendigo apparently, and Ezi to pursue college instead of WNBL.

Can't believe Cole would want out,
Smart is now naturalised so not an import for Sydney
Wehrung to Bendigo is believable, but Ezi to college, don’t think it’s the smartest move for one whose already in the Opals line up

According to Boti, the Boomers will be signing Leilani Mitchell, Cayla George and Steph Talbot and won't be re-signing Bec Cole. If that's true, that is some sort of lineup with O'Hea still contracted as well.

It'll be a shame to see Cole go, she was one of the very few who remained loyal to the Boomers from Bulleen-Melbourne and the ownership drama as well.

http://www.botinagy.com/blog/leilani-opals-and-boomers/
(link to the boti article from prev post)

Mansfield to Perth confirmed

No better place than Perth to speed up her game though.

Mansfield to Perth? Not sure that is a great fit as she's a ball dominant PG & can dribble the air out of the basketball at times.



Lol she's got to get it off Whitcomb first

I'm assuming that Mansfield signing unfortunately means no Courtney Williams re-signing with Perth..

http://www.canberratimes.com.au/sport/act-sport/wnbl-canberra-capitals-forward-kate-gaze-signs-with-adelaide-lightning-20180313-h0xeo7.html

Kate Gaze is also off to Adelaide - which shocks me given that she signed with the Capitals SEABL with the intention of re-signing in Canberra, but anyway.

A bit of signing news around the past few days:

- Belinda Snell re-signed by Sydney

- Jaz Shelley (amateur contract) and Cayla George signed by the Boomers.

Really like that Shelley signing, it'll be interesting to see what she can do at the top level. Still surprised by George leaving Townsville, but Boti was right on the money with this one.

Boomers resign Maddie Garrick

"I'm really pleased Maddie is returning. We know she is an outstanding player who, though solid through last season, didn’t hit the heights she herself expected," explained Molloy.

“However, she is unbelievably dedicated and has her own points to prove. Therefore we expect she will be a very dangerous player by the time October rolls around.”

Garrick is the eighth player to be announced by the Boomers, joining Jenna O’Hea, Cayla Francis, Jaz Shelley, Monique Conti, Chelsea D’Angelo, Ash Grant and Kalani Purcell.

Tomorrow a new player will be welcomed to the Boomers Family in yet another exciting announcement for Melbourne’s WNBL team.


Going to be a long season sitting on the bench for either De Angelo or Shelley, maybe even both

I'd say both.. I think Shelley and D'Angelo will be replacing Ott and Burton's minutes essentially.

In other signing news Shanae Greaves and Lara McSpadden are both returning for Sydney next season.

Miela Goodchild has committed to Duke University so won't be back for Townsville.

Boomers now sign Steph Talbot, another guard, hope those young ones get some cushions to sit on.

Dandenong need to sort out their coaching staff before they can get any players, hear they have been chatting to a well known name , but not sure they would be an improve or not.

Can't see Garrick starting in that lineup.. surely she would've stayed on for the chance of a championship cause she sure as hell won't be getting anywhere near the 30 odd mpg she'd been getting in previous seasons. IMO at this stage I'd think their starting 5 would be Mitchell, O'Hea, Talbot, Purcell (or import), George. Pretty damn dangerous and a fair upgrade on last season IMO.

Someone like Bec Cole to Dandenong perhaps?

I'd love to see Allen and Kunek back at the boomers, but I honestly can't see them willing to come off the bench. Though in saying that when I saw the silhouettes they posted, the one of the right could definitely pass as either of the two.

Has Mitchell even signed with Boomers or is that just an assumption

"Canberra could be a contender if...

Hurst?
Import SG..
Allen?
Griffin
Tolo?"

Does anyone seriously think that Tolo will be playing next season after doing her ACL in late February? There's no chance of Bec Allen landing in Canberra either. Griffin is a great signing but they've got a lot of work to do.

Leilani Mitchell to Canberra is interesting.

Boti was doing well with his dart throws until this.

"Boti was doing well with his dart throws until this."

It just goes to show, when you're right 50% of the time, you're wrong 50% of the time.

Wonder where Hurst lands now?

Yeah, a slightly unexpected signing for me. Leilani is obviously world class but they already were very strong at PG with Hurst. I would have thought they'd keep Nat and maybe look to another position to spend the big bucks on a star.
Anyway it's a fair indication that the Caps mean business. Great to have Mitchell back in the league.

I'm surprised re Leilani - even Megan Hustwaite was saying the Boomers had her. My guess on Hurst would be either one last crack at Europe or retirement, I can't see her choosing to play anywhere else in the league.

Ezi to Melbourne for 3 years. I thought she was college bound for sure

Not sure if NCAAW is the best path for a player as talented as Ezi.

She will get drafted to the wnba next year (not sure of her exact age), likely in the top 5-15 or earlier.

After 4 years at an elite college she could be a top 1-5 pick.

There are risks though, injuries, getting recruited over and having minutes cut, and 4 years is a long time to be an amateur.

She will continue to develop in the wnbl, wnba and Opals program over the next few years and will be earning money as a professional during that time and could be ready for big Euro/Russia/China contracts by the time people her age are just finishing up school.

Elena Delle Donne left Geno's program after a short period of time.
I'm not sure how she even made the wnba...

Anyway mods can move this thread to the Women's forum? Hard to find otherwise.

Some interesting signings! Boomers look set to be team to beat. Not sure what happening at Perth if all the funding is drying up, Bendat Boom or Bust? :/

On Conti, I did laugh a bit when on Offsiders it was suggested she was near the Opals side for CWG.

Can anyone confirm....I'm rumours there’s problems at Dandenong, players not happy with coaching and relationships strained between coach and some players. Is Anderson under contract for 2018/19 season? I’d be sorry to see her go, results for her first two seasons were excellent, last season was riddled with injuries.

The whispers coming out of Dandenong about strained relationships between Anderson and the playing group are certainly getting louder, I wasn't aware that included management. Somethings obviously changed, she seemed to have such a good rapport with the players when she was coaching the SEABL team. You make some good points about the injuries, player management and recruitment. At 38 the Spanish import was a huge gamble. Why they choose to bring Assistant coach Sam Richards out of retirement is beyond me, I’m sure that more than raised s few eyebrows around the league. Is Anderson out of contract or does she have one more year to go?

Caps have signed Tolo.
I wonder how much of the season she'll actually be able to play. If it's a significant amount then they're starting to look pretty legit with Mitchell & Griffin already on board.

2018 WNBL offseason tracker

"Caps have signed Tolo.
I wonder how much of the season she'll actually be able to play. If it's a significant amount then they're starting to look pretty legit with Mitchell & Griffin already on board."

You'd have to assume she isn't going to play much (if at all) given she only tore her ACL in February. Sounds like the Boomers are announcing another player today. Can they go one better without Liz?

It will be tough, but Cambageless teams have won the past 7 WNBL titles so it's certainly possible.

Glad to see Caps are really re-loading. Even if they only get Tolo back late in the season they look like contenders

Lindsay Allen > Melbourne Boomers

Bendigo are making an announcement tomorrow at 10.30 am as well

Another WNBA player coming down under. Nice.

I'll be watching her 3 point shooting with interest this season (assuming she sticks on the Libs roster), because her college numbers seem solid, but in the WNBA her career total is 0-13.

Nat Hurst to Bendigo (is official)

Hurst to bendigo

Tolo has confirmed to Canberra. Huge signing if she can get fit, well done Caps.

I don't think that's a fair conclusion to jump to. Another explanation would be that the Caps just signed the (clear) #1 aussie point guard, so it doesn't make sense financially for Canberra, or playing-wise for Hurst, for her to sign with the same team since she's still one of the best in the league too.

I'm fairly certain I read in one of the articles re Hurst that she wanted to test out her worth in free agency as she was promised a good pay raise by the Caps previous management which I'm assuming wasn't matched by the new management (which IMO is fair enough given she won't be playing too many more seasons), Caps didn't want to wait around and see what she would do - fair enough too, and signed Leilani instead.

To date I believe they've retained Scherf (existing multi year contract), Froling and Rocci while they've lost Wehrung, Hurst, Magbegor and Gaze.

It'll be interesting to see what happens with Jarry, she has signed with Sandringham SEABL but is yet to play a game with them..

Well just as I've mentioned Jarry she's popped up for her debut game with Sandringham today.. 28 points, 6 boards and 3 assists in just the 25 mins!

Kelsey Griffin has been waived by the Sun as she is unable to attend their training camp due to her hip injury. To be honest, that concerns me given she had supposedly recovered from that to play Comm Games, so if it's flared up again thats not good at all.

Any word on whether Dandenong are looking for a new coach or are they going to stick with Anderson? Is Anderson under contract?

If this topic gets too long and unwieldy and it's appropriate to create team-specific off-season threads or major signings, go for it. Just remember to categorise them as "Women" so they're easy to find amidst everything else.

Re Perth Lynx....

With Clint Steindl still contracted with the Wildcats, you would assume Kayla Standish will be back with the Lynx.

I also heard that Alex Ciabattoni will be re-signing.

What's the go with Ali Schwagmeyer? Had a couple of cameo appearances last season as a replacement import, and at the time it was said that she was close to getting her permanent residency. She's tearing it up again in the WA SBL (as she does) and would be a very handy addition if she was classed as a non-import.

Ash Grant also back in Perth so maybe the one season over in Melbourne was enough for her? You would think that if the Boomers were serious about keeping her, then she would be playing in their BigV team, not back here in the SBL.

I guess Ash Grant kinda sorta covers the vacancy left by Olivia Thompson (who I gather is is heading back to her home state).
I hope Ali's PR has come through because things have been super quiet with recruiting any Australians to the Lynx (hopefully it's because they've been so busy deciding which WNBA talent to add)

Haha, d'oh, looks like I responded too soon re. Grant.

I'm pretty sure there will be plenty of work happening behind the scenes at the Lynx. The Bendat's renewed the Lynx license last month, and history shows that they will do whatever is required to get a championship-level team on the court.

Heard Dandenong are looking at a few option, Anderson at this stage not resigned, also heard one of their main players for Rangers has jumped ship following some others that left the previous season,so watch out for that announcement .

I think you will find that Ash Grant is signed to the Boomers:

http://wnbl.com.au/melbourne/news/ash-grant-extends-boomers-contract-signs-201819/

Thanks Isaac!

Melbourne doesn't have a BigV team - you may be thinking of the Bulleen Boomers however they are in no way affiliated. If there was an unofficial Boomers offseason team however it would have to be the Melbourne Tigers SEABL this season with the large contingent of present and former Boomers suiting up!

Heard lots of bad vibes at Rangers WNBL. administration has undermined the coach and team. Anderson offered a contract after three months of delays. In the meantime the administration allowed most players to become free agents. Steph Blicavs has said she is leaving. Big loss to Dandenong.

Anderson back at rangers? Surely not
Change the coach you'll get the players back

Why is there so much negativity around Anderson?

Surprised if Steph Blicavs leaves as thought she was part of the inner circle there and settled, not sure where she would go and fit in but most teams would obvs have her. Could be formidable up in Townsville I guess.

As a keen Dandenong supporter my clear impression of the situation at the club is coach Anderson continues to have a wonderful relationship with her players. She got the team into the finals in her first 2 seasons and had a terrible run with injuries in the 3rd season.Not a bad record considering she hasn't had the benefit of a marquis player at any time.

^ think its more than one whose not impressed with Anderson's coaching when you read through lol

Personally I think she was fabulous at SEABL level, but think maybe WNBL is a little too much pressure, SEABL it was more like a big group of friends playing, the playing group they had changed very little for several years, which brought them great success, so the question should be, was that because of the coaching, or the combination of players?
Move to WNBL , that’s a job, it’s business, and you can’t play favourites with mates if you want to win, so maybe it was player management and lack of experience at that level, poor player selection( who chooses players coach or board?) lots of injuries to contain last year, and some questionable decisions towards the ends, put it all together and it’s not what you would call ideal .
Something though has gone wrong with the formula at Rangers, they have lost players after making finals, what team does that, and they were big minute players. Clydesdale, Novosel , Scherf, their import big who had a stellar year whose name escapes me, and some handy fringe players too, now if rumours true one of their best if not the best players in Steph.

Hope they sort it out soon

Admin has a lot to answer for. Anderson has had little control over recruiting. She had no choice in Palau who was a bust.

Reply #686757
re: WNBL 18/19 signings
Anderson is better than choker Molloy with marquee players. What a waste that was.


No argument there lol, the fact he's been re appointed for consecutive years is the biggest head scratcher.

Palau was a total waste, instead of grabbing a washed up injured player they would have been better letting the likes of Antoniadou get more experience off the bench, Lavey, Blicavs and Toddhunter had the main guard spots covered, they didn’t need to bring in Palau. No point sitting your players on the bench while paying someone who’s at the end of their career and too injured to play. But loosing Sarah Blicavs was a big blow, everything seemed to be constructed around her, and they just couldn’t adjust once she was out, up until that point they looked okay.

so can anyone confirm who is playing for the Lightning this season ?

From what we know:

Clydesdale/Seekamp/Blicavs/Planeta/Novosel
Nicholson/Gaze/Brook

All here: http://www.basketcasepodcast.com.au/wnbl-offseason-tracker/

Need a big to cover Bishop leaving (she still going to Caps?) but could probably do that with Hamblin coming back too.

Blicavs to Lightning is now official
http://wnbl.com.au/adelaide/news/stephanie-blicavs-joins-mac-adelaide-lightning/

So much for everything being fine and dandy at Dandenong then

is novosel playing or knee rehab ?

Kate Gaze to Adelaide from Canberra, hard to tell which team wins from that move. Boti ecstatic of course.

Hodges to take a season off to have a child

I've heard whispers around stadiums in Perth that Whitcomb will not be playing at the Lynx this season? Can anyone confirm?

"Bunton is fit again. She would be a good post pickup."

Sydney rumoured to be the leading candidate.

Well said. Steph has given great service to the Rangers. Her form there got her to Opals selection. Perhaps she needs a change to motivate her more given the terrible season Rangers had and the lack of recruiting this year could mean an even worse outcome. The extra money I guess helps as well.

Marena Whittle has signed with the Spirit. Was on the Townsville roster last season but didn't play a game due to injury.

On Steph Blicavs, I'd suspect that move to Adelaide will mean she will be able to play basketball full time instead of juggling WNBL and her teaching career. If that is the case, you cannot begrudge her for that, Dandenong should've been paying their players, especially arguably their most or second most valuable player, better.

Interesting re Sami Whitcomb.. Are these whispers in relation to joining another WNBL club, or heading off to Europe?

It certainly doesn't help when the Rangers have not yet finalised a deal with their head coach.

Players cannot wait forever and want some level of security. They would not want to sign with them when they cannot be sure who is coaching...

Kristy Wallace to Canberra

"Whitcomb is signed. She signed for two years. I don't believe anyone involved in that organisation would just "let her go"

They may not have much say if she has an out clause.

Not new but looking at Melbourne, going to be real interesting to see how all their players get playing time, especially if getting another import.

Allen/Garrick/Talbot/O'Hea/George
Conti/OtherImport/Grant/Purcell/Magbegor

Rangers signings

Anderson Coach

Lavey, Mijovic, Rowe, Pizzey, Roberts, Pederson.

There's no age limit to be a DP in the WNBL so that's not a barrier.

Who is Harry?

Nice pick up, can learn from the best behind Mitchell with no pressure on having to rush her recovery to play a starting role.

Cole to the Rangers.

Sydney have announced former AIS, Canberra, Adelaide & Dandenong centre Alex Bunton:

http://wnbl.com.au/sydney-uni/news/alex-bunton-adds-fuel-power-to-flames/

Bunton averaged 6.3 points & 4.6 rebounds with Dandenong in her last spell in the league.

Has Dandenong definitely resigned Anderson as coach? I'm hearing conflicting information.

What's the problem with the Administration at Dandenong? Rumours of major issues, administration unprofessional and underminding coach Anderson, taking too long to resign coach (If Anderson has in fact resigned), big name players leaving last two seasons, players reluctant to sign when they didn’t know who was coaching and general player unrest. Can anyone actually specify what exactly the issues are with the Dandenong administration or any other problems within the club? Obviously there’s some major problems.

Hypens are super important when talking about contracts.

Eg, Bendigo have re-signed bench player Kara Tessari.

Anderson back for the Nongers:

http://wnbl.com.au/dandenong/news/larissa-anderson-re-signs/

Will be interesting to see how they go without Steph Blicavs and with Sara still on the comeback trail. Anyone care to take a guess?

I have them in the bottom 8.

Can only wonder as to why the re-signing took so long. Definitely makes it tough now as most of the top-tier talent is signed up. Hard to see them being a finals contender, and it would be through no fault of Anderson.

Yeah the top teams look like Melbourne, Townsville, Sydney and Adelaide at this stage, so basically the top four last year with Perth swapped with Adelaide.

Ebzery and Kunek I believe are intending to be Europe bound. Hopefully we get Allen back in the league though, it's been a fair few years since we've seen her play in Aus.

I think you will find Allen, Bishop, Ebzery and Kunek are all playing in Europe next year.

with the late signing of a coach at Dandy, who has been responsible for the recruiting, or lack of??

Pedersen is officially coming back for the Rangers & the Spirit will announce a signing tomorrow (Wednesday)

Bendigo have filled their first import spot of the season with American 6'5" C Rebecca Tobin. She played pre-season WNBA games with Phoenix and LA in 2015 and 2016 respectively but did not make any final rosters.

The Fire have signed former under-19 Australian representative Casey Samuels:

http://wnbl.com.au/townsville/news/fire-secure-casey-samuels-for-title-defence/

After a brilliant college career, Steph Reid could be headed to the Rangers


Says who lol......mum and dad

Huge difference between college and WNBL especially for someone who's never played at a senior level at all

I'm hearing Reid's name is being linked with Rangers for WNBL too.

Adelaide has signed WNBA players Kayla Alexander and Nia Coffey on one-year deals:

http://wnbl.com.au/adelaide/news/lightning-inject-wnba-talent-into-their-2018-19-roster/

"I think Wallace will be right up there as one of the best Australian Gs in the wnbl by the end of the season. Rookie of the year...

All depends on if she starts beside Mitchell or becomes her backup."

It will all depend on whether she's even able to get on the court this season given she did her ACL just a few months ago!

Nice import signings by Adelaide there, they look to be building a competitive roster yet again. I must say though, interesting wording at the end of the announcement.. Only mentions Blicavs and Clydesdale - iirc Seekamp was on a two year deal? Surely they would've given their reigning MVP and Opals player a mention alongside those two if she were returning.

Exactly re Wallace, doubt she will be seeing much of the first years contract on court hence why a two year deal, and she would be coming off the bench I'm sure, especially her first year. She’s a good player but their is a big leap from college which is basically un23 to playing women

Only just saw the Lightning news. Very nice!

Jarry to the rangers.

It's a bit weird that Perth players haven't been re-signed yet, or signed elsewhere.

On Perth I'd say the answer to who will be re-signed can be found by looking at the players from that 17/18 roster who weren't WA locals but have remained in WA to play the state league over there - i.e. Ciabattoni and Standish.

I think I bought up Bec Allen a few weeks ago as to whether we'd see her back in the league this upcoming season. She's been signed by Polish side Basket 90 Gdynia http://www.australiabasket.com/Australia/news/532508/Rebecca-Allen-(ex-Lyon)-joins-Basket-Gdynia

Massive blow for Perth with Sami Whitcomb exercising the European out clause on her contract http://www.perthlynx.com/Media/News/perth-lynx-update-sami-whitcomb

With both her and very likely Kunek gone that's a massive amount of scoring firepower out of the team. It'll be interesting to see if they can keep Williams to somewhat stem that bleeding.

No, not Sami! Not going to be as fun watching the team now. Williams wasn't ever coming back either I don't think. Going to be a new look team and with no one signed they're not going to get many top players.

Yep very good move for Sami, I always wished she'd move to one of the Melbourne based teams one day so I could see her live more often but I guess there's always the chance she'll come back to play WNBL eventually.

It looks pretty bleak for the Lynx as it stands now with Mansfield being the only player officially on their books (still no Andy Stewart re-signing either from what I've observed).. it's pretty slim pickings on that free agents list in terms of the Australians left on the market. IMO they should have an Asia Taylor type very high on their recruitment shopping list.

Lightnings import Coffey delivering in the W

Updated 2018/19 WNBL squads after recent signings and defections:

Adelaide

Kayla Alexander
Stephanie Blicavs
Chelsea Brook
Nia Coffey
Aimie Clydesdale
Lauren Nicholson
Colleen Planeta
Nicole Seekamp

Bendigo

Nat Hurst
Cassidy McLean
Nadeen Payne
Kara Tessari
Becca Tobin
Abi Wehrung
Marena Whittle

Canberra

Keely Froling
Kelsey Griffin
Leilani Mitchell
Maddison Rocci
Lauren Scherf
Marianna Tolo
Kristy Wallace

Dandenong

Sara Blicavs
Rebecca Cole
Tessa Lavey
Carley Mijovic
Kayla Pedersen
Rebecca Pizzey
Tayla Roberts
Kiera Rowe

Melbourne

Lindsay Allen
Monique Conti
Chelsea D'Angelo
Maddi Garrick
Cayla George
Ash Grant
Ezi Magbegor
Jenna O'Hea
Kalani Purcell
Jaz Shelley
Steph Talbot

Perth

Lauren Mansfield

Sydney

Alex Bunton
Shanae Greaves
Lara McSpadden
Brittany Smart
Belinda Snell
Tahlia Tupaea
Alex Wilson

Townsville

Zitina Aokuso
Suzy Batkovic
Micaela Cocks
Mikhaela Donnelly
Darcee Garbin
Tess Madgen
Laurin Mincy
Casey Samuels

Kelsey Griffin , Leilani Mitchell , Marianna Tolo ....Oh my goodness....tooo good.... it's not a game .. it's a shame....

Lauren Mansfield is gonna grow a beard and get her team to within a game of the finals

"Kelsey Griffin , Leilani Mitchell , Marianna Tolo ....Oh my goodness....tooo good.... it's not a game .. it's a shame...."

Is Tolo going to play? Or Wallace?

Isn't Abbey Bishop returning to Canberra as well.

Townsville/Melbourne/Sydney/Canberra/Adelaide all shaping up with excellent teams. The rest will need some big signings.

Melbourne have signed 3 development players - Jade Melbourne, Lara Edmanson and Isobel Anstey (who was previously a Dandenong DP) http://wnbl.com.au/melbourne/news/melbourne-by-name-and-now-a-wnbl-boomer/

Dandenong have also signed Rachel Jarry http://www.basketball.com.au/news/wnbl/4735-exclusive-dandenong-rangers-add-dual-olympian-rachel-jarry

A quote at the bottom of that article by Larissa Anderson implies that Todhunter is coming back too, while she is not officially signed as of yet.

I'd say at this early stage all of the teams who have just about completed all of their signings look to be shaping up very nicely. I think we'll be in for a great, tight season yet again!

Yep - expect to see Todhunter back at Dandy.

Also last off season I tried to keep a little summary going of how & where each team's signings were performing in the offseason - here's what I could find for the signings as at 31/5 (if I remember / have time I'll try and get these updated monthly)

Adelaide:
Nia Coffey (Las Vegas - WNBA) 28 mpg, 16 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 0.3 apg, 0.7 spg, 0.7 bpg
Kayla Alexander (Indiana – WNBA) 14 mpg, 5.2 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 0.4 apg, 0.8 bpg
Lauren Nicholson (Launceston – SEABL) 37 mpg, 24.1 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.9 spg, 0.4 bpg
Kate Gaze (Canberra – SEABL) 30 mpg, 22 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 5.2 apg, 1.2 spg, 0.2 bpg
Steph Blicavs (Kilsyth – SEABL) 27 mpg, 16.9 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.6 spg, 0.4 bpg
Chelsea Brook (Sturt – SA PL) 32 mpg, 19.4 ppg, 12.7 rpg, 1.7 apg, 1.9 spg, 1.3 bpg
Nicole Seekamp (South West – QBL) 29 mpg, 19.8 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 7 apg, 4.8 spg, 0.5 bpg

Bendigo:
Nadeen Payne (Bendigo – SEABL) 30 mpg, 23.9 ppg, 8 rpg, 2.3 apg, 0.6 spg, 0.1 bpg
Marena Whittle (Nunawading – SEABL) 29 mpg, 17.9 ppg, 8.6 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.7 spg, 0.3 bpg
Kara Tessari (Bendigo – SEABL) 25 mpg, 12.4 ppg, 2.1, rpg, 2.8 apg, 1 spg
Abigail Wehrung (DV – SEABL) 32 mpg, 10.6 ppg, 4 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.3 bpg
Nat Hurst (Sunshine Coast – QBL) 40 mpg, 23.5 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 7.5 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.2 bpg

Canberra:
Leilani Mitchell (Phoenix – WNBA) 17 mpg, 3 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 3 apg, 0.3 bpg
Lauren Scherf (DV – SEABL) 32 mpg, 22.2 ppg, 14.2 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg
Keely Froling (Canberra – SEABL) 39 mpg, 19.8 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 3 apg, 0.8spg, 1 bpg
Maddi Rocci (DV – SEABL) 25 mpg, 10.6 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.4 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.5 bpg

Dandenong:
Bec Cole (Melbourne – SEABL) 33 mpg, 25.7 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 4.1 apg, 2.1 spg, 0.3 bpg
Tayla Roberts (Dandenong – SEABL) 32 mpg, 20.1ppg, 11.6rpg, 2.5 apg, 0.5 spg, 1.6 bpg
Tessa Lavey (Dandenong – SEABL) 33 mpg, 13.6 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 5.4 apg, 2.8 spg, 0.2 bpg
Kiera Rowe (Dandenong – SEABL) 31 mpg, 11.1 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.4 pg, 1.9 spg, 0.2 bpg
Bec Pizzey (Dandenong – SEABL) 17 mpg, 6.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 0.6 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.6 bpg
Carley Mijovic (Knox – BigV) 25 mpg, 15.7 ppg, 8 rpg, 0.7 apg, 1 spg, 1.7 bpg

Melbourne:
Lindsay Allen (Las Vegas – WNBA) 31 mpg, 6.3 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 4 apg, 1.7 spg
Steph Talbot (Phoenix – WNBA) 9mpg, 2.3 ppg, 1.3 rpg, 0.7 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.3 bpg
Monique Conti (Melbourne SEABL) 34 mpg, 19.7 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 3.3 apg, 1.9 spg, 0.2 bpg
Ezi Magbegor (DV – SEABL) 29 mpg, 16 ppg, 9 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.2 spg, 2.4 bpg
Chelsea D'Angelo (Kilsyth – SEABL) 26 mpg, 12.6 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.6 apg, 1.6 spg
Jaz Shelley (Southern Pen – BigV) 34 mpg, 20.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 5.5 apg, 4.6 spg, 1 bpg,
Ash Grant (Lakeside – WA SBL) 24 mpg, 15 ppg, 8.8 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.3 spg, 2 bpg

Perth:
Lauren Mansfield (Launceston – SEABL) 32 mpg, 15.6 ppg, 4 rpg, 5.6 apg, 3.4 spg, 0.2 bpg

Sydney:
Britt Smart (Hobart – SEABL) 31 mpg, 22.9 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 3.9 apg, 2.8 spg, 0.3 bpg
Alex Wilson (Launceston – SEABL) 37 mpg, 17 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 4.1 apg, 1.7 spg, 0.6 bpg
Shanae Greaves (Sydney – SEABL) 28 mpg, 14.5 ppg, 6 rpg, 1.4 apg, 0.3 spg, 0.4 bpg
Tahlia Tupaea (Sydney – SEABL) 29 mpg, 13.4 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4.7 apg, 3.4 spg, 0.9 bpg
Lara McSpadden (Sydney – SEABL) 29 mpg, 12.3 ppg, 7.8 pg, 2 apg, 0.7 spg, 1.5 bpg

Townsville
Tess Madgen (Dandenong – SEABL) 24 mpg, 9 ppg, 4 rpg, 6 apg, 1.3 spg, 0.3 bpg
Micaela Cocks (Townsville – QBL) 32 mpg, 22.3 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 4.8 apg, 2 spg, 0.3 bpg
Darcee Garbin (Townsville – QBL) 33 mpg, 17.8 ppg, 9 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1.5 spg, 1 bpg
Casey Samuels (North GC – QBL) 30 mpg, 17.3 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 2.8 apg, 1.5 spg, 0.8 spg
Zitina Aokuso (Logan – QBL) 31 mpg, 17.2 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 2 apg, 1.8 spg, 1.6 bpg
Mikhaela Donnelly (Logan – QBL) 39 mpg, 13.6 ppg, 5 rpg, 5.4 apg, 1.6 spg

abby bishop clas act......on paper canberra win the ship...

2018/19 Lynx

Starters:
C - Import
F - Standish
F - Import
G - Ciabattoni
G - Mansfield

Bench:
C - Burton
F - Schwagmeyer
G - Pirini

IMO would have Farnworth starting ahead of Ciabattoni in that projected Lynx lineup if she is returning, or even Schwagmeyer seemed decent in the game she played, but yikes even if they get some serious import star power they ain't looking too great at the moment.

Yeah and if they did push membership renewals early whilst knowing there's a team upheaval incoming and Sami possibly leaving then it's all rather dodgy by Lynx FO.

Same goes with Adelaide's Nia Coffey, she certainly looks to be all star 5 quality at this stage.

What's the go with Bishop? Reports linking her going back to France, does that mean no WNBL?

I saw an article which linked Bishop to return to Tarbes in France (she played there in the 16/17 season and from what I'd read enjoyed the city/club etc) which IMO makes sense given their star PF who essentially replaced Bishop last season has transferred clubs. At this stage I very highly doubt she will be playing WNBL this upcoming season.

Shame, she's one of the best players. With Tolo at Canberra she can't go back there. I think Perth and Sydney are the two teams that don't have a centre, so if having to leave Adelaide, going to Europe is fair enough.

Lynx finally making some noise off season, signing Asia Taylor

Maybe the Lynx trawl through this forum as I said a few weeks back how they should have Asia Taylor high on their list of recruits HAHA

Very good signing for them, but I can't help but think it'll be a bit like last season for them - a very very good three main players but the rest being streaky contributors.

IMO Standish is just about a lock given her soon to be husband is contracted for the Wildcats. Then I think Farnworth, Ciabattoni & Schwagmeyer will return - Burton too if she's not intending to go over to Europe. Given their lack of signings to date I wouldn't be surprised if they headed into the season with a 9 player roster again.

"IMO Standish is just about a lock given her soon to be husband is contracted for the Wildcats. Then I think Farnworth, Ciabattoni & Schwagmeyer will return - Burton too if she's not intending to go over to Europe. Given their lack of signings to date I wouldn't be surprised if they headed into the season with a 9 player roster again."

Good signing by the Lynx, but not sure Schwagmeyer will be there unless she is a P.R.

Standish is currently a FA as far as I am aware - she certainly hasn't been announced as a signing with Dandenong. If she were to go there IMO it's a backwards step for her in terms of minutes/role as they've already got Pedersen, Mijovic & Roberts on their books.

I thought Schwagmeyer was close to PR status last season, but again could be wrong. I do agree though if she doesn't qualify they'd go for a different import.

Also worth noting that Ruth Hamblin won't be returning for a third WNBL season as she's been signed by Belgium side Castors Braine

Nice to see Perth busy doubling their roster.

Taylor will be great, in that top five echelon of players last year, top three year before. So we know she is class. Just surprised Sydney didn't want her back.

Where is Alice Kunek playing? why do we think she wont be back at Perth.

Louella Tomlinson to Bendigo

Any word on Kunek?

Maddie Allen (played for Canberra in 2016/17) has been signed by Perth and Carley Mijovic has been 'officially' re-signed by Dandenong today.

To be honest I'm not entirely sold on Tomlinson's game, but hopefully this move to Bendigo allows her to string together some solid consistent performances with a greater role than she had at the Boomers.

As far as I know on Kunek she's off to Europe for their full season and won't be playing WNBL this year.

If Perth have cash to burn, why aren't they signing players or trying to get good ones before they were snapped up.

The fact there's no news from the likes of their former players like Kunek etc I think suggests they're most likely to stay or have some sort of agreement for next season, but no contract yet.

It's all speculation though, it's weird there's so little news out of them this off-season.

Allen seems likes an ok signing, playing well in SBL? Her chance to establish herself as a WNBL calibre big.

I think Tomlinson is a good get for Bendigo, at least she can play and soak up minutes when she gets the opportunity.

Would have thought kunek would stay in the wnbl with her mates and also to play against the players she wants to compete against for a opals spot

Boomers adding to their coaching staff too

The Deakin Melbourne Boomers have unveiled their WNBL season 2018/19 coaching staff with a new member joining Head Coach Guy Molloy's staff.

Katrina Hibbert (Lead Assistant Coach), Paul Flynn (Assistant Coach) and Nicole Howard (Head of Scouting) will again form part of the coaching staff, with former West Coast Waves and Tall Ferns coach Kennedy Kereama joining as an Assistant Coach.

For Kereama, who recently handed the reigns of the New Zealand Tall Fern’s team over to Molloy, the chance to join Melbourne’s WNBL team is an opportunity he is looking forward to.

"I am very excited to be involved with the Boomers staff, players and club this WNBL season. I have always been a big supporter and fan of what the Boomers represent. Their community engagement, marketing and professionalism on all facets is what sets them apart from all programs. I am honoured to be a part of it," said Kereama.

Wasn’t he at Rangers, that’s every year Rangers assistant coaching staff have changed

Yes Kereama was on the coaching team at Dandy last season.

I feel that for those players at Opals squad level (particularly those who aren't locks for the final 12) this season is the one where they can pursue Europe if they want to - i.e. the 19/20 season will be the one immediately before the Olympics and most players generally come home for that season to prove themselves / participate in camps etc. iirc Kunek has played in Europe post WNBL season for the past few years now, perhaps now is the time she can put together a whole season over there. On her though, I have her as a smoky to make that world cup team at the moment with a combination of luck through injuries and positional depth.

I think you could be right, Melb Fan. I'd like to see a fit Sara Blicavs in the squad before her, but it's not like forward depth is good for the Opals, so Kunek definitely has a good shit if she keeps playing well.

*Shot

*%&! autocorrect.

Agreed Waves2Lynx, Sara had the worst timing to do her ACL - she could've easily cemented her spot in the Opals rotation and IMO push for WNBA camp spots this year.

At this stage if I were picking a WC 12 I'd be going
Mitchell - Mansfield
O'Hea - Ebzery - Steph Blicavs
Talbot - Allen - Kunek
George - Smith
Cambage - Batkovic

No Tolo, Wallace & Sara Blicavs with ACLs
I personally see O'Hea as more of a SG in the international scene - she was also used predominantly as a guard in the Comm Games lineup as well.

No Bishop as per this quote - 'Bishop recently decided to pull out from the Opals squad, advising that national team coach, Sandy Brondello, was extremely supportive and respectful of her decision, keeping the door open for a possible return in future. She would go on to explain that she made the decision after returning home from playing duties in Russia after reflecting on her career and life at this point' https://pickandroll.com.au/bishop-and-hurst-veteran-stars-shining-for-sunshine-coast-phoenix/

Yes far too early to be calling any WC teams, lots can happen between now and then

Waves2Lynx, I thought you were just talking funky-like saying "she had good sh#t" and the k/stroke error was the added 'a'. 'O' and 'I' dangerously close together!

"Yes far too early to be calling any WC teams, lots can happen between now and then."

Three months away from the tournament commencing is far too early? What we do know is that none of Blicavs, Tolo or Wallace will be recovered in time for September.

Agree those lineups are as close to best team possible we'll likely have. Does highlight the forward depth problem, most of those "PFs" are bigs who'd need to play there because of fit. For the team itself, I think the likes of Magbegor will keep getting picked.

Depth list I'd include Jarry at the end in either the 2/3, but she'd be on the injury list too.

AshT, I'm not that clever, forever making spelling mistakes.

According to the BA calendar the Opals will be attending a tour/tournament/camp of sorts in China in exactly a months time, so I suppose in the coming weeks we will get a bit more clarity on the squad if/when the team for that trip is announced.

Agree Jarry has never really been at that level even taking away her propensity for injury, You can probably count Smith out with college commitments this is her senior year so nodoubt very much will they be giving her time off

If a team is required in a month, it won't have half of them available either due to WNBA commitments ( which last time they wouldn’t let them off from) and injury, may end up being a very scratchy team

It's probably a good thing if they do end up going to China that the WNBA players aren't there - they'd all be locks barring injuries for that final team, so it gives those who will be fighting it out for the remaining spots a chance to prove themselves.

It will be interesting what happens with Smith - you'd hope Stanford don't stop her from going I mean it'd be good press for the college and NCAA league to have one of their players playing at the World Cup but you never know.

IMO, the likes of Sara Blicavs and Kunek have overtaken Jarry big time. After her injuries I feel she's now a bit limited to SF which puts her back a lot in the pecking order when the other two plus Talbot & Allen can either play as a stretch PF and/or are athletic enough to potentially play more of a guard role.

Well seems all wrong
CONGRATS it's GREEN & GOLD for Katie-Rae and Tahlia!

Alongside Co-Coach Cheryl Chambers the girls form part of the Opals team to tour China in July to compete in a Four Nation Tournament in prep for FIBA World Cup in Spain. Keep watching for more details!




Hmmm

Tupaea.. interesting. I mean I guess that suggests no Lavey as surely they'd be going Mansfield for that starting PG spot. I'm a little surprised there's no Ally Wilson, considering theres likely no Allen or Talbot due to WNBA commitments.

Definitely not what you'd expect, unless they are thinking the comp will be slow and easy

Opals squad for the four nations tournament and camp has been announced - a few surprises I will admit..

Steph Blicavs
Katie-Rae Ebzery
Darcee Garbin
Kelsey Griffin
Alice Kunek
Tessa Lavey
Tess Madgen
Ezi Magbegor
Lauren Mansfield
Jenna O'Hea
Nicole Seekamp
Tahlia Tupaea

I'm surprised, but great to see Tess Madgen back in the frame. She had a bit of a slow start to her SEABL season, but she pushed out a near triple double in on of her most recent games. Also surprised to see no Batkovic, surely this means no WC for her as this is supposedly the final camp. Not too sure if this clashes with College hence the Smith omission, but I hope that is the case.

Bunton's still a way off, only just re-commenced running a few weeks back. Although I do agree, Scherf's omission is puzzling given the lack of height in this squad. Looks guard stacked for mine, but I guess the guard spots are probably the ones more up for grabs than the bigs so I have no issue there if they want to test out what their guards are made of.

Tuppaea and Sherf are too slow for Chinese players. Lavey, Garbin and Magbegor are lucky to be selected. Not sure why Smith is omitted?

College will be started , the play preseason so probably why no smith

Sherf isn't slow and her SEABL statsare good, so strange omission in such a small line up
Tupaea way to slow but can nsidering Chambers is her WNBL coach that’s probably why the inclusion ,
Very strange line up unless Griffin and Kunek are playing centres

"
I dont know whats more ridiculous, lavey getting a spot again or tupea getting a call up?"

Couldn't agree more , who’s picking these sides ?

Ebzery is one who I'm surprised hasn't been signed yet. Maybe another European bound.

I think the Opals squad is fine, it's basically a WNBL training camp. Coulda used another big of course. Will see what happens.

"Tuppaea and Sherf are too slow for Chinese players. Lavey, Garbin and Magbegor are lucky to be selected. Not sure why Smith is omitted?"

Given Cambage, Tolo, Batkovic, George, Bishop, Bunton, Sara Blicavs and Smith are all unavailable, and you note Scherf is too slow, who are you selecting if Garbin and Magbegor are lucky?

Based on last WNBL season stats, I'd choose Nadeen Payne or Carly Mijovic over Sherf.

Scherf wasn't selected

Are you trying to compare WNBL to SEABL? Lol.

Neither Payne or Mijovic play a 4/5 , Sherf does.

Sherf wasn't initially back up at Canberra , Misty Bass took starting role in second half of season

Sherf also has far better stats than Magbegor in bothnWNBL and SEAL

Seems she’s constantly overlooked

I got the impression of Griffin being able to play 5 positions...

There's some bull goes around about some players being able to do this ...
but , I'd reckon she looks likely .....
come in griffin haters...

Those FT% for Magbegor & Aokuso are concerning.. To be honest though, Aokuso isn't near Opals level yet - perhaps one for the future, yes, but she needs a lot more court time in the WNBL before she makes an Opals team.

Scherf has been massive this SEABL season, hopefully the Opals staff have identified areas in her game she needs to work on so she can go and force her way into the squad in the near future.

The Fire still look like they have an import spot available

The Lynx have gotten busy in a hurry with signings - Alison Schwagmeyer has now become a unrestricted player so they have signed her, Maddie Allen has signed last with the Captials, Standish as expected has resigned and so has Toni Farmworth. What do we think of the team so far?

Schwagmeyer will fill Thompson's role in the rotation last season and back up anywhere on the back court if needed too. Assuming they get another Whitcomb calibre import guard then they should be competitive even if unlikely to make finals.

Williams -> Mansfield
Whitcomb -> Import?
Kunek -> Taylor
Standish -> Standish
Dowe -> Allen

Burton -> re-signs?
Farnsworth -> Farnsworth
Ciabattoni -> re-signs?
Thompson -> Schwagmeyer

Carly Boag is playing SBL, maybe she's another who signs.

According to the Western Australian, Burton & Ciabattoni will be joining Whitcomb in Europe:

https://thewest.com.au/sport/basketball/redemption-drives-returning-perth-lynx-trio-ahead-of-2018-19-wnbl-campaign-ng-b88864471z

Carly Boag has done an ACL so she's not a Perth signing and it looks like Thompson and Williams won't be returning either.

https://thewest.com.au/sport/basketball/redemption-drives-returning-perth-lynx-trio-ahead-of-2018-19-wnbl-campaign-ng-b88864471z

Burton & Ciabattoni apparently are off to Europe, as well as Whitcomb and Kunek which we already knew.

I'd be surprised if Thompson made a roster this year, she didn't do overly much for Perth last season and seems to have really dropped off in the SA premier league too which is a bit of a concern.

Perth have signed Katie-Rae Ebzery.. a pretty good signing for them, now they just need a star import big and they'll be back in the race for the top 4.

In what universe is Asia Taylor playing as a small forward in the WNBL?

Well that Lynx roster is coming together late, but it's coming together pretty strong too.
Mansfield, Ebzery & Schwagmeyer is a strong trio of non-imports to build around.

Front court still looks weak though, just like last season. Very curious to see how we round that out. With a good enough 5 this team could do some damage.

"In what universe is Asia Taylor playing as a small forward in the WNBL?

-why not? it's what she plays in the WNBA"

Except she doesn't play in the WNBA and that's why she was recently waived and hasn't been picked up elsewhere. Furthermore, you wouldn't play her on the perimeter because she can't shoot! In the WNBL, she does a great job of using her physicality in the post but she's too small to do that in the WNBA. A more realistic lineup is:

Mansfield/???
Ebzery/Farnworth
Schwagmeyer/???
Taylor/Standish
???/Allen

Theres the answer on Ebzery. Should be a good All-Aussie pairing with Mansfield. Strange that Burton/Cibattoni are going overseas. If their agents are good, go for it. Interesting to see what type of import big they sign.

Today the Perth Lynx re-signed Andy Stewart for 2 years, and signed Shyla Heal
Perth Lynx add young gun Shyla Heal

Kelly Wilson to Canberra

Seriously Kelly Wilson to Canberra, haven't they got Mitchell as their PG, plus Wallace and Rocci, thought she was retiring that’s why she left Townsville, !

Surely Wallace will be missing most, if not all, of this season though.

http://wnbl.com.au/uc-capitals/news/uc-capitals-add-three-time-champion-kelly-wilson/

Who will be beating Canberra this season?

Andy Stewart was at Frankston vs Diamond Valley SEABL game last night.

I reckon Andy was checking out Stacey Barr who is looking to return to the WNBL from footy. She's putting up nice numbers in the SEABL and has had a previous stint with Perth.

Lightning add Davidson - Adelaide roster looking good.

tall fern Davidson - on wnbl website

Rangers looking to sell their licence. Can't justify spending so much money on a national program.

Nice get for Canberra

Canberra Capitals sign WNBA star Kia Nurse

Haha some artistic license there yes, but I've heard worse and I think it's fair enough in this case. She is playing major rotation minutes as a WNBA rookie and will be a very good player in the WNBL.

Updated 2018/19 WNBL squads:

Adelaide

Clydesdale - ???
Seekamp - ???
Blicavs - ???
Coffey - Planeta
Alexander – Davidson - Brook

Bendigo

Hurst – Tessari
Wehrung - McLean
Scott – Whittle
Payne – Wild
Tobin – Tomlinson

Canberra

Mitchell – Rocci
Nurse – Wilson – Wallace
Froling - ???
Griffin – Young
Scherf – Tolo

Dandenong

Lavey - ???
Cole – Rowe
Jarry – Blicavs
Mijovic – Pizzey
Pedersen – Roberts

Melbourne

Allen – Conti
Talbot – Garrick – D'Angelo
O’Hea – Shelley
George – Purcell – Grant
Magbegor - Boothe

Perth

Mansfield – Heal
Ebzery – Farnworth
Schwagmeyer - ???
Taylor – Standish
??? - Allen

Sydney

Tupaea – Graham
Wilson – Smart
Snell - ???
Johnson – Greaves
Bunton - McSpadden

Townsville

Cocks – Donnelly
Madgen – Beck
Mincy – Samuels
Garbin - ???
Batkovic - Aokuso

I think it is fair to say in the WNBL Kia Nurse will be a huge star! she is a Uconn star and a olympian!

Canberra

Mitchell - Wilson - Rocci
Wallace -
Nurse - Young
Griffin - Froling
Tolo - Scherf

You'd expect Wallace to start at SG if she was fit and healthy, but didn't she do her ACL in February like Tolo?

Griffin and Froling both recovering from surgery at the moment and I'm told Scherf broke her collarbone too.

When is the last time Nat Burton was a WNBA player.... come on if you cant give Kia Nurse credit as a baller than you have no idea about basketball.
on a side note - How Nat Burton was an Olympian to this day still puzzles me.

Perth Lynx sign WNBA young gun Kaela Davis

I really thought we'd go bigger with our 2nd import.