BNZ Northern Kāhu
If you THINK the Kāhu are hoping for a clean bill of health on the roster this season THEN it all starts and finishes with Tall Fern Tahlia Tupaea. New Zealand’s only WNBA drafted player has had her fair share of injuries, including last year’s shoulder injury that ruled her out for most of the Tauihi season. But if Tupaea can get through a full season in 2024 you just know the Kahu will be right in the mix to win another championship.
Mainland Pouākai
If you THINK the Pouākai are done recruiting THEN think again. New coach Paul Flynn has one key roster spot still to fill, a FIBA Asia import, and given his connections across Australia it’s highly likely the last spot on the roster will be an Australian. Stay tuned...
Southern Hoiho
If you THINK pre-season has been smooth sailing for the Hoiho THEN a late import change was not what coach Todd Marshall was expecting. Australian guard Isabella Brancatisano will no longer be heading to Dunedin after former Tall Ferns coach Guy Molloy offered her a role with the Sydney Flames, leaving Marshall to pivot and find a replacement. Say hello to Australian Chelsea D’Angelo, a talented WNBL guard with European experience and a high work ethic, an all-rounder and perfect replacement.
Tauranga Whai
If you THINK the Whai wanted to recruit high-scoring players this season THEN they have literally scooped first prize with returning duo McKenna Dale and WNBA-drafted Mikayla Cowling being joined by former Hoiho (2022) sharpshooter Laina Snyder and WNBA-drafted Ashley Joens. Australian Morgan Yaeger is also a noted scorer. Expect to see the scoreboard ticking over quickly for the Whai this season.
ANZCO Tokomanawa Queens
If you THINK the Queens are looking to prepare a little differently in their championship quest this season THEN why not throw in a trip to China to play three games against quality opposition. The Queens have been invited to Hainan, China in late September where they will play a trio of teams from Japan, Korea and China in the APAC Women’s Basketball Challenge. Great to see the Queens flying the Kiwi and Tauihi flags on the international stage.
