One of the most memorable moments of the inaugural G.J. Gardner Homes Tauihi season in 2022 was watching star Argentinian guard Florencia Chagas teaching young fans some dribbling skills literally minutes after her MVP heroics had led the ANZCO Tokomanawa Queens to the competition's maiden championship.
Sky's television cameras captured the moment perfectly, it was heartwarming and genuine.
The essence of seeing Chagas 'giving back' wasn't lost on anyone and shone a bright light on exactly what everyone had hoped Tauihi would be to girls with aspirations of one day playing professional basketball. The window of opportunity had been opened, the pathway to a hoops career had been built.
To see a talent like Chagas travel to New Zealand in season number one was remarkable, to have her come back for season number three is transformational. Indeed, word has spread around the world and players across the globe now know New Zealand has a women's pro league that is very much worth giving a go.
A short 12-week competition window and good money. And, just as importantly, a bucket-list country. That's three very big boxes ticked.
Such is the loveable nature of the Argentinian WNBA-drafted talent, a desire to give back to the next generation is the hallmark of a leader. Not a bad tag for a player just tipping 23 years of age and seemingly with a decade-plus as a pro player ahead of her.
Chagas has an infectious smile and attitude. Somehow she is a fierce competitor and likeable opponent.
Talk to any Queens fans and noticeably Chagas is a name that is mentioned as a favourite. The response from fans when news broke that 'Flo' was returning was exactly what the Queens hierarchy had hoped for. The excitement was real.
After celebrating her 21st birthday when last in New Zealand, Chagas' sublime skills helped lead the Queens to victory in 2022 but few would know that she actually signed to return in 2023. Had it not been for a clash of dates with a European gig, the coming 2024 season would actually be her third with the Queens. Unfortunately for Queens faithful, the Euro contract in 2023 had to be met.
The determination to return for season three was cast a long time ago, her heart was here for season two, but her mind and body were in Europe. You get the feeling bott Chagas and the Queens knew a return to Wellington in 2024 was a mere formality.
Chagas’ grand final MVP back in 2022 (22 points, 6 assists) wasn’t her only award that season. With game averages of 16.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.7 steals and 2.4 treys, Chagas was also unanimously voted as the Youth Player of the Year.
A point guard with an ability to also play off the ball and space the court, Chagas is equally as dangerous when shooting from range as she is from setting up those around her. Defensively, she poses a threat to every team - quick, agile and with a nose for jumping into lanes to swipe steals. She plays ferociously at both ends of the court, a coach's dream.
This time around Chagas has increased player talent around her in a Queens lineup that features WNBA star Jordan Horston, 198-centimeter American center Tamari Key, Korean international wing Jihyun Park, and Australian WNBL champion Lou Brown.
Unquestionably, the union Chagas already has with Queens captain Stella Beck will come in handy as well. Their partnership played a big part in the team's 2022 success. They are a hand in glove fit together.
There is some excitement around Chagas also playing alongside dashing young guns Awatea Leach and Grace Hunter.
Come next Friday night (October 4) don't be surprised if the Sky cameras pick up fans flocking to Chagas after the Queens' opening game, eager to say hello and welcome her back. The love for New Zealand's favourite Argentinian is real.
Because .... Flo Is All The Go!
Tickets Selling Fast!!!
Tickets to the Queens opening game on Friday October 4 against Southern Hoiho at Te Rauparaha Arena (Porirua) are selling fast.
TICKETS HERE to see Florencia Chagas and the Queens in action.
