Flames sign Bradley as first import for WNBL24
The Sydney Flames’ WNBL24 roster is nearing completion after unveiling the signing of its first import, guard Paige Bradley.
The Texas-born point guard, who joins the Hoops Capital club on a one-year deal, becomes the side’s ninth signing for the upcoming 2023-24 season – joining Cayla George, Tess Madgen, Lauren Nicholson, Shaneice Swain, Kiera Rowe, Emma Clarke, Vanessa Panousis and Lara McSpadden on the roster.
“I’ve always enjoyed my experiences in Australia [playing two NBL1 seasons with Hobart], so to get an opportunity like this is massive and a dream come true,” said Bradley, who has just wrapped up her New Zealand NBL season with Dunedin at the weekend, which saw her named in the All-Star five.
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“All the chats I’ve had with Guy [Molloy] and Chris [Pongrass] have been really positive and it really feels like the Flames are a perfect fit for me, with everything and everyone they have in place there.”
The 29-year-old guard started her hoops journey in Woodlands, Texas.
Bradley spent four years at the University of Denver from 2012-2016 before turning professional and spending three seasons with German outfit, Pharmaserv Blue Dolphins Marburg.
Two years with QOOL Sharks Wuerzburg (Germany) followed before Bradley made the journey to Australia.
With all this experience, including stints in NBL1 and NZNBL, Bradley is confident she can be an asset to the side.
“I’m hoping to bring plenty of experience and organisation to the point guard position, as well as composure and calmness on the court,” said Bradley, who won numerous awards, including being selected to 2015-16 Summit League Academic All-League team and being a member of The Summit League All-Tournament Team (2013-14), during her time with the Pioneers.
“We have plenty of great leaders already in place on this team, so I’d like to do my bit to contribute to that, while also helping the club build on its culture and long-term legacy.
“Not only that, with my ability to be a score-first guard as well as an efficient distributor, I aim to put all our talented playmakers in the best position to succeed.
“Then defensively, as the point guard, I want to set the tone and be as disruptive as I can to the opponent’s ball-handlers.
“Whatever role they have for me, I’m willing to do it, to ensure this team can be the best version of itself, on and off the court.”
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Flames president Victoria Denholm is thrilled to add someone of Bradley’s experience and knowledge to the harbour city side’s revamped squad.
“Paige is a veteran presence and floor general who knows how to play her role and contribute to a team,” Denholm said.
“She’s just finished playing in New Zealand – and our own Tess Madgen had to go up against her and rated her as a great defender and tough competitor.
“We’re excited to have her in a Flames uniform.”
The Flames tip off their season on Friday, November 3 in Perth before playing their first home game against Melbourne on November 12, as part of a Hoops Capital double-header at Qudos Bank Arena – with tickets available here.