Juffermans to join Louisville after debut WNBL season
Sydney Flames young gun Isla Juffermans has announced the next chatper in her basketball career will be in the United States college system, after unveiling she signed her national letter of intent to Louisville on Thursday.
The Flame’s amateur player, who recently joined the Hoops Capital club from the Centre of Excellence, is excited to achieve a long-term goal of hers of playing abroad.
“College basketball is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Juffermans said.
“I have always loved to watch the game and the skill of the players, as well as the chance to experience the massive crowds college teams attract.
“I chose Louisville as it felt like a family to me – as I am going be living so far from home, for me to perform to the best of my ability it is important to have that similar support.
“The fans are also really loyal to the girls, and the women’s basketball program is really big in Louisville.”
The Coffs Harbour product will jet off to the US following her maiden WNBL season with the Sydney Flames, which she feels will perfectly prepare her for the next chapter of her career.
“I am really enjoying it [being with the Flames],” the 18-year-old NSW junior said.
“I love training under Guy [Molloy], he is so wise and has already helped me improve my mental and physical game.
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“I also love being coached by the assistants Renae [Garlepp] and Tiana [Mangakahia], they have been so supportive and helped me heaps.
“The girls have been really great and supportive as well, love to be around them all – I can’t wait for my first game this Friday.
“[Before I leave] I want to work on my defensive game – I feel like it needs a lot of developing and Guy has given me the stepping stones thus far to do so.
“Training with the Flames so far has also improved my basketball IQ (such as pick and roll reads) which I think is really important if I want to play for the Opals again in the future.”
Jufferamans and her harbour city side will take on Benidgo in Mildura on Friday night, with the game broadcast on 9Now from 7.30pm AEDT.