Payne to remain in Fire colours
ANOTHER piece of the Townsville Fire’s 2021 puzzle has come together, with local product Nadeen Payne resigning with the club.
The 27-year-old forward had a strong campaign in last year’s WNBL hub under coach Shannon Seebohm, averaging 8.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists a game in the run to the grand final.
Payne said she always wanted to remain in Fire colours, having resonated profoundly with Seebohm’s coaching style and the organisation’s culture.
“A season like last season is so hard to wrap your head around, there were so many different variables we were experiencing for the first time,” Payne said.
“I think it was a no-brainer, I really enjoy Shannon as a coach … I respect him — he’s an honest, genuine coach and it makes you want to play the best you can.
“I am so happy to be re-signing with the Fire this upcoming season and to build on everything we accomplished last year.”
Coach Seebohm believes that Nadeen’s experience, work ethic and talents made the decision to keep her at the club an easy one.
“Her skill set as a versatile ‘four’ suits how we want to play, add to that Nadeen is a great leader, both on and off the court, and the perfect fit for our culture,” he said.
Payne will join 2020 teammates Stephanie Reid, Mia Murray, Lauren Nicholson, Zitina Aoukso and Courtney Woods back in the orange singlet, as Seebohm seeks to maintain the great strides the side made last campaign.