Samuels sizes up WNBL return
JCU Townsville Fire forward Casey Samuels concedes her time away from the Chemist Warehouse WNBL has made her hungrier upon her return.
With more than 100 WNBL games to her name, the 24-year-old, who has previously enjoyed stints at the AIS, Canberra and Sydney, has spent the past two years with the Swans Academy in the AFL.
Are you ready to watch the Fire fly? The three-time @WNBL champions are out to defend their title this summer and they want you by their side! Become a member today —> https://t.co/kyXoqqdlt8 #FireUpTownsville pic.twitter.com/g7d3tPkOkq
— Townsville Fire (@TownsvilleFire) June 19, 2018
Despite her cross-code switch, Samuels was a star in the Waratah Basketball League last season as she averaged 22.9 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.8 assists for Bankstown and continued her hot form in the QBL for North Gold Coast in 2018.
Leading the Seahawks in their inaugural season, Samuels averaged 18.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists as the team reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated at the hands of the Townsville Flames.
“At the moment I’m just finding my way,” Samuels, who completed her first on-court session for the Fire this morning, said.
“I do want to be part of the Opals again – it’s always a goal.
“I’m just pushing myself to be the best that I can.”
During the 2015/16 WNBL season – her last in the WNBL – Samuels was a starter for the Sydney Uni Flames and averaged 6.8 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.4 assists.
Great to have Casey Samuels (@13CaseyJo_) on media street ahead of @WNBL pre-season commencing next week! #FireUpTownsville pic.twitter.com/jytrLVWzAq
— Townsville Fire (@TownsvilleFire) September 2, 2018
A prolific three-point shooter, Samuels is expected to provide the Fire with flexibility on the perimeter as they mount their title defence.
“I’m hoping that my shooting game can continue on from the QBL,” Samuels said.
“I want to be a perimeter threat but also be a versatile player. Hopefully I’ll spend some time in the post as well.”
The Fire officially commence pre-season next week with a number of stars including Tess Madgen and Ally Malott among early arrivals.
Join Casey and become a member of the Fire this season, with the reigning WNBL champions poised to unveil their championship banner in round one.
Click here to become a member of the Fire today.