Townsville Fire Secure WNBA Guard Zia Cooke for 2024/25 WNBL Season
Townsville Fire Secure WNBA Guard Zia Cooke for 2024/25 WNBL Season
The Fire are excited to announce the signing of rising WNBA star Zia Cooke, who will join the team for the 2024/25 WNBL season. Cooke, known for her tenacity and scoring ability, arrives following two strong seasons with the Los Angeles Sparks.
Cooke was a standout guard at the University of South Carolina, where she led the team to a national championship in 2022. Across her college career, she averaged 12.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. Her ability to perform in big moments, especially during March Madness, earned her a reputation as a clutch player. Cooke was selected 10th overall by the Sparks in the 2023 WNBA Draft.
In her first two seasons in the WNBA, Cooke has continued to impress. She averaged 8.4points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game during her rookie campaign, showing flashes of brilliance with her scoring and perimeter defence. In the2024 season, she elevated her performance, posting 11.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while becoming a key contributor for the Sparks.
“Fan/family,I’m excited to announce I will be experiencing my first year overseas playingfor Townsville Fire ! Huge thank you to the fire for allowing me to be apart!Please support us as we try to go win a championship!!!” said Cooke.
Townsville Fire General Manager Sam is thrilled to bring Cooke’s talents to the Fire. “Zia is an exciting player who will no doubt quickly become a fan favourite. Her scoring ability and competitive edge will fit perfectly into our system. We’re confident she’ll have an immediate impact as we push for a successful season.”
Head Coach Shannon Seebohm believes Cooke’s versatility will be a huge asset. “Zia has proven herself in one of the toughest leagues in the world. She’s a dynamic guard who can score from anywhere.