Feature image via: Hyperfocus Images
Superstar Anneli Maley says the NBL1 has been the perfect preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The 3x3 women’s ‘Gangurrus’ locked in Australia’s first-ever appearance in the format at the Olympics earlier this year, off the back of Maley’s sensational play.
Related: Gangurrus locked in for 2024 Olympics
Between her commitments to the National Team, Maley was looking to make Western Australia home this off-season – after a runners-up finish in the WNBL Grand Final with the Perth Lynx.
The entire conference was after Maley’s signature once it became known she was looking to stay in WA, according to Mandurah coach Vlad Alava.
Related: WNBL MVP makes conference-shaking move
However, Maley explained the Perth Redback’s flexibility when it came to her availability with Olympic preparation was critical in leading her to the club.
“NBL1 has been a really important aspect of my Olympic prep,” she told NBL Media.
“The Redbacks are so supportive and practices are super competitive. The NBL1 West is a really fun and competitive environment that has pushed me to play harder but also allowed me to work on parts of my game that I need to in preparation for Paris.”
During July and August, Maley, alongside Warwick Marena Whittle, North Adelaide’s Lauren Mansfield and Bendigo’s Ally Wilson, will take on the best of the best at the Paris Olympics.
