Cracknell all set for the Ballarat Rush

Basketball Ballarat have announced Millie Cracknell will join the Ballarat Rush for the 2021 NBL1 South Season.

Cracknell is all set for more regular senior opportunities in 2021 after playing across both the youth and senior teams in 2019.

“I am so excited to be in my hometown and play at the Ballarat Sports Events Centre for the Selkirk Ballarat Rush in the NBL1 this year," Cracknell said.

"After such an uncertain year in 2020 it is a privilege to be a part of the team, and I can’t wait for the season ahead with Eric Hayes and Megan Collins.”

Cracknell still has college ambitions so will see the upcoming season as a great opportunity for further development before seeking opportunities in the American college system.

“Obviously after being unable to play any basketball last year, I would like to work on my fitness and overall game. In these uncertain times I just want to get back to playing the best basketball I can and then assess the options for College opportunities from there,” Cracknell said.

Through Basketball Ballarat’s community basketball programs, Cracknell will be a regular face throughout the year at the programs as she helps develop the next generation of local talent.

“I already have a strong connection with the Ballarat community and look forward to continuing to grow this relationship," she said.

"I love being involved with the Adroit Junior Camps and training local kids, being able to watch them develop into young and aspiring basketballers. To see them watching our games, and coming up and engaging with us afterwards is very rewarding, and I hope to be able to continue this in the upcoming season.”

Coach Eric Hayes was looking forward to seeing Cracknell continue her development across the youth and senior teams. 

“It is great to have Millie in the program after she finished her strong performance in the Junior program and youth league," Hayes said.

"Millie is a very good shooter and ball handler so she will have a great opportunity to learn from our senior guards this year as she continues to grow and develop as a player.

“Millie will also be a strong part of the Youth League program where she will get some valuable experience that will help her transition to the NBL1 program.” 

Cracknell joins Alicia Froling, Claire Blower, Claire Constable, Kristy Rinaldi and Annie Collins as players announced on the Ballarat roster ahead of the 2021 NBL1 South Season.