The Cairns Dolphins have announced the signing of Penina “Nina” Davidson for the upcoming 2022 Coles Express NBL1 North season, joining Cayla George under Head Coach Myra Donkin.
Davidson has played for the Melbourne Boomers for the past three years and is currently competing alongside George for the 2021-22 season.
The Boomers are currently sitting third on the WNBL ladder, with Davidson averaging 4.8 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.0 steals per game.
Originally from New Zealand, the Tall Ferns representative has won two silver medals at FIBA Oceania Championships (2013, 2015) played in two Olympic Qualifying Tournaments (2016, 2019) and two FIBA Asia Cups (2019, 2021).
The 26-year-old attended the University of California and played for the Golden Bears in the PAC-12 Conference (NCAA Division I) before signing with the Adelaide Lightning to begin her basketball career.
Entering just her fourth professional year, the accomplished 6'3" forward said it was an easy decision to sign in Cairns after enjoying her time in the 2020 WNBL Hub and previous holidays to the region.
"I’ve really loved Cairns every time I have visited, so it didn’t take much convincing once Cayla planted the seed in my head to come to the Dolphins," Davidson said.
"They are doing some exciting things with their women’s program, and it’s cool to be part of this new era for them.
"I’ve heard nothing but great things about Cairns Basketball and the passionate fanbase they have up there. I think it’s going to be a really fun season!"
Dolphins Head Coach Myra Donkin said she was thrilled to spearhead the team with George and now Davidson.
"Nina is such a big coup for us – she’s a great athlete that will bring so much depth to our roster," Donkin said.
"She’s so experienced that it’s easy to forget she’s only 26 and could have a massive impact on the NBL1 North competition.
"We are obviously always promoting the strength of our junior programs in Cairns, and this is another testament to that.
"These athletes know they are joining the Dolphins to compete for this community and lead the way for so many talented young girls here."
View the 2022 NBL1 roster tracker here.
Feature image taken by Ian Knight Photography.
