The Southern Districts Spartans have signed Andre Ugrinic, Jake Allen, Thomas Ammar, Kobe McDowell-White and Lauryn Hippolite for the 2022 Coles Express NBL1 North season.
Welcoming his first child earlier this year, Ammar will be ready to swap the diaper duties for baskets when he suits up for the Darkside as they look to rebuild in 2022.
"Tommy is that experienced, reliable player who adds so much depth to our roster," coach Aja Parham-Ammar said.
"He hits the boards hard at both ends, plays big and can stretch the floor, which is the style of game we'll be pushing for this season."
One of 2021’s most prolific scorers, McDowell-White is returning to his junior club for 2022.
In what is a major coup for the Southern Districts, McDowell-White will be a key member of the Spartans' line-up, having shown maturity and skills beyond his years in his first season of NBL1.
"Kobe is without a doubt destined for great things," Parham-Ammar said.
"He well and truly announced himself last season, and I’m really pleased he has decided to come back to Spartans for 2022.
"He is a vital piece of our rebuild, and I’m excited to watch his growth."
Contributing at both ends of the court, Allen is a veteran and leader whose work ethic and one-percenters bring immeasurable value to the side.
"I'm really happy Jake is back with us this season," Parham-Ammar said.
"He's reliable, knows the game, knows his game, and shares his experience with the younger guys.
"Our rebuild relied on having players like Jake back at the Darkside this season and his basketball IQ is a big part of that."
Spartans junior and crowd favourite Ugrinic is back with the Darkside for the NBL1 North 2022 Season.
The 'glue guy' for this Spartans lineup, Ugrinic was a key signing for coach Parham-Ammar as she looked to rebuild for the 2022 season.
"Andre is a work horse," she said.
"He gives you everything, every game.
"He has some great basketball IQ and is incredibly athletic.
"He's going to crash the boards, he's going to hit the big shots. And he does it all without fuss."
Hailing from Nelson, New Zealand and playing the guard position, Hippolite is currently suiting up as a Development Player for the Melbourne Boomers in the WNBL.
Standing 174cm tall, Hippolite spent time at Division II college Hawaii Pacific, after representing New Zealand at U16 and U18 level.
"I'm so excited for my first NBL1 signing, and especially for it to be with the Lady Spartans," she said.
"I hope I can help the team have a successful season and can't wait to get up there."
Coach Dwight Hicks sees a lot of potential in the young 21-year-old.
"We love her energy and work ethic," he said.
"She could play full-court man all game if that's what we needed and brings added depth to our lineup.
"It's hard not to compare her to Micaela Cocks when you look at her style of play.
"She will definitely be one to watch this season."
