Former Opals Olympian headlines Phoenix NBL1 Women’s Signings

The Sunshine Coast Phoenix has made its inaugural NBL1 North season intentions clear, signing former Opals Olympian and WNBL star Kathleen MacLeod to their women’s program.

A member of the 2012 Opals London Olympics bronze medal-winning team, MacLeod brings a wealth of experience to the Phoenix program with a distinguished career including WNBL stints at the AIS, Dandenong Rangers and Bendigo Spirit and international playing experience with European clubs Reze Nantes (France) and Euroleague powerhouse MKB Sopron (Hungary).

A former WNBL Rookie of the Year and two-time Junior World Championship silver medallist with the Australian Gems program, MacLeod recently moved to the Sunshine Coast region with her young family and is excited to be returning to the court with former Australian teammates and assisting the next generation of Phoenix juniors as they make the transition into the NBL1 ranks. 

Phoenix Women’s Head Coach Darren Browne was thrilled to add a player of MacLeod’s calibre to his team as they prepare for the upcoming NBL1 North season.

"We are fortunate and very excited to have Kathleen on the Phoenix NBL1 roster for 2021," he said.

"Her basketball resume is world-class and speaks for itself.

"We are looking forward to having Kathleen in the backcourt guiding the team, creating plays, and making her teammates better.

"Her basketball IQ will stand us in good stead when we are in tough situations."

MacLeod shared the sentiments of her coach, at the opportunity to return to the court with the Phoenix in the newly revamped NBL1 North competition.

"I am very excited to be returning to basketball for the upcoming NBL1 season and I feel fortunate to have this opportunity with the Sunshine Coast Phoenix," she said. 

"The club and everyone involved has been so welcoming, and I have a great vibe about this team and the season ahead!"

The Phoenix Women’s and Men’s team will play part in the NBL1 North “Rivalry Round” season launch, when they take on the University of Sunshine Coast Rip City on Thursday 13 May at USC Stadium.

The Women’s game will tip-off at 6.30pm, with the Men’s action starting at 8.30pm.