German import brings experience and stature to Giants

The Northern Star Resources Goldfields Giants have turned to Europe in the signing of their first women’s import Anne Zipser.

Set to join the Giants from Germany, Zipser, who stands at 191cm, is expected to bring height to the centre position and a wealth of international experience.

Zipser’s signing marks another important move for the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Basketball Association in the lead up to the season which begins on April 6 for the Giants.

The 25-year-old will make her NBL1 West debut after playing for USC Heidelberg Bascats for most of her professional career and childhood.

Starting basketball at 7-years-old, Zipser also played for the youth national team of Germany, TG Würzburg Sharks, TSV 1880 Wasserburg, German Women National Team and TKH Hannover.

On her signing, the centre said she is excited to head back to Kalgoorlie-Boulder and train with the team again after attending some sessions with the women while visiting the region in 2022.

“I am really looking forward to coming back to Kalgoorlie and meeting the girls again and this time actually standing on the court with them not just in practice but also in the games,” she said.

“I expect to play on a good competitive level, with a little bit of a different playing and training style than the European teams.

“Some former opponents and teammates of mine from the German league or the national team have played in the NBL 1 before and some have adapted their game and some integrated their moves and reads into their team and challenged the opponent in doing so. “I’m looking forward to see what works best for the team.”

Zipser said she likes to “set good screens” as much as she likes posting up.

“I love being part of a team. Helping out on defense is as much my responsibility as keeping my own opponent away from the rim,” she said.

Head coach Jaymi Worthington said she is looking forward to Zipser joining her squad.

"Being 6’3, she’s got a big presence inside the paint, but on top of that, Anne also brings a wealth of experience,” she said.

“Culturally, I think she will be a great fit for us too, quite a few of the current playing group know her already so I can’t wait for her to get here.”

Zipser will train with the USC Heidelberg Bascats and spend two weeks working out in the United States before arriving in Kalgoorlie-Boulder in mid-March to join preseason training.

Player profile:

Date Of Birth: 4th August, 1998

From: Heidelberg, Germany

Height: 191cm

Position: Centre

Giants Playing Number: TBA

Recruited from: USC Heidelberg

Career:

2012-2018 – USC Heidelberg

2018 – German Women National Team

2020 - TSV 1880 Wasserburg

2021-2022 – TKH Hannover