Ruef returns to Thunder

The Logan Thunder have announced the return of Mikaela Ruef for the 2021 NBL1 North Season.

Ruef returns for her third straight season with the Thunder after averaging 22 points, 18 rebounds and three assists per game in the 2020 QSL season where Logan won the championship.

Ruef was QBL MVP in 2019 and has spent her three WNBL seasons with the Canberra Capitals.

“It feels great to be back with the Thunder,” Ruef said.

“I’ve felt at home in Logan since I’ve come to Queensland so I’m happy to play another season here. Winning the QSL was fun last year and I think it really motivated our core group to stick together and to try and win NBL1 this season.

“Obviously the teams in the league will be better this season, but we built a lot of chemistry last year together and we’re hoping that will give us an advantage this season.

“The best part of the Thunder Family is the people. The volunteers and people associated with the club, love it so much and do whatever they can to make the club successful. It really is like you’re a part of the family and makes you feel like you belong.

“WNBL in the hub was a good experience. It gave me time to explore parts of the country I haven’t seen before, so I really enjoyed that. However, given it was so short and we had limited practice time, I took the opportunity to go and finish up the season in France.

“Coming here, I’ve been able to work more on my game and play more, so it will help me to be fit and ready and build my confidence going into the NBL1 season.”