Whitcomb makes WNBL comeback, Capitals sign Olympian
Sebastian Tan |
Opals captain Sami Whitcomb is returning to the WNBL, inking a new deal with the Perth Lynx in one of the league’s biggest free agency coups.
Whitcomb, who led the Bendigo Spirit to the competition’s championship in the 2024/2025 season, left to play in Europe last year.
But on Thursday, the Lynx announced the 2024/2025 MVP had committed to the Perth-based club on a two-year deal after previously representing them from 2015-18 and 2021-23.
The two-time WNBA champions’ signature is a significant addition for last season’s grand finalists, as they aim to win the WNBL for the first time since 1992.
“Committing to the Lynx and being based in Perth, with my family around me, is a dream scenario,” Whitcomb said.
“Our roster for next season is shaping up to be really exciting, and I’m excited to link up with Ryan (Petrik) and the team when I get back from my time with the Mercury in the WNBA and get stuck in.”
Whitcomb’s signing comes after the UC Capitals bolstered their roster by signing Opals’ Olympian star Amy Atwell from Perth.
Opal Zitina Aokuso announced her departure to the Adelaide Lightning on Wednesday, leaving a significant hole in Canberra’s squad, with star Jade Melbourne yet to sign.
Melbourne hasn’t ruled out leaving the club after previously telling AAP she felt the toll of having to play in the WNBL last season, weeks after her WNBA campaign finished.
With the American league landing a new collective bargaining agreement, which sees players’ salaries significantly rise, Canberra coach Paul Goriss said the league needed to sit down to discuss the possibility of losing some of its marquee players.
Regardless, Canberra have landed a big name in Atwell, who was instrumental in helping the Lynx reach last campaign’s grand final.
“I have always loved working with Goz (Goriss) at Opals commitments, and what I’m looking forward to most is building that connection on a more consistent basis,” the Paris Olympian and sharp shooter said.
“I just felt like I needed a change for my basketball career.
“I have only ever played for Perth, and I’m excited to see what else is out there and experience a new club and city.”
Elsewhere, Adelaide also poached rising star Jessica McDowell-White on Wednesday after her breakout season with the Sydney Flames.
She will join Aokuso, Opal Steph Talbot, young gun Dallas Loughridge and Tayla Brazel on the club’s roster as they look to rebound from a dismal season last campaign (6-17).
AAP