SUPERCATS SIGN TOWERING STAR
THE Geelong Lady Supercats have received a boost of WNBL talent after securing athletic young star Zitina Aokuso for next year.
Aokuso, 20, is one of the country’s emerging talents, having shown tremendous growth and development this year for the Townsville Fire in the WNBL.
At 192cm, the Supercats say Aokuso has a rare ability to dunk the basketball and looms as a standout performer in Basketball Victoria’s new elite league, which replaces the SEABL.
After a disappointing SEABL title defence in 2018, Lady Supercats coach David Herbert was determined to find an athletic type capable of playing in an up-tempo game style.
He believes Aokuso is just the player the program needs.
“Zitina is exactly the player we were looking for — long, mobile, athletic and a player who works hard at both ends of the floor,” Herbert said.
“Her game is going to new levels with Townsville this year and we hope to continue her growth in 2019.
“She is such a tremendous athlete who has the world at her feet and we are excited Zitina has joined our program this year.”
Averaging eight points and six rebounds, Aokuso has made the most of her opportunities in the WNBL this season.
“At different times this year, whether it be injury or foul trouble, Zitina has come off the bench and been tremendous for Townsville in Australia’s premier women’s competition, the WNBL,” Herbert said.
“For someone so young, she has shown an ability to mix it with the best players in the country.
“We are looking forward to Zitina arriving in Geelong in the new year once she finishes her WNBL commitments.
“I am sure she will make a huge impact this year. I have been monitoring her progress for a number of years and really look forward to the opportunity to work with her and develop Zitina’s game further.”
Further announcements on marquee player signings are expected to be made early in the new year.