Australian Opal Steph Reid has signed with the Tasmania Jewels as the expansion club’s marquee player ahead of their debut WNBL season.
Reid, 29, is returning to Australia after stints in Europe and Asia to join the Jewels, who’ll begin their first season in the WNBL in October.
Jewels coach Claudia Brassard said the signing was a landmark moment for the new team.
“Signing Steph is a significant moment for our club,” Brassard said.
“Steph brings a level of experience that is incredibly valuable for an expansion club and she’s exactly the type of player you build around.”
Brassard said Reid’s story of overcoming doubters made her the perfect fit for Tasmania. She is only five foot six tall.
“She’s an elite athlete and relentless point guard, but what stands out most is her resilience,” she said.
“Steph never made a state team as a junior, she was told she’s too short, not good enough.”
“Yet, she didn’t let anyone stop her or their doubts define her.”
“She’s the underdog who succeeded. She’s Tasmania personified. She’s Tasmania in a Jewels jersey.”
Reid said her competitive nature has been a driving force throughout her career.
“Am I competitive? Oh yeah. Ever since I was little I wanted to win everything, whether it was a race to the front seat of the car or a basketball game,” Reid said.
“I’ve heard a lot about Tasmania punching above its weight, about the underdog mentality, and I can definitely relate to that.”
Reid will move to Tasmania in the coming months with goals to inspire and to win.
“To have this chance to build a culture and legacy at a team, I’m really excited for that,” she said.
“You can’t be what you can’t see, so it’s an amazing opportunity to connect with young Tassie girls and boys.”
“But without doubt, I’m also here to win, to be at the top and make a splash.”
“How historic would it be to win a championship from year one, I think we have the makings to achieve that.”
Reid’s signing is pending WNBL review and approval.
She joins Darcee Garbin and Keely Froling as rostered players committed to the Jewels, alongside local development players Nikki Parker and Andie Smith.
The Jewels will split their home games between MyState Bank Arena in Hobart and the Silverdome in Launceston.
