In a move set to add some serious depth for 2021, Molly Mathews joins an exciting young line-up for the Cougar women for the inaugural NBL1 West season.
Mathews was formally a development player with the Bendigo Spirit in the WNBL, played in the SEABL for the Ballarat Rush, and most recently was with the Melbourne Tigers for the 2019 NBL1 South (Victoria) season.
The 25-year-old forward has spent time in WA previously with partner Nic Pozoglou, and is looking forward to returning and enjoying both the on and off court spoils of Western Australia.
“Being fortunate enough to have lived in WA made coming back a no brainer,” Mathews said.
“We love the time we spent there and can’t wait to get back over.
“The WA lifestyle is second-to-none, and reconnecting with some great friends we met when we were here last makes the transition all that much easier.
“Add to that I get to bring some experience to a young group that clearly wants to get better is something I am very much looking forward to.”
Cockburn Cougars CEO and women’s head coach Tyrone Thwaites said Molly brings depth to a group that is ready for a different looking 2021.
“Molly brings experience that is invaluable to our group,” he said.
“She has spent time at the WNBL level and has been around professional programs – this is a great asset for our young girls who have aspirations of reaching the top level of basketball in Australia.
“She can stretch the floor, she’s a great rebounder for her size and brings the ability to play both inside and out.
“We were searching for versatility this off-season to build on our base of guards, with Molly complementing Taylah Simmons, Jessie Edwards and Olivia Bassett-Scarfe in building depth for 2021.”
The ladies core group is now complete, with a number of Cougar juniors due to be signed in the New Year. There are now four Cougars with WNBL experience who complement the experience of the existing group to build a very positive dynamic for 2021.
“The most exciting part of 2021 for us is being able to create an environment for our future to learn from,” Thwaites said.
“Tia, Kahlia, Sally, Kiera, Haylee, Tilly and our wider group of locals probably haven’t had the experience around them to really help them grow and reach the next level we know they are all capable of.
“This is why the next 12 months is so important – to help build an environment that makes everyone better, and ultimately, have all our group rise to the challenge.”
Molly will arrive in early March next year in time for mid-April WNBL tip-off.