Miners sign Matthews and Pozoglou

THE Ballarat Miners men’s and women’s squads have been bolstered by the return of Molly Matthews and Nic Pozoglou ahead of the 2022 NBL1 South season.

Ballarat local Matthews, who played junior basketball with Celtic Tigers while progressing through the junior program, made the move to Perth in 2018 with partner Pozoglou.

Head coach of the Miners Women, David Herbert, said he is pleased to see Matthews don her hometown jersey again.

“Molly had a solid season last year for Cockburn in the NBL1 West and we hope she can bring a level of experience to our youthful group,” he said.

“Molly has had experience at WNBL, SEABL and NBL1 levels and will be a valued member of our team.  She will fill a valuable role for our team both in a playing capacity and mentoring our younger players.”

Off the back of a stellar season where he claimed the NBL1 West MVP and Defensive Player of the Year averaging 17 points and 10.6 rebounds a game, Pozoglou said he is excited to come back home.

“Both Molly and I wanted to be able to come home and be closer to family while on the court,” he said.

“It’s an exciting time for Ballarat with the development finally completed of Selkirk Stadium.

“I will bring a big emphasis on the defensive side of things for the team as well as playing a big leadership role.

“The club has a lot of juniors coming through that are ready to take the next step so I’ll be trying to guide those guys along in the process whilst also leading by example on and off the court.”

Pozoglou joins players Jordan Lingard, Zac Dunmore, Will Hynes and head coach Luke Sunderland as the Miners latest signings.

“Signing Nic is a great coup for the Miners men’s side,” Sunderland said. “Seeing him firsthand in the NBL1 West this past season, I’m excited to have the opportunity to coach him.”

The Miners tip off their season on Saturday, 23 April at Selkirk Stadium against visitors Geelong Supercats.