Samuels signs with Miners

WNBL veteran and Bendigo Spirit championship forward Casey Samuels has joined the Ballarat Miners for their 2026 NBL1 South campaign.

The 31-year-old heads to the Miners after an injury-interrupted third season with the WNBL’s Spirit, with whom she won a championship in 2024-25.

Miners women’s head coach Brendan Joyce said Samuels would bring extensive experience, leadership and versatility to Ballarat ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Samuels boasts an impressive resume as a current 14-year WNBL veteran.

She debuted in the women’s national league in 2010 with the Australian Institute of Sport and has since played with the Canberra Capitals, Sydney Uni Flames, Townsville Fire and the Spirit.

In 2024, she was crowned Halls medallist as the women’s MVP in the NBL1 Central while leading Central Districts Lions to a championship, underlining her ability to lead and elevate a roster through consistent all-around performance.

Samuels was restricted to just four games for the Spirit this season due to a foot injury.

Inactive after their round two win over the Geelong Venom, she returned to the lineup for the Spirit’s 2-0 semi-final series loss against the Perth Lynx.

Joyce said he was thrilled to have Samuels join the Miners.

“It is fantastic to welcome Casey to our women’s team for this NBL1 season,” he said.

“She will bring experience, toughness and versatility to play both the 3 and 4 positions.

“She is renowned for her great shooting ability, and we are looking forward to Casey playing an important role for us this season.”

The Miners kick off their season at home against arch-rival Bendigo on 28 March.

Memberships are now available.

For details, visit minersrush.memberlink.net.au/memberhome