Opals star joins Bendigo Spirit

FOUR-time WNBL champion, Australian Opal and Olympian Marianna Tolo, has signed with Bendigo Spirit.

The 34-year-old centre has joined for the 2024-25 season.

“I’m excited to get to Bendigo and start a new journey under Kennedy [Kereama] ,” Tolo said. “I’ve had experience being coached by him previously in the NBL1 and I look forward to working with him again.

“Additionally, I’m excited to be playing with one of my closest friends in Kelsey [Griffin]. She is the ultimate professional and I think we play well together.

“Finally, I’m looking forward to getting to know the Bendigo region better. I’m hoping to find some gold off the court, as well as on.”

On the Opals tour to Japan, Tolo was named Most Impressive Player, averaging 16.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists over the two games. She comes to Bendigo from a stint playing for Spanish team Spar Girona.

Coach Kereama said he has been keeping an eye on Tolo, the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year.

“Tolo has been on my radar for the past two years, so we are very excited to have finally recruited her here to Bendigo,” he said.

“Having coached against Tolo internationally and coached her at NBL1 level, I can attest to her work ethic, professionalism, leadership and skills.

“Her ability to defend the rim, rebound, anchor a team defensively, block shots, set screens, rim run, finish in multiple ways, and pass the ball will enhance our performance at both ends of the court.

“Tolo’s international and WNBL experience will be a significant asset to our program. Reuniting her with Kelsey Griffin, a proven winning combination, will elevate our team with Tolo’s leadership and winning mentality.

“Tolo has a track record of success, most recently reaching the finals with her team Spar Girona and winning four WNBL championships. We look forward to welcoming her once pre-season begins.”