Spirit squad takes shape

THE Bendigo Spirit final squad for the upcoming WNBL team is coming together.

Since June, there have been several announcements of re-signings and player returns, and coach Kennedy Kereama will be looking to make the most out of his first season at the helm.

Four-time WNBL champion and 2019 WNBL most valuable player, Kelsey Griffin, will be a one squad member local fans will be keeping their eyes on.

The third pick in the 2010 WNBA draft is back in Bendigo, where she won two WNBL championships in 2013 and 2014 in an eight-season stint.

The American-born forward spent the last two seasons at the UC Capitals.

Bendigo Braves players Abbey Wehrung and Megan McKay will also line up for the Spirit, after positive seasons in the NBL1 South.

Wehrung averaged just under 18 points and five rebounds for the Braves this season, while McKay’s average of just under 21 points and 12 rebounds saw her named the teams outstanding player at the 2022 Braves awards.

Alicia Froling, who also averaged a points and rebounds double-double, is another name returning to Bendigo.

Most recently playing for the Kereama-coached Knox Raiders in the NBL1 South, Froling spent the 2021-22 WNBL season with the UC Capitals.

Australian Opal Tessa Lavey also committed to the Spirit this week, with the 29-year-old guard bringing her experience at the highest level to the team.

Lavey was part of the squad that made the quarter finals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and will compete at this month’s FIBA Women’s World Cup.

The players join Alex Wilson and Anneli Maley on the 2022/23 Bendigo Spirit roster.

The team’s 16 round home and away season starts with a double-header, facing UC Capitals on the road on Friday, 4 November and Perth at home on Sunday, 6 November.