Werribee Devils have further strengthened links with Nicholls State University.
Last season’s men’s state championship imports Jeremy Smith and Fred Hunter both came through the college based in Thibodaux, Louisiana.
So important were they for the Devils last year that coach Michael Czepil invited them back to the club this season.
The Nicholls State influence will be even stronger at Werribee this season.
Devils women’s coach Mahaela Jackson has decided to bring in Sumar Leslie, another graduate of Nicholls State.
Leslie comes with a big endorsement from Smith, who brought the talented point guard to the attention of the Devils.
In her senior year, Leslie led Nicholls State to its first ever win in the Southland Conference Tournament.
After her college career, Leslie travelled abroad to play in Puerto Rico, where she played in the Pro League before taking time off for family commitments.
Leslie has spent 12 months in the gym to get game fit, and will pick up her basketball career with Werribee.
Leslie is likely to be the Devils starting point guard and a leader for the team.
“It’s an absolute honour to continue my career in Australia,” Leslie said.
“This is a team and an opportunity that I believe fits me, and a coaching staff that is ideal for my play.
“I’ve dedicated myself to the sport harder in the past 12 months than I ever have in my life,” she said. “I think the Devils are going to be getting someone committed to winning at a high level and competing every single night.
“After extensive research, my team and I have learned a lot about Australia, its culture, its people and the wonderful things there, and I’m so excited to get started in that chapter.”
Leslie will join the team for preseason training next month. Meanwhile, Werribee has appointed the well-travelled Reece Potter as its player and coach development manager.
The Devils also unveiled Andrew Summerville as the club’s business manager.
Lance Jenkinson
