Spirit add duo to exciting young core

The Bendigo Spirit announced on Thursday Olivia Olechnowicz and Catherine MacGregor would be joining the club as Development Players, pending League approval.

Olechnowicz arrives in Bendigo after graduating from Basketball Australia's Centre of Excellence program and will join the squad as an Amateur Development Player.

The Queenslander enjoyed an outstanding international campaign with Australia at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup, where she was recognised as the tournament's Defensive Player of the Tournament.

She was also recently selected in Australia's squad for the upcoming Under 18s Women's Asia Cup.

MacGregor returns to the club after serving as a Development Player last season, where she impressed coaches and teammates with her professionalism and commitment to improving her game.

The versatile forward will continue her development within the Spirit program as she looks to take the next step in her basketball journey.

Bendigo Spirit General Manager, Dan Jackson, said the club was excited to welcome the two players into the program.

"We're delighted to have Olivia and Catherine join our program for the upcoming season," Jackson said.

"Both players bring different strengths and experiences, but what they have in common is a genuine desire to learn, improve and make the most of the opportunity in front of them.

"Olivia arrives with outstanding credentials from both the Centre of Excellence and the Australian junior program, while Catherine did a terrific job last season and we're pleased to have her back.

"She gained valuable experience around our group, and we're looking forward to seeing her continue that growth throughout WNBL27.

"As a club, we're committed to providing opportunities for emerging talent, and we believe both players will benefit enormously from being part of our environment while also making valuable contributions to the group."

Olechnowicz and MacGregor will join the travelling party for this weekend's Townsville Tip Off pre-season tournament, alongside local Bendigo prospects Mia Harvey and Jess Smith, who will also travel with the squad.

Read more >> TechnologyOne Townsville Tip Off: Schedule, tickets & how to watch