Spirit sign sharpshooter Clarke ahead of Championship run

The first-placed Bendigo Spirit have announced the signing of sharpshooter Emma Clarke, as their Championship defence heads towards the pointy end of the season.

Clarke, who has played at both the Perth Lynx and Sydney Flames during her WNBL career, joins Kennedy Kereama's side on a two-year deal, with the remainder of the WNBL26 season being as a Nominated Replacement Player for five-time champion Marianna Tolo, who is pregnant with her first child, and Casey Samuels, who recently underwent foot surgery.

Australian Gangurrus representative Clarke, who has 78 appearances to her name, is excited to add firepower to the three-time WNBL champions.

"In the time I’ve spent with the Spirit at practice and around the group, I can see why they’re such a successful program," Clarke said.

"It’s an awesome program, and I’m excited and honoured to be a part of it in my next chapter.

"I love the style of play and the energy the girls bring. From the front office and performance team through to the coaching staff and Kennedy, who has been super impactful in bringing all of this together, I’m excited for what’s to come."

Clarke, who established herself as a two way player that can play both forward positions, believes she can be an asset and help the 13-2 Spirit, who are on a 10-game win streak, on their road to back-to-back titles.

"For me at 25, I feel like a young veteran in a way," said Clarke, whose career-high of 17 points came against Townsville during the WNBL24 season.

"[I believe I have so] much to give on the court but also five years of WNBL experience, I want to do everything in my power to support the team in whatever way is necessary for us to continue to be successful.

"Kennedy and I have had many great chats, and I have lots of confidence in my skillset and what I bring.

"Whether it’s perimeter shooting, playmaking, defensive versatility, or consistently bringing the competitive edge night in, night out, I’m committed to being the best version of myself within the group."

Clarke's debut is slated for the Spirit's clash with former side Sydney on Monday, January 5, from 5pm at Qudos Bank Arena.

Tickets to that Round 12 game, which will be broadcast on ESPN and 9Now, are still available here.