Reigning champions sign German international

The Townsville Fire have strengthened their frontcourt for the upcoming WNBL season, signing experienced German international Marie Gülich.

The 196-centimetre centre brings an impressive international resume to Townsville, having represented Germany on the world stage and competed across the WNBA and some of Europe’s strongest professional leagues.

Gülich was selected by Phoenix with the 12th overall pick in the first round of the 2018 WNBA Draft, before going on to make 66 appearances for the Mercury, Atlanta Dream and Los Angeles Sparks.

The 32-year-old has also enjoyed considerable success in Europe, winning championships in Poland and Spain, as well as the EuroCup Women title with Valencia Basket.

During her time with Valencia, Gülich helped the club secure seven titles, including consecutive Spanish league championships in 2023 and 2024.

Gülich is excited to add to her international resume with the Fire in WNBL27.

“I’m super-excited to join the Fire for this upcoming season,” Gülich said.

“I’m looking forward to joining the team in September and getting to know everyone."

Coach Shannon Seebohm said Gülich would bring experience, leadership and a strong interior presence to the Fire.

“Marie is an experienced and highly intelligent player who has competed at the highest levels of international basketball,” Seebohm said.

“She gives us genuine size and presence around the basket, but she is also a very skilled and versatile player who can contribute in several different ways.

“Marie understands how to play within successful teams and knows what is required to compete for championships.

“Her leadership, professionalism and international experience will be extremely valuable for our group.

“We believe she will complement our existing roster exceptionally well, and we are excited to welcome her to Townsville.”

Fire CEO Sam Pascoe said securing a player with the experience of Gülich, who will arrive in mid-September due to her 2026 FIBA World Cup commitment with Germany, was an important addition to the club’s roster.

“Marie has built an outstanding career across international basketball, and we are thrilled that she has chosen to continue that career with the Townsville Fire,” Pascoe said.

“She brings world-class experience, professionalism and leadership, as well as the size and ability to make an immediate impact on the court.

“Our supporters have always embraced international players who invest in our club and our community, and we believe Marie will be a fantastic addition to both.

“We are building an exciting and well-balanced roster for the upcoming season, and Marie will be a significant part of that.”

Gülich joins fellow import Lauren Jensen, on a Fire roster that features Courtney Woods, Abbey Ellis, Alicia Froling, Alex Fowler, Miela Sowah, Chloe Forster, and Emma Clarke.