Tasmania's Bold Bid for WNBL Success

Tasmania is closing in on another major signing as the newest WNBL franchise continues to build a roster capable of contending from day one, according to basketball commentator Megan Hustwaite.

Speaking about the Tasmia Jewels’ early recruitment moves, Hustwaite revealed the club is expected to add another “big name Opal” to its inaugural roster in what would be another statement move from the league’s newest side. 

“I’m expecting another big name Opal to sign with Tasmania,” Hustwaite said. 

“I’m not sure when that will be announced, but that will certainly be a huge step forward for them.”

The rumoured signing would add to what is already shaping as one of the competition’s most intriguing line-ups, with the Jewels recently securing former Opals forward Darcee Garbin.

Garbin’s return to the WNBL comes after taking time away from the game following the birth of her daughter, Rose, in December. Garbin will reunite with inaugural Tasmania Head Coach Claudia Brassard after the pair won Championships together in Townsville.

Hustwaite said Garbin’s comeback was one of the feel-good stories heading into WNBL27. 

“It’s a great story,” Hustwaite said.

“It’s wonderful to see another mum return to the WNBL and perhaps even the top international level after giving birth.

“She is a fantastic addition for Tasmania.”

Garbin’s signing follows the recruitment of the well-established Keely Froling and Andie Smith, sister to WNBA star Alanna Smith, on an amateur Development Player contract. Tasmania is masking no secret of its ambition to immediately challenge for a Championship rather than simply easing into the competition. 

“I think they absolutely can,” Hustwaite said when asked whether the Jewels could mirror the success of the NBL’s Tasmania Jack Jumpers.

The Jewels still have several roster spots to fill ahead of their inaugural campaign, but early signs suggest Tasmania is intent on making an immediate impact on the WNBL.