Capitals sign New Zealand international Robati

The UC Capitals on Thursday unveiled the signing of New Zealand Tall Fern Sharne Robati to their WNBL27 roster.

Robati joins the Capitals following her debut WNBL campaign with the Adelaide Lightning last season.

The forward said the opportunity to join the Capitals and continue her growth in the WNBL was an exciting next step.

“I enjoyed my opportunity in Adelaide a lot, but talking with Paul [Goriss] and seeing the confidence he has in me to be able to grow more and play a consistent role drew me towards the Caps,” Robati said.

“I have also loved playing under Nat [Hurst] for the Tall Ferns, so I’m looking forward to continuing that connection here.”

Born in Auckland, Robati played college basketball in the United States at Utah State University Eastern before returning to New Zealand to spend several seasons in the Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa league.

The 25-year-old has also been a consistent contributor for the Tall Ferns, most recently representing New Zealand at the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers under the Capitals assistant coach Nat Hurst.

Caps coach, Paul Goriss, said Robati’s skillset and competitiveness make her an exciting addition to the group.

“Sharne impressed me during the Opals versus New Zealand Trans-Tasman series with her toughness, rebounding, and versatility to play both inside and outside,” Goriss said.

“She also brings the physicality from 3x3 with NZ and the ability to play through contact and defend one-on-one.

“I am excited to add Sharne to our team, and I believe she can really be a high-impact player for us doing all the little things.”

UC Capitals Executive General Manager, Christy Collier-Hill, said the club was thrilled to bring Robati into the program.

“We’re really excited to welcome Sharne to the Caps,” Collier-Hill said.

“She's been a stand-out for the Tall Ferns, and with her athleticism and versatility, she'll be an incredible asset to the group.

“Teaming up with her New Zealand head coach, Nat Hurst, will no doubt further enhance her development, and we're excited to see her on court in Caps colours this season.”

Robati, who is currently averaging 13 points, eight rebounds, and two assists per game for Casey in NBL1 South, joins Nyadiew Puoch and Isa Brancatisano on the Caps’ 2026-27 roster.

“We’re going to be playing some exciting basketball in Canberra, and I can’t wait to be among all the Caps fans, it’s going to be a great season.”