Wouldn't Reid About It: Jewels make major move

The Tasmania Jewels announced a landmark move on Monday, with Steph Reid committing to the club, pending League review and approval.

Victorian-born Reid, 29, returns to Australia after successful stints in Europe and Asia to don the eucalypt jersey, and Jewels Coach Claudia Brassard couldn’t be more thrilled.

“Signing Steph is a significant moment for our club,” Brassard said.

“Steph brings a level of experience that is incredibly valuable for an expansion club, and she’s exactly the type of player you build around.

“She’s an elite athlete and relentless point guard, but what stands out most is her resilience.

“Steph never made a state team as a junior; she was told she’s too short, not good enough.

“Yet, she didn’t let anyone stop her or their doubts define her. She kept believing in herself, working hard and playing harder. She’s the underdog who succeeded. She’s Tasmania personified. She’s Tasmania in a Jewels jersey.”

Reid is a WNBL24 champion and an Australian Opal. Coming in at 5’6”, Reid admits she was born a competitor who plays bigger than her stature.

“Am I competitive? Oh yeah. Ever since I was little, I wanted to win everything, whether it was a race to the front seat of the car or a basketball game,” Reid said.

“I’ve heard a lot about Tasmania punching above its weight, about the underdog mentality, and I can definitely relate to that.”

Reid will move to Tasmania in the coming months and has two clear goals: to inspire and win.

“To have this chance to build a culture and legacy at a team, I’m really excited for that,” Reid said.

“To build on what the JackJumpers have achieved with a women’s team will make a huge difference.

“You can’t be what you can’t see, so it’s an amazing opportunity to connect with young Tassie girls and boys.

“But without doubt, I’m also here to win, to be at the top and make a splash.

“How historic would it be to win a championship in year one? I think we have the makings to achieve that.”

Reid will join the team alongside Darcee Garbin and Keely Froling as rostered players committed to the Jewels, with local Tasmanian junior Nikki Parker and Andie Smith as Development players.