With two high-profile signings already on board, Durham Palatinates continue to build an impressive roster ahead of their maiden WBBL campaign after confirming they have signed Polish forward, Paula Tarnachowicz.

And the Massachusetts NCAA graduate, who has also played in the Portuguese League with Lousada prior to a spell in French basketball at Elan Bearnais, can’t wait go get started.

“I chose Durham Palatinates because it’s a great opportunity for me to continue playing basketball and to study at the same time,” said Tarnachowicz.

“I am thankful for the opportunity Durham is giving to me and after speaking to Coach Davie, I decided that it will be a great place for me to be.

“I don’t know what to expect because it will be my first year playing in WBBL , but I definitely expect us to win games, work hard and play good as a team. I believe I can bring passion, dedication and energy to the team. I am willing to work hard and get better as a player, but also be a good and helpful team mate. After playing 4 years in college and two years professional in Portugal and France, I believe that I can bring some experience to this team.

“My team mates are great on and off the court. They are all hard working and supportive, so I am happy to be a part of this group. I feel like our chemistry is great so far, so if we stick together and motivate each other to get better, I am sure we will have a good year.”

She continued: “I am extremely happy that I have a chance to be a part of a Durham programme where I can combine study and playing basketball. I definitely enjoyed being a student athlete when I was in America, so I am sure it will be a great experience for me. I definitely planned on getting my masters degree, so studying and playing professional basketball at the same time will be a great challenge.”

Coach Davie is also delighted with his new recruit and declared: “We are really excited to welcome Paula to both Durham University and Durham Palatinates. Bringing both American Collegiate and European experience to our programme, Paula has impressed me since arriving with her work ethic and desire to improve – something which will lead to some impressive performances in her time with us.

“Paula is extremely mobile, giving us a physical presence in transition. She has a good back to the basket post game when matched up against smaller players, and the ability to face up to take the taller players off the dribble.

“Defensively, she brings a lot of energy and passion to go a long with a physical presence inside. Paula’s mobility and size will definitely allow her to be a disruptive force inside,” concluded the play-caller.