Durham Palatinates have seen a number of new faces in recent weeks and month, with head coach Lee Davie extremely excited at what lies in wait for the remainder of the campaign.
Betsy MacDonald has already shown what she can do with some big offensive displays and has been a central player throughout.
“We’re really excited to have Betsy with us over the next two seasons, while she complete her Masters in Education,” said Davie.
“I love to watch Betsy play, there aren’t many players in the WBBL that combine the ability to handle the ball, with the footwork and shooting that she possesses.
“It’s led to her creating some wide open shots, and against the defensive pressure and game clock, she needs just the smallest amount of space to make a lot of tough shots.”
Meanwhile French forward Rudi Eduardo brings experience from playing in her homeland, the NCAA and also Italy, Ecuador, Denmark and Spain.
“Rudi is going to give us the versatility we need during the remainder of the season as we push forward towards a Trophy and Playoff run. Rudi is going to be a tough match up on both sides of the ball,” insisted Davie.
“Offensively she’s going to be a tough match up for bigs as she can out run them in transition, while in the half court she’s good off the dribble, with good vision and passing. Against a smaller match up, she has the height and uses her strength really well in the post.
“Defensively she’s going to give us the ability to use her across the floor in a variety of situations. She’s quick enough and long enough, with a willingness to compete against both match ups both inside and on the perimeter.”
Last but not least, is a face already familiar to British Basketball fans in the shape of Rhianna-Mae Laing – a player who has stepped out in the WBBL with BA London Lions previously.
“It’s great to be working again with Rhi and she has come along way since our time together in the England U15 Development squad,” mused the play-caller.
“Her desire to compete and improve has driven her to be one of the bright GB players of the future.
“Offensively she’s very good at leading the break with excellent court vision and with a great ability to find people wherever they are. She’s very strong off the dribble with the ability to bully her way into the lane, where she has a variety of moves around the rim.
He added, “Defensively, Rhi’s very focussed and committed to making life difficult for whoever is in front of her. She’s quick enough to keep guards in front of her and is very good at using her body to angle the ball away from the rim.”
Laing is with Palatinates for the remainder of the campaign, before heading back out to the States to finish her undergraduate degree.