Dee Hayward has signed for the Palatinates after several successful seasons impressing with Leicester Riders.

Speaking of her transfer to Durham, Hayward said: “The opportunity to develop further individually is was what attracted me to the programme – and also being a part of the first team to use the new facilities.”

Hayward promises to be a big defensive presence this season, whilst also bringing her experience within the WBBL – something that will be of great benefit to the Palatinates this year.

Speaking about the forthcoming season she continued: “I think sticking together within times of adversity will be important, we are just learning to play together so it will be interesting to see how we progress.”

Following the £32 million development of the facilities at the new Sports and Wellbeing Park and what it will mean for sport in the community, Hayward also took the time to talk about what the local support would mean for the team.

She commented: “Local support creates an atmosphere that makes it fun to play and having support in the new facility would create a culture around women’s basketball that is enjoyable to watch.

“Those that are watching can expect a fast paced game, with an attack mentality at both ends of the floor.”