Deanna Black Appointed Head Coach of NBL1 Champions IGA Bendigo Braves Women for 2025 and 2026 Seasons

The Bendigo Braves are excited to announce the appointment of Deanna Black as Head Coach of our NBL1 Champions IGA Women’s team for the upcoming 2025 and 2026 seasons.

A Bendigo local and accomplished athlete, Deanna brings an unparalleled level of experience and passion to the role, having played and coached at the elite level both in Australia and overseas.

Deanna boasts a remarkable 20-year playing career in the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL), where she won multiple championships, including a successful stint with the Bendigo Spirit. She has earned numerous accolades such as being a 3-time All Star 5 member, leading scorer, and free-throw shooter.

Deanna's excellence was further recognised through her induction as a WNBL Life Member and her selection in the Australian Opals squad, where she toured multiple countries representing the nation.

“I am extremely excited to be the new Head Coach of the Champions IGA Bendigo Braves Women’s team – a highly successful NBL1 program which has a rich history and a bright future," said Deanna.

“As a Bendigo local, I take a great deal of pride in being not only a part of a great club but also the community and am grateful for such a wonderful opportunity to give back to where my basketball dreams all began.”

Her professional playing experience also extends internationally, with several years competing in European leagues. Domestically, Deanna was a pivotal player in the NBL1/SEABL/ABA competitions, securing a championship with the Bendigo Braves Women.

As a coach, Deanna has excelled since joining Bendigo Spirit as an Assistant Coach in September 2022. She has also led teams in the NBL1 West, guiding them to playoffs and winning a Championship as Head Coach. She holds a Level 3 coaching qualification and was selected for Basketball Australia’s Elite Female Coaching Advancement Program.

Growing up in Bendigo, Deanna is a former Junior Braves player, and she remains committed to enhancing local athlete development. Her passion for supporting pathways for young athletes and leveraging technology to optimise performance aligns with her vision for the Bendigo Braves’ elite Women’s programs.

“We are delighted to secure a Head Coach with the playing and coaching record that Deanna has. A WNBL life member who has represented Australia, she knows what is required in elite basketball. She also played in a Championship-winning team with Bendigo Braves,” said Craig Armstead, GM – Sport, Red Energy Arena.

Deanna’s experience and vision will no doubt lead the Bendigo Braves Women to continued success as we look ahead to the 2025 and 2026 seasons.