Standout Redback signs with hometown club for WNBL27

Image credit: Michael Bailey @hyperfocusimages

The Perth Lynx have continued their backcourt revamp with the signing of Samantha Ashby for their WNBL27 campaign, pending league approval.

After a year away from the NBL1, Ashby took a dramatic step up for the Perth Redbacks in 2026, averaging 21.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game in 35 minutes.

The 25-year-old guard brings presence on both ends, having hit 3.5 threes per game at a percentage of 38%, whilst also generating 2.5 steals per contest for a team that finished in the top half of this category in the NBL1 West.

This output led Ashby to NBL1 West All-Second Team credentials, springing an opportunity for her to deliver with her hometown WNBL team.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join the Perth Lynx for WNBL27,” she said.

“As a local player, it’s always been a goal of mine to earn the chance to play in the WNBL, so to do that with my hometown club is really special.

“I’ve loved my time with the Perth Redbacks, and I’m thankful to everyone who has helped me along the way.

“I’m excited to learn from the coaching staff and experienced players around me, and I’ll be ready to do whatever I can to contribute to the team’s success.”

Ashby’s Lynx will start WNBL27 the way their 2026 campaign ended, competing in a Grand Final rematch against the Townsville Fire on Saturday, October 17 at the Perth High Performance Centre.