Red City begins signing spree with Donnelly and Cooper recommitting

The Red City Roar have begun their off-season signing spree, locking in two key pieces of their women's program. 

Captain Kassandra Donnelly and up-and-coming star Jaylen Cooper will both be back in Roar singlets in 2022 to build on the team's inaugural NBL1 North season. 

Donnelly averaged 5.45 points, 2.36 assists and 7.00 rebounds per game while Cooper put up 10.72 points, 1.90 assists and 4.90 rebounds per game. 

Speaking about her return to the Roar, Cooper said: "I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to be playing for Red City at a Preeminent Development League level.

"I decided to return to Red City for another NBL1 season because I really love the family vibe and culture here.

"When I put on the Red City uniform I feel a sense of pride to represent my home association that I’ve been a part of from the beginning.

"I have really enjoyed being a part of Red City, I am involved in coaching, reffing and playing in the YDL.

"The junior program is such an integral part of Red City’s growth and if I can help in any way to mentor the younger players and to see them learn and grow, but especially to see the smile on their faces, makes it all worthwhile.

"It’s been incredible, learning and developing my skills with Coach Cass, I’ve got a lot to work on, but I’m excited and looking forward to the season ahead."

Coach Cassie Dover added: "Jaylen played a significant role for us last year in that she was one of the youngest, but played one of the biggest roles all while doing it out of position.

"This has meant she has fast-tracked her in-game knowledge and I love that she is always taking on feedback and wanting to be better.

"This year I am really looking forward to being able to play Jaylen within her preferred position and given how much she developed last year I truly believe this year will be her year to make a massive impact within the league.

"Having Red City juniors fill the roster is great for the association and for current juniors to look up to and aspire to be, Jaylen is a great example for them to follow!"

When asked what made her re-sign, Donnelly said: "I really loved playing with the girls last season.

"They are all amazing humans and I look forward to seeing how far we can grow together in NBL1 2022 and gain some experience.

"I also love the culture that Cass and the Red City Fam are building.

"The connection from seniors to juniors is super important to me and the women’s team have really been a part of that." 

Dover added: "Having Kassie return is huge for not just our team but for the whole program (NBL1, QSL and the juniors).

"Kassie was integral in building the culture last year with her commitment to her peers and to the whole Red City organisation.

"She has built great relationships within the community and the kids love her.

"On the floor, Kassie sets the example as a leader through her commitment, her efforts and sacrifice in games and at trainings.

"She is always positive and gives guidance to our less experienced players which is really important in what we are trying to build at Red City.

"I am extremely happy that we have her suiting up for the Roar again and she can continue to show her worth in the league."

View the 2022 NBL1 roster tracker here.