Spirit lifted in Bendigo: Local rising star joins for WNBL27

Image credit: Andrew Scherer - DLNQNT Photography

Local rising star Mia Harvey has signed with the Bendigo Spirit for the WNBL27 Season on an Amateur Development Player deal, the club announced on Wednesday.

The 18-year-old guard showed strong development in 2026, highlighted by her NBL1 performances.

In 16 NBL1 South games for the Bendigo Braves, she averaged 10.6 points, 2.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game.

She improved in all three categories compared to the previous season, while shooting at a higher efficiency from the field and playing more minutes.

Her NBL1 form earned her selection in the 2026 FIBA Under-18 Women’s Asia Cup squad, and she has since been named in Victoria’s team for the 2027 Under-20 National Championships.

Bendigo Spirit General Manager Dan Jackson was excited for the local product to take the next step in her young career within the Bendigo basketball pathway.

“We’re delighted to welcome Mia into our Development Player program for WNBL27,” Jackson said.

“Mia has come through our local pathway, and it’s exciting to see another Bendigo athlete earning this opportunity.

“She’s worked hard to get to this point and has a genuine desire to learn and improve, and we’re looking forward to seeing her continue to develop within our program.

“As a club, we’re committed to providing opportunities for emerging talent, particularly those coming through our local pathways, and we believe Mia will benefit enormously from being part of our environment.”

After a narrow loss to start WNBL27, the Spirit will host defending champions Townsville on Tuesday, October 27 at the Red Energy Arena, live from 7pm AEDT on 9Now and ESPN via Disney+.