American Natalie Chou to star again in NBL1 West

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American Natalie Chou to star again in NBL1 West

Natalie Chou #23 of the UCLA Bruins looks on during the first half of a game against the Virginia Cavaliers at UCLA Pauley Pavilion on November 21, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Katharine Lotze/Getty Images

NBL1 West superstar Natalie Chou returns to Redbacks in 2025

NBL1 West First Team member and ANZAC Medallist Natalie Chou has re-signed with the Perth Redbacks for the 2025 season.

After a dominant season with the Eastern Suns, the 26-year-old American made the move to the Redbacks and brought them back into finals contention.

For the season, she averaged 18.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 3.8 steals for the sixth-seeded squad.

"I’m so excited to be back in Perth for 2025," Chou told NBL Media.

"Thank you to the coaches and support staff for allowing me the opportunity to represent the Redbacks again.

"We’ve started building something really special last year and I can’t wait to continue to grow with the girls both on and off of the court."

Natalie Chou #23 of the UCLA Bruins lets it fly from three during the third quarter against the Utah Utes at Pauley Pavilion on March 01, 2020 in Los Angeles, California. Photo: Katharine Lotze/Getty Images

From NCAA to International Success

Chou's journey to professional basketball began with a standout NCAA career at Baylor University and UCLA. As a McDonald's All-American in high school, Chou brought her sharpshooting skills to the NCAA Division I level. Her time at UCLA saw her develop into a versatile guard, culminating in a senior season where she averaged 9.9 points and 4.3 rebounds per game, earning honourable mention for the All-Pac-12 team.

After going undrafted in the 2022 WNBA draft, Chou embarked on an international career that has seen her play in Germany, Australia, and Sweden. Her stint with the Kalamunda Eastern Suns in the 2023 NBL1 West season was particularly impressive, as she averaged 20.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 2.6 steals per game across 16 appearances.

Making Waves in Australia and New Zealand

Chou's performance in the NBL1 West caught the attention of the Perth Redbacks, who signed her for the 2024 season. Her impact was immediate and substantial, highlighted by a remarkable triple-double performance on May 31, where she recorded 20 points, 10 rebounds, and an eye-popping 14 steals in a dominant win over the East Perth Eagles. This stellar play earned Chou spots on both the All-NBL1 West First Team and the NBL1 West All-Defensive Team.

The signing with Southern Hoiho for the 2024 Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa season represented another step forward in Chou's professional career. The New Zealand-based league provides a new challenge and opportunity for Chou to showcase her skills on yet another international stage.

Natalie Chou #23 of the UCLA Bruins drives to the basket against Caroline Ducharme #33 of the Connecticut Huskies during a game in the Never Forget Tribute Classic at Prudential Center on December 11, 2021 in Newark, New Jersey. Photo: Rich Schultz/Getty Images

Chou's commitment to return to the Perth Redbacks for the 2025 NBL1 West season also demonstrates the positive impression she made during her time in Australia. The Redbacks will be looking forward to having her back, given her significant contributions both offensively and defensively last season.

As Chou continues to build her professional career, basketball fans in both New Zealand and Australia have the opportunity to witness her dynamic and exciting play at the NBL1 level.

Joining Chou on the Redbacks next season are Ary Horne, Alaska Rhebok, Grace Tavelli, Mya Dimanlig, Raya Thompson and Shenae Hartree, ensuring Perth will again be a contender in 2025.