'I'm ready': WNBA import to fire Townsville

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basketball.com.au

'I'm ready': WNBA import to fire Townsville

Nia Coffey #12 of the Atlanta Dream shoots the ball as Betnijah Laney-Hamilton #44 and Courtney Vandersloot #22 of the New York Liberty defend during the second half in Game Two of Round One of the WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center on September 24, 2024 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Liberty won 91-82. Picture: Sarah Stier/Getty Images

29-year-old forward important for run to WNBL finals

WNBA star Nia Coffey is back — a "Dream" signing for the WNBL's third-placed Townsville Fire.

Coffey, 29, is a 6'1" forward for the Atlanta Dream, selected fifth overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft.

"I’m excited to return to Australia and compete in this incredible league," said Coffey.

"Joining the Townsville Fire and playing under coach Shannon is an amazing opportunity. I’m looking forward to getting started."

Coffey, who previously played in the WNBL for the Adelaide Lightning six seasons ago, has played 2017 games in the WNBA, averaging five points, four rebounds, and just under an assist per game.

"Being part of the Townsville Fire organisation is something I’m really excited about," Coffey added.

"I know this team has a strong history, and I’m looking forward to contributing to that success.

It’s a great opportunity, and I’m ready to get on the court."

Colleen Planeta of Adelaide Lightning (right) and Nia Coffey of Adelaide Lightning warm up before game three of the WNBL Grand Final series between Canberra Capitals and the Adelaide Lightning at AIS Arena on February 16, 2019 in Canberra. Photo: Tracey Nearmy/Getty Images

Coffey will make her debut on Saturday, January 11, 2025 (Game Centre) at the Fire Pit.

"Nia is a great player who can run the floor, defend multiple positions, and provide another scoring option in our offence," said Fire head coach Shannon Seebohm.

"She will help us qualify for the finals and compete for another championship."

Townsville general manager Sam Pascoe added, "Nia’s WNBA experience and leadership qualities are a huge asset.

"She brings versatility and energy, and we’re confident she’ll make an immediate impact on and off the court."

Coffey, who has been with the Atlanta Dream since 2020, after playing for the San Antonio Stars / Las Vegas Aces, the Phoenix Mercury and Los Angeles Sparks.

She played her NCAA career at Northwestern where she was a four-time First-team All-Big Ten (2014–2017) and Big Ten All-Freshman Team (2014)