BRILLIANT guard Lauren Mansfield yesterday announced her commitment to the Launceston Tornadoes for a third year.
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The 24-year-old South Australian has twice won the Tornadoes’ most valuable player award and said she was looking forward to another year in Launceston.
‘‘I was in Launceston about a month ago and met new coach Reece Potter and was excited by his plans for the team,’’ she said.
Potter, from New South Wales, will replace Peta Sinclair as head coach of the Tornadoes in 2015 and Mansfield is predicting the team will continue to improve on its 6-18 record this season.
‘‘We’re improving and with the combination of imports and the developing local players I’m sure we will win more games,’’ she said.
Mansfield also hopes another fine season with the Tornadoes will help her return to the strong WNBL competition after she missed a spot this year.
She had previously played with the Adelaide Lightning but missed joining the roster in 2014-15.
‘‘The SEABL is a great league to play in, there is plenty of competition among the girls and I hope I can gain the attention of a WNBL club.’’
Securing Mansfield’s signature again was a high priority for the Tornadoes according to Potter.
‘‘Lauren has been a dominant SEABL player and contributor for the Tornadoes,’’ he said.
‘‘She will provide us with great leadership and organisation in the point guard role and will give us scoring punch and defensive intensity.
‘‘With her tireless dedication and selflessness Lauren is a fantastic role model on and off the court for young basketballers in Northern Tasmania.’’
He said Mansfield had been pursued by some rival clubs and despite attractive offers had chosen to return to the Tornadoes.
The Tornadoes expect to announce further signings before Christmas.
‘‘I’m hoping to maintain the core playing group from last year and add some depth with new local talent,’’ he said.
Mansfield expects to settle in Launceston in February or March.