Australian netball captain Catlin Bassett is considering a switch across the Tasman for next year's ANZ Premiership.
Netball NZ high performance head Keir Hansen has confirmed to Newshub that the towering shooter is discussing the move with a New Zealand franchise, believed to be Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic, which have left a shooting spot open on their recently named 2021 roster.
Bringing in a player of Bassett’s calibre could draw larger crowds, but wouldn't be a cheap exercise, with Bassett likely demanding a high salary.
"That's obviously something the team potentially talking to her will have to weigh up in their decision," Hansen told Newshub, discussing the financial challenge of signing Bassett.
At 1.96m, Bassett has played 100 games for the Diamonds, including 24 as captain, but the introduction of the two-point 'super shot' in the Australian domestic competition this season has seen her become redundant for her Giants club.
Bassett has made her money as one of the world's best shooters from close range, rather than further away.
Signing a legend like Bassett could help develop and nurture young Kiwi shooters, but would also take away a coveted roster spot that could go to a young Kiwi looking to break through.
"We want as many places as possible for Kiwis to develop," says Hansen. "But we leave the import spot open for a high-profile international that could add to the competition in a way, such as developing local talent."
