Leilani Mitchell came to Canberra for the chance to win a WNBL title, but the way the club embraces female athletes and their children could be the reason she stays.
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Star Capitals recruit and new mum Mitchell spoke glowingly about the league's inaugural parental and pregnancy care policy, which was announced on Wednesday.
It was a massive moment for all WNBL players and in particular the Capitals, who started a major conversation about caring for playing mothers when Abby Bishop opened up about her story four years ago.
Mitchell's partner Mikaela gave birth to their first child, Kash, in July and they have been juggling new mum challenges with moving to a new city and joining a new team.
But the Capitals, who have a reputation as the family club, have helped make the transition smoother and coach Paul Goriss has told Mitchell to make Kash her priority.
"My conversations with Gorrie, even on the first day, he let me he supported me being a mum," Mitchell said.
"He's always asking how Kash is going and says if there are times where I need to bring him to training, that will always be fine. The Capitals have been really supportive and let me know they're here to help me in any way.
"It's great that women can continue to pursue their dreams and work in a career of their choice, and not have to give that up to start a family.
"I still have the drive to win, to get better and love playing the game. But having Kash, it makes the losses or those hard days easier. He doesn't care what happens in the game, he just has a big smile and is excited to see me. It puts things in perspective and snaps you out of a bad mood really quickly."
The new policy has provisions to put contracts on hold for 12 months, or for players to get a payout of up to three months if they are pregnant.
The clubs will make the payments, which also includes additional financial support for qualified carers or support for mothers with children up to four years old for away trips.
The policy has been in place since the start of the WNBL season and players association chief executive Jacob Holmes said: "The policy represents a crucial step forward in ensuring improved player conditions within the WNBL and gives our players a chance to succeed at the highest level. This is a basic right for our players and vital to the professionalism of the league."
The number of basketball-playing mums has grown in the league this year, and the Capitals have always embraced mothers and children with open arms.
Tracey Peacock's son Bowyn grew up at Capitals training, Michelle Cosier became a mum in Canberra, Bishop took custody of daughter Zala, former coach Carrie Graf welcomed twins and Nat Hurst juggled playing and the arrival of new son last year.
Bishop's situation highlighted the lack of a parental or childcare policy at Basketball Australia and caused widespread outcry for Australia's best basketballers.
Bishop, a former Capitals skipper, withdrew from a world championships because Basketball Australia refused to pay for a carer, and then re-signed with Canberra because the club was willing to help her adjust to life as a mum.
Mitchell and Mikaela are now a part of the Capitals' culture and the point guard said implementing a parental policy would help female athletes thrive.
"Kash is great, he's so much fun and is starting to get so much personality," Mitchell beamed.
"The time is flying by. It has been tiring, we're adjusting to his sleep. I'll take him during the day and Mikaela lets me get some rest at night to be refreshed and ready for training."
WNBL ROUND FOUR
Sunday: Canberra Capitals v Sydney Flames at National Convention Centre, 2pm. Tickets available at the door.
