Re-signed Canberra Capitals guard Abby Cubillo says her new deal is proof she's graduated from being a development player.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The Capitals will announce Cubillo's new deal on Thursday morning after making her WNBL debut in Canberra's championship-winning run last season.
She is the next piece of the puzzle in the Capitals bid to win back to back titles and will learn off French recruit Olivia Epoupa when the season begins in October.
Cubillo, 20, has been playing for the Canberra Nationals in the Waratah League in the WNBL off-season and says she's ready to take the next step in her career.
"I'm super excited, I feel as though I've graduated from being a development player to now being part of the squad," Cubillo said.
"I'm keen to back into a professional environment ahead of the season.
"Because I had such a top time last year it was always my priority to stay in Canberra. I was just waiting to see if any other opportunities arose but I definitely wanted to stick around and play for Canberra again."
The Capitals will start their season with a grand final re-match against the Adelaide Lightning at the AIS Arena on October 13.
Coach Paul Goriss has spent the off-season trying to assemble a roster capable of winning another championship, adding Epoupa to the squad.
The speedy French guard will team up with Maddison Rocci, Kristy Wallace and Cubillo as the point guards, while Marianna Tolo and Kelsey Griffin will lead the side again.
"Cubillo brings quickness and the ability to the push the ball in transition but it's what she is capable of at the defensive ends which excites us," Goriss said.
"She is a tenacious ball defender and can pick up the ball in the full court. She fits well with the chemistry of our team and is a great teammate."
Cubillo used the Waratah League to hone her skills and learn from an experienced group.
"It was a league where you test some things that were you're working on in practices, which was beneficial for me," Cubillo said.
"I was surrounded by a great bunch of girls, plus there were some local juniors who I got to help with their game.
"I also got to play with Keely Froling, Kate Gaze, and Hannah Kaser, so I got the taste of being one of the experienced ones helping the younger ones while still being one of the younger girls being helped by the experienced ones."
Cubillo is juggling a university degree with a part-time job and her basketball career as she attempts to earn more game time.
"I guess it's a little bit scary but I think it's super exciting," Cubillo said.
"You know we get to come up against the best competition every week and with the girls we have especially with the likes of Kelsey [Griffin] and [Marianna] Tolo and [Kristy Wallace] will definitely lead the way."
Cubillo is the ninth player to sign a Capitals contract this season with space for one more recruit.
WNBL ROUND ONE
October 13: Canberra Capitals v Adelaide Lightning at AIS Arena, 5pm.
