With both SBL teams playing finals in 2015, the men after a fourth place finish and the women after scraping through in eighth, the club is hoping the signing of some big-name imports will help propel both teams further up the ladder this year.
University of Buffalo’s three point sharpshooter Cherridy Thornton and Ohio State Buckeye Ashley Adams, who is second in the university’s all-time blocked shot count with 290, will both suit up for the women’s team, who also have a new coach in John Triscari after Deanna Smith stepped down.
The men will retain the services of Clark Atlanta University’s Najee Lane after his standout 2015 season, while also signing Seattle Mountaineer’s Marcus Goode as the second import.
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READ NOWMen’s coach Matt Parsons said the team was looking to secure at least a top four finish, but were pushing for top two.
“We have put together a really good squad on paper and are very happy with the work done in the offseason to ensure we added some very good characters and players into our program for 2016,” he said.
“One of our biggest weaknesses last season was our ability to get a consistent contribution from our depth players, also ensuring that we stick to our defensive principles in the big games and ensuring we execute when it matters the most.
“This season is shaping to be one of many highlights, we need the Cockburn community to help us represent our community and there is no better way than to support grassroots sport.”
The Cockburn Cougars kick off their 2016 campaign away against the Perth Redbacks on Saturday, March 19.