National Champion re-signs for 2024

Star on the rise Cassidy McLean re-signs as the first player of the National Championship team to return for 2024. 

After being a key part in Bendigo’s undefeated run in the NBL1 South, claiming the conference title over Waverley. They then went to Western Australia and swept the competition, winning the National Title against the Norths Bears. 

For the season she averaged 15 points per game, 4.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists for the Braves, a career-high average in her near 70-game NBL1 career. 

Playing for Bendigo since the 2019 season, the 24-year-old has become a staple within the club and community. NBL1 South Coach of the Year Mark Alabakov said that her impact on and off the floor is inseparable from their success. 

"Cass is a loyal and dedicated high performer, and critical on and off-court contributor in our program from 2020 onwards,” he said. 

“Culminating in her reaching career-best form to help us become NBL1 South and NBL1 National Champions.

"I’ve said for years that Cass is one of the best-kept secrets in Australian Basketball - she’s a tall guard who can organise, score, and rebound, and is one of the best perimeter defenders I’ve seen in 20 years in the sport.” 

Alabakov praised McLean for her continued work with the community of Bendigo. 

"Off the court, she’s very community driven and has contributed for years to the greater Bendigo community in programs, visits to schools and businesses and player appearances,” he said.

“[She’s] the first to put her hand up to add to the amazing connection the Braves have with our region - she’s a big reason why we’re held in such high esteem."

Stay up-to-date with all the latest NBL1 signings via the 2024 Roster Tracker here.