Great Britain point guard Georgia Jones has signed for Manchester Mystics.
It’s a massive boost for the WBBL franchise, which has recently completed a move to National Basketball Performance Centre in Belle Vue.
Jones, who played for Leicester Riders last season, returns to the club where she began her career and will link up with her father, Jeff, who is head coach.
“It feels great to be back in my home town playing for Manchester again,” said the 26-year-old Jones, who made her debut for the Mystics senior team aged just 14.
“It is where basketball all started for me, so it’s nice to have finally made it back here.
“I’m really excited for the season and seeing what the team can do! “We have a really good group of players all looking to make an impact and to be competitive this year, which will be great for basketball in Manchester.
“A few people have already asked what it is like to be coached by my dad. For me, it’s not unusual because coached me my entire life and knows me as a player better than anyone else.
“I have a lot of faith in him and his ability to get the best out of me, so I’m looking forward to seeing what this season will bring under his leadership.”
Coach Jones says it will be “fun” to have his daughter in the Mystics squad.
“I think every player wants to play for their hometown team and I am looking forward to working to continue her development and pushing her to get better,” he added.
“I hope she will be a big part of bringing about a culture change and the perception of women’s basketball in Manchester. The experiences she will bring to the team will invaluable to the younger players.”