Manchester Mystics have bolstered their ranks with the addition of American-Spanish guard Grace Simmons.

A fashion student at Manchester Metropolitan University, the 19-year-old is with the WBBL squad for the next three seasons.

“I was pleasantly surprised when we were able to secure her services for this new-look Mystics team,” said head coach Jeff Jones.

“The fact that she is with us for three years gives both her and us the time to develop, knowing we have the same end goals for her to get better and for us to become a force in the women’s game.

“You can liken Grace to being a freshman at university and, while in reality she wouldn’t be expected to help right away, she has acclimatised well and is growing in confidence with the senior players.”

Grace added: “I started playing basketball at a young age in Spain.

“In 2013. I went to play basketball in the USA and received a full scholarship to play in high school at Life Centre Academy in New Jersey.

“One of the main reasons I went to play in the USA is because my sister was playing there. I also wanted to play at a higher level and gain experience from playing in a different country.

“The main reason I choose to come and play in England is my education and the opportunity of playing in a different country and to continue growing as a basketball player and as a person.

“My friends found it strange when I said I was going to the UK as opposed to playing at NCAA level in America, but, having been raised in Spain, I appreciate the opportunities that other choices you make can give you.”