A major coup for the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic netball side.
Caitlin Bassett of the Diamonds Photo: Photosport Ltd 2015 www.photosport.nz
The franchise have confirmed star Australian shooter and captain Caitlin Bassett would join their roster for the 2021 New Zealand domestic season.
The international centurion - a two-time World Cup winner and Commonwealth Games gold medallist - would be the first Diamonds player to compete in the ANZ Premiership.
Bassett's historic move came with a year left on her contract with the Sydney-based Giants team and, in large part, due to the introduction of the 'super shot' in the Australian domestic league.
The incentive of the longer range two-point shot meant the 1.96 metre-tall shooter, who was renowned for her prowess close to the hoop, had not had consistent court time in this year's Super Netball competition.
She would combine with New Zealand-born Chiara Semple and rising young talent Khiarna Williams in the confirmed Magic shooting end.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to test myself in a new environment against the Kiwi style of play," Bassett said.
"The Magic have put together a strong roster and I'm looking forward to pushing for the 2021 ANZ Premiership title.
"It's going to be fun to have Erena [Mikaere] at the other end of the court having played with her at the Sunshine Coast Lightning."
Magic head coach Amigene Metcalfe was thrilled about the opportunity to work with Bassett.
Metcalfe said the entire team was excited to have the Diamonds star join the franchise.
"She brings a lot of experience and knowledge of the game which will be extremely beneficial.
"Our wider netball community will also have the opportunity to see a superstar in action which will bring huge value to our sport."
Despite falling down the pecking order with her now former Australian club, Bassett was included in the most recent Australian national squad named towards the end of last month.
