Texan import for Rangers

By Paul Pickering
TOWERING Texan Ashley Lindsey is Dandenong’s new WNBL import.
The 193cm forward/centre signed with the Rangers last week, following an impressive college career at the University of Texas.
Lindsey, 22, averaged 7.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and a team-leading 2.3 blocks per game in her senior year as the Longhorns progressed to their second consecutive NCAA Tournament in March.
Dandenong coach Dale Waters believes the Austin native will become a force in his revamped frontline in 2009-10.
“Ashley brings tremendous athleticism to our group,” Waters said. “She’s the type of athlete that will fit into our system very nicely. The ability to play at both ends of the floor was a key criterion when we were sourcing a legitimate post player for this season.”
Lindsey won’t be expected to produce the sort of numbers that her predecessor, Jenni Benningfield, did last season, but her defensive prowess should help offset the loss of veteran Emily McInerny.
Waters was hoping that teenage Opal Liz Cambage – a former Dandenong junior – would fill the starting pivot spot on her return from the AIS, but she signed with Bulleen last month.
Fellow AIS graduate Steph Cumming has returned, and with the inclusion of emerging Kiwi guard Toni Edmondson, the Rangers look to have a formidable backcourt rotation. Dandenong is also believed to be in the market for another import.
Lindsey will arrive in Melbourne in late August ahead of the Rangers’ season-opener on 2 October.