The Brydens Sydney Uni Flames are excited to announce the signing of former University of Texas college star Ashley Gayle.
The 23 year old American was thrilled to sign for the Flames, saying “I am looking forward to playing with my new teammates and competing towards a successful season with the Flames.”
“I am very excited about moving to Sydney next month. I’ve never been to Australia before but I’ve heard many great things about the country. I’m also looking for to playing in the WNBL. The league has a reputation for being highly competitive and having elite athletes.”
Gayle, who spent four years playing for the University of Texas before graduating in 2012, has been signed by the Flames for the 2013/14 WNBL season after an outstanding season in the Bulgarian Women’s National Basketball League.
Playing for Bulgarian outfit Neftochimic Lukoil, the 6’4 (195cm) centre helped her club finish second in the league. In the process Gayle was named as the best rebounder in the Bulgarian Cup and the Bulgarian League; achieved 23 double-doubles out of 30 games; and averaged 14.4 points, 12.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocks during the playoffs.
“As a rookie, my experience in Bulgaria was great,” explained Gayle.
“I learned about the differences between playing at a college level versus a professional level and I had a chance to play against some talented players while I was there. My team worked really hard and we had a successful season.”
Brydens Sydney Uni Flames Head Coach, Karen Dalton was pleased with the club’s latest signing, saying “There’s no doubt that we were lacking some size last year, but Ashley will bring much needed size to the group.”
“Ashley is a quality player who will add both rebounding and defence to the group. I am looking forward to working with her.”
Gayle was equally enthusiastic about what she would be looking to bring to the Flames line-up, saying “I’d like to help the Flames have a very successful season. I want to be a force in the post, a strong defensive player and a top rebounder.”
The Brydens Sydney Uni Flames will play their first 2013/14 WNBL home game against the Dandenong Rangers at Brydens Stadium (part of the Sydney Uni Sports & Aquatic Centre) on Friday October 11 at 7.30pm.
