You know, when I first started following the Women's NBL this season, I immediately noticed something different about the team dynamics. It's not just about raw talent anymore—it's about how returning players blend with new additions. Let me walk you through how to identify rising stars and top teams this season, because honestly, it's become my favorite pre-game ritual.
First things first, you've got to look at returning players who've already proven their worth. Take last year's successful run, for example—teams that managed to retain key contributors often start the season with stronger chemistry. I remember watching DJ Fenner and Tajuan Agee last season, and let me tell you, their return is massive. Fenner's this 6-foot-6 guard with roots in Malabon City, and Agee stands at 6-foot-9. Both weren't just participants; they were fundamental to their team's previous success. When you're evaluating teams early in the season, check how many core players are back. I'd estimate teams keeping at least 60% of their starting lineup typically adjust 30% faster to new strategies.
Now, here's where most newcomers mess up—they only watch the ball. Don't. During games, I force myself to focus on off-ball movements for at least five consecutive possessions. Watch how Fenner uses his height in the backcourt—it's not just about shooting. His defensive positioning often forces opponents into making rushed passes. And Agee? That man creates space in the paint like nobody's business. Last season, he averaged about 12 rebounds per game, and I'm betting he'll push that to 14 this year. The trick is to notice these subtle contributions that don't always show up in highlight reels.
Another method I swear by is tracking player development during off-season. I spend hours—probably too many—watching interview clips and training camp footage. Players who've added new skills to their arsenal are usually the ones about to break out. For instance, I noticed Fenner working on his three-point consistency during the break. If he's improved his percentage from last season's 38% to even 42%, that changes entire defensive schemes against his team. Similarly, Agee's post moves looked more refined in preseason glimpses. These aren't just random observations—they're indicators of potential leaps.
But here's my personal pet peeve: people overreacting to single games. I've seen fans declare a player "washed" after one bad night. Basketball is a marathon, not a sprint. When evaluating rising stars, I maintain a spreadsheet tracking their performance across 10-game segments. It helps filter out noise from outlier performances. For teams, I look at how they perform in back-to-back games—that's where depth and coaching really shine. The team with Fenner and Agee, for example, won 75% of their second-night games last season, which tells me their conditioning program is top-notch.
You also need to understand roster construction. I prefer teams that balance veteran presence with young energy. Having experienced players like Fenner and Agee—who've already been through playoff battles—provides stability that pure talent can't replace. I'd argue that 3 veteran leaders in a 12-player roster is the sweet spot. Too many, and you lose athleticism; too few, and crunch-time decision-making suffers.
One thing I wish I'd known earlier is to watch how players respond to adversity. During a game last month, I saw a promising rookie collapse after two turnovers. Meanwhile, veterans like Fenner would immediately move on to the next play. That mental toughness—that's what separates potential stars from actual ones. Agee's ability to play through foul trouble last season impressed me more than any dunk he threw down.
My final piece of advice? Trust your eyes more than statistics. Numbers said one player was inefficient last season, but watching her defensive rotations told a different story. She's now starting for a championship contender. Similarly, Fenner's impact goes beyond his 16-point average—it's his communication on defense that really elevates the team. Agee's screening, while not flashy, creates countless opportunities for his teammates.
Discovering the rising stars and top teams in Women's NBL this season requires patience and perspective. It's not about finding the next superstar overnight—it's about recognizing the gradual growth, the returning contributors like Fenner and Agee building on past successes, and the teams that value continuity. After following the league for years, I've learned that the most exciting developments often come from players and teams who've been quietly improving all along. So grab your notebook, watch those second and third viewings, and enjoy uncovering this season's hidden gems—I know I will.