The Meneghello Industrial Group City of Joondalup Wolves are excited to announce the signing of NZ Guard Awatea Leach for the 2026 NBL1 West Season.
“It’s super exciting to sign with the Wolves. I’ve already felt so welcomed, and it feels like the right step for me. I can’t wait to get out there and start this new journey.
“I want to bring the same competitive energy I always play with, but also a really positive vibe. I love keeping myself and the team motivated and having fun while we push each other to be better.
“Fans can expect me to give 110% every time I step onto the court, bringing intensity and never giving up. Off the court, I want to be approachable and connect with the fans in the best way I can.”
A 5’8 guard, Awatea made her NBL1 West debut last season for the East Perth Eagles, displaying her elite shooting ability throughout the season, averaging 14.7 points per game. Alongside her prolific scoring ability, she showed off her competitive edge by averaging 5.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists across her 21 appearances.
Before joining the NBL1 West, Awatea played for the Tokomanawa Queens, a professional Women’s basketball club out of New Zealand, as well as the Albury Wodonga Bandits during the 2024 NBL1 North season. During her time with the Bandits, she averaged 9.9 points and 3.6 rebounds across her 22 games.
NBL1 Women’s Head Coach Mitch Langford spoke on the importance of signing Awatea for the upcoming season.
“We are excited to welcome Awa to the Wolfpack, adding a proven scorer, high-level shooter, infectious energy, and leadership to our roster. Awa has consistently shown her ability to score at all three levels, with a reliable perimeter shot and the confidence to make big plays when it matters.
“Her offensive skill set, basketball IQ, and relentless enthusiasm, combined with her experience at NBL1 and representative level, give our group an added scoring dimension and a spark that lifts those around her.”
Awa is our second Women’s player signing ahead of the 2026 NBL1 West Season. To secure your seats and watch Awa play during the 2026 NBL1 West Season, you can purchase your membership here.
To follow all the upcoming NBL1 West and Wolves action, head to the Wolfpack’s Facebook and Instagram pages.