The WNBL25 season was one to remember for Sydney Flames rising star Shaneice Swain.
In year four in the WNBL, Swain's statistics across the board jumped to career-high numbers in points (17.1 per game - the third-highest mark in the league), assists (3.8 - eighth in the WNBL) and three-pointers made (3.1 - second in the WNBL) - seeing her claim the Flames' MVP at Hoops Capital's recent awards night.
Not only that, it helped Flame #224 Swain pen a rookie-scale contract with the WNBA franchise, the Los Angeles Sparks.
"By losing both Loz [Lauren Nicholson] and Didi [Richards] before the season started, I knew there was a big opportunity for me this season," Swain said.
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"I'm happy with the way I was able to make the most of the chances on the court, especially after missing most of last season with injury.
"It was great to show consistently what I can do in this league while also helping the team be successful and make finals for the first time in seven years."
Swain admits none of these would have been possible if not for the amazing work of Flames coach Guy Molloy, his coaching staff and the guard's fellow Sydney teammates.
"The confidence Guy and all my teammates put in me was amazing and very reassuring," the Cairns product said.
"Knowing they had my back helped me play my natural game and grow into a bigger role on the team.
"Not to mention, it's a great environment for me and all my teammates to continually take our games to the next level."
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Swain will head to the United States next month to prepare for her rookie season in the WNBA, with the Sparks' season-opener on May 17 against the Golden State Valkyries.
"I'm very excited to finally get the chance to go over to the US with the Sparks, after missing out last year due to injury and not being quite ready the season before that," the guard said.
"I know it's going to be a very different style of play, largely due to the physicality but I'm ready to take on that challenge.
"I'm also excited to learn from new coaches and new teammates, which will further strengthen my game.
"This has been a goal of mine for some time and I'm excited it's finally all coming together."
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