The Melbourne Tigers are excited to announce the signing of Little Rock Trojan, Angelique Francis for 2023 NBL1 South season.
Angelique, a forward from Irving Texas, spent four years at the University of Little Rock in Arkansas and has been a teammate of fellow Tiger Nikki Metcalfe. Angelique will bring some real athleticism and defence to the Tigers team this season. She is a tenacious rebounder and a lock down defender who can guard all positions. Angelique was recognised for her leadership and hard work winning the Pat Summitt Most Courageous Player Award for the 2023 NCAA season. She finished her college career with a stat line of 8ppg 6.2rbd at 53% from the field.
Coach Warrick Giddey said, “We are thrilled to add Angelique into our group. When we watched her play for Little Rock, just seeing her athleticism and ability to rebound above the rim got us keen to bring her over. She also has the speed and strength to defend guards and centres, making her really valuable for us. As a coach I am excited to give her the exposure of playing in Australia and experiencing another country and culture.”
Angelique said “This is an amazing opportunity, and I am beyond blessed to be able to take it. Playing for the Melbourne Tigers is a new experience. I am more than excited to develop more aspects of my game and to create bonds with my new family here in Melbourne. The coaching staff as a whole has been more than helpful and has already made me feel very welcome. I am very excited and grateful to be opening my next chapter with the Melbourne Tigers”.
Angelique arrives in the country next week and will join the rest of her team in round two when the Tigers play Waverley at home on Thursday 13th of April at 6:30pm.