Five players to watch in 2016

Laura Langman, NSW Swifts

After switching from the Mystics to the Swifts, the 29-year-old will become the first high-profile Kiwi to play for an Australian franchise. Known for her incredible engine and core strength, Langman has settled in so well she has been named vice-captain.

Megan Craig, Northern Mystics

At 203cm, new Northern Mystics shooter will be hard to miss. The 23-year-old Tall Ferns basketballer, who will be the competition’s tallest player, will juggle international basketball and trans-Tasman netball commitments. With a span of 2.1m, she’s a potential game-changer at either end, but pre-season reports suggest her hands need work.

Courtney Bruce, West Coast Fever

A prodigious talent who starred at youth level, the 22-year-old could make 2016 her breakthrough year. The aggressive 189cm defender has been at the Perth-based club since 2013, but managed just 16 games. If she can step up, she may be the last piece in the Fever's premiership puzzle.

Gabi Simpson, Queensland Firebirds

The tenacious 176cm midcourter, 23, will be looking to build on a stellar 2015. After being in the mix for years, Simpson finally made her debut for the Diamonds in October and will be instrumental in her side’s bid to become the first ANZ side to go back-to-back.

Jo Weston, Melbourne Vixens

With international exposure under her belt, the athletic 22-year-old is ready to fill the shoes of retired Bianca Chatfield in the Vixens’ defensive line-up. Missing shooter Tegan Philip due to a season-ending knee injury, the Vixens will rely on Weston’s trademark ability to read play and create intercepts to turn games.