Monaghan to continue promising career in Perth with Warwick Senators

Local basketball product Ashlee Monaghan will continue her fledgling career in Perth next year as she steps-up ambitions to eventually play on the American college circuit. Ashlee, 16, has spent the past three seasons as a member of the Goldfields Giants’ women’s NBL1 squad and played 23 games — including 12 this year. Those allegiances, however, have switched to the Giants’ Perth-based rivals, Warwick Senators. The 188cm forward’s mother, Joanne, said the financial hurdles of regularly commuting to Perth for training and games played a key role in the decision to relocate. “This move will allow her to remain in Perth consistently — reducing the burden of travel and time while also alleviating the significant costs associated with frequent trips to Perth,” Mrs Monaghan said. “Ashlee will complete Year 12 at Kingsway Christian College, where she has been awarded both an academic and basketball scholarship. “She will continue on the ATAR pathway, with the added benefit of being able to play basketball at school — something Ashlee has not had the prospect to do before. “Her long-term goal is to secure a college basketball scholarship in the US, where she hopes to study physiotherapy and play for a division one school.” Mrs Monaghan said next-up for her daughter were the under-17 division one State championships from December 13-15. “Building on three seasons as a contracted player with the Goldfields Giants, Ashlee has also been selected for the Senators’ NBL1 and D League Emerging Group,” Mrs Monaghan said. “This opportunity includes pre-season training with the main NBL1 squad. “The Emerging Group typically consists of athletes under 18 and 20 identified as being on the NBL1 pathway — Ashlee is currently training with the squad during the offseason development program. “In addition, she is part of the BWA under-18 Country Women’s squad and has regular weekend training sessions in Perth under coach Fiona Hannan, a former Olympian in basketball and handball. “If selected, Ashlee will compete in Brisbane in April 2025 that would mark her fourth consecutive year as a member of a State team.” Ashlee turns 17 in February and boosted her college ambitions during a visit to the US in July. In the meantime, she will continue to hone her skills in local domestic ranks with Olympians’ under-19 and division one squads. Despite the impending move, Ashlee is expected to return for the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Basketball Association’s 2024-25 finals series.