Micaela Cocks returns for title defence

The JCU Townsville Fire have re-signed three-time WNBL championship winner Micaela Cocks for the 2018/19 season.

Fresh off winning her third Players’ Player Award – and Denis Russell Commitment to Excellence – the 182-game veteran agreed to a fresh deal which will extend her stay in North Queensland into an eighth season.

With Rachael McCully (228) the only 200-game player in Fire history, Cocks is poised to join her in the exclusive club later this year.

Prior to then, however, the 32-year-old will attempt to lead New Zealand to glory at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games after winning silver in Melbourne in 2006.

“It’s great to be able to stay in Townsville which has become my home away from home,” Cocks said.

“It’s a fantastic club – with good people involved – and I love the support the Townsville community shows the Fire.

“Hopefully we can continue to build the dynasty we have created here in North Queensland.”

Having joined the Fire in 2011/12, Cocks is one of two players to have played in all five of the Fire’s Grand Final appearances including capturing the Rachael Sporn Medal in 2015/16.

The high-octane guard sits in the top-five for points and assists for the Fire amongst a raft of other categories.

“It’s wonderful to have Mic back for an eighth season,” Fire General Manager Richard Goodbody said.

“She’s played an integral role in our success and continues to provide the team with leadership and versatility.

“We look forward to her assisting in our title defence.”

Cocks joins six-time WNBL MVP Suzy Batkovic and Opals forward Darcee Garbin under contract for the Fire, with the club poised to announce their first new signing later this week.