Sydney Hunter loving life at the Giants

Manchester Giants Women guard Sydney Hunter says it has been an easy transition joining the club as she continues to settle into new surroundings.

Hunter arrived at the Giants Women at the end of October after spending a season playing in the Australia NBL with Maitland Mustangs, where she averaged 14.3 points and 10.8 rebounds per game.

She previously went to San Diego State University where she played alongside her new Giants team-mate, Myah Pace, and also enjoyed a season professionally in Turkey with Karsiyaka.

The Giants Women won each of the opening two games which Hunter featured in, before falling to a narrow 70-64 defeat on the road at Durham Palatinates last time out.

Discussing the move to Manchester, she said: I've comfortably settled in, especially with this being my third season overseas.

"Gaining familiarity has made a significant difference. Having Myah, my former college team-mate, alongside me has eased the transition, and the warm welcome from the girls has further contributed to a positive experience.

"We have a really good group of women here, and overall, my initial weeks here have been good."

During her time playing in Turkey, Hunter posted some impressive numbers, including six double-doubles in nine games.

She has carried that form into the Women's British Basketball League, posting double-double tallies in each of her opening three outings for the Giants Women.

While admitting her enjoyment at testing herself in the British game, Hunter has urged the squad to pick themselves up quickly following defeat in Durham.

Discussing her early-season form, she said: "Honestly, it all boils down to putting in the effort. My team-mates excel at finding me for open shots, and my passion for rebounding comes naturally.

"The challenge of the WBBL has been immensely enjoyable - it's a highly competitive league. Every team poses a formidable challenge, making it clear that you can't assume a win. You have to earn it every night.

"It was a tough and unusual loss in Durham. Starting off slow put us in a position where we had to play catch-up throughout the entire game, and unfortunately we couldn't overcome it."

The Giants Women return to action on home court this Saturday, facing Oaklands Wolves at Platt Lane Sports Complex (2pm tip-off).

Marg Jones' squad have a 2-3 record this season heading into that match - but with both victories to date coming on home soil, Hunter has emphasised the importance of coming up with a quick response against Oakland.

"The positive side is that our team is filled with experienced players, and we're collectively aware of our shortcomings in that game," she added.

"We're committed to addressing those issues, and we're all determined to improve our performance for the upcoming game against Oaklands, which all starts in practice this week as we reset.

"Home court advantage is crucial, especially considering the challenges of winning on the road with the extended travel. The support and fun atmosphere at our games significantly boosts our confidence, so we will be using that to our advantage.

"I'm confident about our performance on Saturday and excited to hit the court with my team-mates."