ONE OF Australia’s premier female basketballers is making a return to the world stage, with Cayla George securing another contract in the WNBA.

George has been a stalwart of the WNBL for years, and has thoroughly earned a contract with the Las Vegas Aces, which was announced earlier this week.

It has been five years since the veteran’s last appearance in the United States-based competition, which has more coverage than any other female basketball competition in the world. However, her strong form in the WNBL has seen international scouts take notice, and she will be joining one of the biggest teams in the world.

The Aces are fresh off the 2022 WNBA championship, and will likely look to contend again in the immediate future after signing a player of George’s calibre.

The four-time WNBL champion is showing age is no barrier, with the 33-year-old averaging more minutes than any other player in the league this season at 37.3 per game. She is also enjoying a stellar season from an individual performance, posting numbers of 18.6 points and 11.9 rebounds per game.

She previously suited up for the Phoenix Mercury in 2015 and 2017, and the Dallas Wings in 2018, with this marking her fourth spell in the WNBA. She has also played in the WNBL for 15 seasons, and has established herself as one of the world’s best frontcourt players.

She will join league MVP Candace Parker on the Aces, with the duo likely to make a formidable partnership in the paint, which will be the key to Las Vegas’ offence for much of the season.

Speaking in a press release after the announcement, George expressed her excitement to be joining the reigning champions.

“I am really excited to join the Aces organisation, and to be back playing in the WNBA,” George said.

“To be able to play alongside some of the best players in the world, and to be coached by Becky [Hammon] is something I am really looking forward to.”

Aces General Manager Natalie Williams echoed these sentiments, with the team overjoyed to acquire George’s signature.

“Cayla George is one of the best centres in the world,” Williams said.

“Her three-point shooting, high-IQ passing and rebounding skills are elite.

“We’re so excited to add her to our talented front court, and watch her stretch the floor on offence and battle the other great centres in the league on defence.

“Cayla is an amazing woman, whom I think the city of Las Vegas is going to love.”