Giants teenager embracing steep learning curve as US trip looms

Goldfields Giants youngster Ashlee Monaghan is returning for Sunday’s women’s NBL1 road clash with the Perth Redbacks keen to put into place a wealth of lessons learned at this month’s national under-18 championships in Brisbane.

At just 16 years old, Monaghan understands that her development at NBL1 level is a work in progress.

Monaghan, who lined up for WA Country at the nationals alongside Giants’ teammate 16-year-old Chloe Zorzi, said elite standards set by the best players in Brisbane would hold them in good stead.

“I played in all of the games and at the start it was definitely an adjustment as I tried to find my feet against a lot of very good players, including some who had played for Australia,” she said.

“It was a much higher standard.

“But towards the end of the week I’d found my way and definitely improved as the series moved along.

“In the NBL1, I’m going up against women who are much older, smarter and have great skills.

“Both the NBL1 and nationals are very physical, but the nationals actually has a faster pace, when you’re constantly up and down the court.

“Playing regularly at the nationals gave me great insight into the physicality needed to move up in the ranks.”

Monaghan said a high percentage of players in Brisbane were desperate to gain a competitive edge in pursuit of US college opportunities.

“It was all about proving to the next person and everyone watching that you’re the best in that particular position,” she said.

It resonated with Monaghan, who travels to the US in July as part of her own American college aspirations.

Monaghan said regularly attending practice and competitions out of the region, despite the travel demands, was worth the effort.

“This is my third year for the Giants in the NBL1 and early on I’d get on the court and be a bit timid,” she said.

“But playing my first NBL1 game (of the season) a few weeks back, I definitely went out there with far more confidence.”

Sunday’s clash between the Giants and Redbacks is at the Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre at 11am.