The Newcastle Falcons NBL1 Women have secured a major addition for the remainder of the season, with the signing of WNBA draftee Saffron Shiels.
A proud Newcastle product, Shiels returns home following a rapid rise through the ranks. Beginning her basketball journey with the Lakers club, she progressed through Newcastle Basketball’s local pathway, representing the Newcastle Hunters before earning her place at Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence.
Shiels has established herself at the highest domestic level with the Townsville Fire in the Women’s National Basketball League, while also building an impressive international résumé in Australian colours.
Her junior representative career has been highlighted by multiple gold medal performances, including back-to-back championships at the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup in India and the FIBA U18 Women’s Asia Cup in China, gold at the FIBA U17 Oceania Championship in Papua New Guinea, and gold at the FIBA U16 Women’s Asian Championship in Jordan.
Shiels made her senior debut for the Australia women’s national basketball team during the team’s tour to China in 2024, further cementing her standing as one of Australia’s emerging stars.
Most recently, Shiels reached another career milestone when she was selected with the 26th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Toronto Tempo, continuing her rise onto the global stage.
Known for her versatility, composure and competitiveness, Shiels is expected to make an immediate impact for the Falcons. Beyond her on-court contribution, her journey through the Newcastle pathway positions her as a strong role model for the next generation of athletes across the region.
Her signing reinforces the Falcons’ commitment to developing and retaining local talent while continuing to build a squad capable of competing at a high level.
Head Coach Bernadette Schmidt said the signing was a significant moment for both the club and the local basketball community.
“This is an incredibly exciting announcement for the Newcastle Falcons.
Saffron, a local hero, returns home to represent Newcastle for the first time in the NBL1 East. As a team, we’re thrilled to support her as she continues her journey back to the court following an extended period of rehabilitation.
This is a special opportunity for our local community to see Saff play in her hometown as she continues to inspire the next generation of female athletes.
Her achievements speak for themselves, but what truly stands out is the person she is. Saffron is a remarkable young woman who brings just as much impact off the court as she does on it. Welcome home, Saff”.
Shiels will link in with the Falcons for the remainder of the season, adding further excitement and quality to an already strong lineup.