UC Caps add Canberra pair – rising junior Zara Russell and former Cap Abby Solway – to WNBL26 roster

The University of Canberra Capitals are excited to announce the signing of one of Australia’s rising stars, Canberra’s Zara Russell and the return of former Capital, Abby Solway to its WNBL26 roster. 

Russell is currently part of Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence program, and recently played a key role in helping the Australian Gems secure the silver medal in the FIBA Under 19 Women’s World Cup.  

“As a kid I used to go to games with my dad and it’s always been a dream of mine to be part of the team,” said Russell. 

“It’s one of my biggest achievements so far and I’m excited to play with so many players I looked up to and just soak up as much as I can to help me be a better player.”  

Russell will join the team on an amateur development player contract, allowing her to maintain her eligibility to play in the US NCAA in the coming years.  

In this year’s NBL1 East season, Russell captained CoE to a spot in the grand final while averaging 17.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game.  

The Capitals are also welcoming back Canberra National mainstay and ex-Capital Abby Solway to the team as a development player and community coach for the upcoming season.  

Solway had another standout NBL1 East season as the starting point guard for the Nationals, helping the squad to a second straight finals appearance averaging 9.8 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists per game.  

“It’s an incredible opportunity to be part of something special again. It’s looking like a strong roster and there’s a lot of people I can learn from. Having Goz and Nat Hurst back was a big factor in my decision,” said Solway. 

“I’m also thrilled to be a community coach. As a kid that grew up in Canberra and went through the pathways, I want to give back, engage with the community and help guide the next generation of kids on their journeys.” 

Capitals Head Coach Paul Goriss welcomes the addition of two talented Canberra locals to the squad, anticipating that they will fit perfectly into the culture that the team is building. 

“Zara is a great talent whose improvement at the CoE will help her tremendously in transitioning into the WNBL. Abby has been around the program and knows the hard work and commitment it takes to be a WNBL player and she is ready to compete and bring her energy and grit to the team,” he said.  

Catch Abby and Zara this season live at the AIS Arena - secure your UC Capitals membership today!