Newcastle Eagles have uncovered another gem in Andrea Daley, and she is repaying their faith in scintillating fashion.

There were many question marks surrounding the Newcastle Eagles at the start of the 2025-26 campaign. Squad turnover saw Jada Guinn and Lauren Saiki find new ventures overseas, while Tierra Hodges headed north to the Caledonia Gladiators.

Second-year head coach Chloe Gaynor, along with Newcastle’s front office, was handed the task of reshaping a roster that had been drained of its stardust – after a 3-0 start to the regular season, it appears that they succeeded.

Despite being dominated in all areas of the game by the Sheffield Hatters during their opening Betty Codona trophy fixture to commence the year, the Eagles’ redemption has been remarkable, and Andrea Daley has played a pivotal role.

Andrea Daley has become Newcastle’s talisman

To replace a player with the quality and presence that Hodges possessed, the Eagles would need someone who could chalk up substantial points, while showcasing an intimidating figure in the battle of the boards – step up Andrea Daley.

During her four years as an Eagle in Boston, Daley established herself as an impressive scorer and rebounder – averaging 8.6 points and 5.9 rebounds throughout her senior year.

However, the trajectory of her ability could not have been predicted when she put pen to paper on a deal that would see her represent Newcastle for the 2025-26 season.

The American forward can now be described as ‘inevitable’ after her November antics that resulted in her being awarded the Molten Basketball Player of the Month award.

Throughout November, Daley’s numbers were remarkable. The rookie registered 24.3 points, five assists, and 14 rebounds per game.

In addition to the statistics, the Newcastle fan favourite has exhibited a versatility on the floor that will be essential as the Eagles attempt to challenge at the summit of the Super League Basketball Women standings for a second consecutive season.

After starting the regular season with three wins in as many games, the Newcastle Eagles are gaining confidence and momentum that should inevitably end in a deep postseason run – if Andrea Daley can continue to turn in MVP-calibre performances.