The return of last season’s injury hit Newcastle Eagles forward Natalie Cernohorska shows the faith that both head coach Chloe Gaynor and the player herself have that she can make an impact in her second season in Super League Basketball (SLB).

Cernohorska only managed one outing last campaign before succumbing to a season ending injury. That was against Essex Rebels where she showcased her ability netting 9 points adding 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 24 minutes of action.

Cernohorska is determined to show that was an indication of her ability to play at this level and is delighted that the Eagles have re-signed her for a second season after putting pen to paper.

“I am beyond grateful to be back for year two with the Eagles,” said Cernohorska.

“Last season was unfortunately cut short for me, but I’m ready to come back stronger than ever.

“I can’t wait to step back on the court in front of the best crowd in the league!”

The Czech Republic international who came through the BK Pliska Studanka Pardubice system before arriving on Tyneside to combine education studies with basketball is a player Gaynor believes in.

“Nat is returning to us on the back of her recovery from an ACL tear last season,” said Gaynor.

“Whilst Nat only played in one game for us last year, we were able to see the positive impact that she had on the game on both ends of the floor and we look forward to working with her as she returns to the court.

“Nat has been working incredibly hard on her return to play and we have no doubt the fans will be eager to see her back in an Eagles jersey on the court when the time comes.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming her back to the roster for the 2026/27 season.”

The Eagles women’s SLB season tips0-off in October with the first home game on Sunday 11th against Nottingham Wildcats available to book now on the box office.