In what is largely a new-look roster for Newcastle Eagles, head coach Chloe Gaynor is delighted to return a familiar face to the Tyneside club as Zoe Willis flies back in for her fourth season in black and white.

Willis has become an integral part of the Eagles franchise both as a player on court and an Academy coach off it. It’s this basketball knowledge and ability to play at the SLB level that made her return a no-brainer for coach Gaynor.

“Zoe is coming off of arguably her best season in an Eagles jersey”, said Gaynor.

“Her willingness to play outside of her position, and in doing so finding and carving out an important role for herself in this team is something that was hugely valuable to us last season and we wanted to ensure that Zoe was with us for this season.

“Off court, Zoe is massively important to the growth of the programme and her continued investment in growing the game is continuing to push everything forward both within the club and Eagles Community Foundation.”

Last season the 5’8” guard took her place in the starting five at times and as Gaynor played her across a number of positions, averaging 3.5 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.

The former Barking Abbey graduate and GB Under-20 international, who graduated from NCAA Division 2 American International College in 2022, enters season number four at the Vertu Arena, which has become a home from home for the player originally from Essex.

“I have known Chloe a long time now and seeing her step into and thrive in the coaching role last season was remarkable”, said Willis.

“Returning to help her build her vision on court was a no brainer. I am ready to take on a leadership role and help this new-look women’s team to another successful season.

“Newcastle has become a home for me and I truly am invested in growing the game, particularly on the female side in the North East.

“Eagles have given me the opportunity to do that both through playing and coaching and it will be something that I will continually be grateful for.

“I am looking forward to getting back in-front of our fans at Vertu Arena, the support and backing behind us in our historic season last year was incredible.

“I hope to see everyone at our launch event on Friday!”

The Launch takes place this coming Friday 5 September at the Vertu Arena when a glittering night its lined-up for the Eagles men’s and women’s head coaches  to reveal their 2025/26 rosters. Tickets are still available on the box office.