Retirement was short lived for Jacinta Scott.
Having helped Hume City Broncos win their third Big V state championship title in four years, Scott announced her retirement from Big V following the grand final series.
Scott was ready to step away from the Big V competition after more than 300 games with the Broncos, Craigieburn and Ringwood, in both senior and youth league competitions.As well as 300 plus games, she also had four state championship division titles to her name.
But a couple of factors in the offseason made Scott rethink her decision and late last year decided to continue her career with Wallan Panthers.
“I was first attracted to the thought of playing at Wallan because I wanted to finish up my playing career under Warren Taylor, although I felt I was ready to retire,” she said.
“I thought there would have been no better way to go out than on winning a championship at Hume.
“That changed when my sister [Sarah] signed with Wallan in early October and I had the opportunity to play one last season alongside her.
“I also thought it was a great opportunity for me to mentor and work with a lot of the girls coming up and just beginning their Big V journeys based on the experience and knowledge I bring with me.”
Scott will be part of the Panthers inaugural Big V team which will play in division 2. She will also be an assistant coach.
Taylor said the signing of Scott was an important one for the new team.
Taylor coached Scott to championships at both Craigieburn and the Broncos and was instrumental in her returning to the Broncos in 2013.
“There’s going to be a big difference between playing in the CBL (Country Basketball League) and Big V,” Taylor said.
“I know how much difference there is. To get someone with 300 games plus experience to get in the players ears on the court is invaluable.
“It will help the lesser experienced players handle the high pressure experiences.
“Her experience is fantastic.”
Taylor said it wasn’t just the experience that Scott will bring to the team.
“I know what she can do when she gets her feet set from beyond the three point arc. Her team defence is top class.
“I still think she could be playing state championship basketball. She’s already been training with the group and some of the girls are amazed with what she can do.”
