Adelaide Lightning is excited to announce the signing of promising young talent Abbey Jones for the 2026/27 WNBL season, pending league approval, following an impressive progression through the Lightning Academy, Townsville Tipoff and, most recently, as a training player with the WNBL squad.
Jones has continued to impress the Lightning coaching staff with her work ethic, versatility and ability to compete at the WNBL level, earning her an opportunity to join the club as a Development Player.
After showcasing her potential throughout the Lightning Academy program and at Townsville Tipoff, Jones has made a seamless transition into the senior training environment, providing a strong presence in the frontcourt through her rebounding, versatility and willingness to compete.
Adelaide Lightning Head Coach, Aja Parham-Ammar praised Jones' development and the impact she has already made within the group.
"Abbey has been incredibly impressive throughout the entire process, from the Academy to Townsville Tipoff and now as a training player with our WNBL squad.
"She has fitted seamlessly into our training environment and consistently shown her ability to compete at this level. Her rebounding, versatility in the frontcourt and willingness to do whatever the team needs have really stood out.
"Abbey has earned this opportunity through her hard work and performances, and we're incredibly excited to see her take this next step with the Lightning."
Jones' signing highlights the importance of the Adelaide Lightning Academy in creating meaningful opportunities for emerging talent to develop and progress into the WNBL environment.
The Academy, led by Head Coach Aja Parham-Ammar, provides talented young athletes with exposure to professional standards, coaching and a clear pathway towards representing the Adelaide Lightning.
"One of our key priorities is creating a genuine pathway for young athletes to progress into our WNBL program," Madgen said.
"Abbey is a fantastic example of what that pathway can look like. She has taken every opportunity presented to her and continued to improve, and it's exciting to see that rewarded."
Jones will be available for selection for Adelaide Lightning this weekend as the club prepares to begin its WNBL season.
