Meins Avenida has signed Stephanie Mawuli and Martina Fassina to provide leadership for a young roster competing in the Liga Femenina Endesa and the EuroCup. Both players arrive from the EuroLeague, bringing high-level European experience to the Salamanca-based club as they seek to build a competitive identity through a mix of youth and seasoned talent.
EuroLeague experience to anchor young roster
Club President Jorge Recio welcomed both players, emphasizing that their decision to join Avenida demonstrates a commitment to a new professional challenge. Recio acknowledged that moving from the EuroLeague to the EuroCup might be viewed as a competitive step back, but stated that Mawuli and Fassina possess the mentality to use the transition as “momentum” for their growth and the growth of the team.
Recio noted that the impact of the two signings extends beyond their on-court production. He stated that their experience in top-tier competitions is already assisting the younger players in the squad and influencing their approach to daily training.
Tactical roles for Mawuli and Fassina
Head coach Raquel Romo views the newcomers as natural references for a locker room lacking experience. Romo believes the duo serves as a positive example for younger teammates by demonstrating the requirements of competing at the highest level of professional basketball.
Romo outlined distinct tactical roles for each player to complement the team’s collective identity:
- Martina Fassina: Tasked with providing balance to the game, Fassina is expected to contribute through perimeter shooting, off-ball movement, and defensive solidity.
- Stephanie Mawuli: Focused on interior presence, Mawuli will be utilized for her one-on-one playmaking abilities, low-post scoring, and rebounding.
Mawuli in Spanish competition
Stephanie Mawuli enters her fourth season playing in Spain, noting that she is familiar with the high level of the league and the specific challenges of facing Avenida as a former opponent. Mawuli stated that she knows how “hard” and “good” the team has always been, and she expressed excitement about now defending the club’s colors.
Mawuli also highlighted her recent experience competing in the World Cup, describing it as a significant experience before joining the Salamanca project. She characterized the move to Avenida as the fulfillment of a personal objective, citing the club’s storied history in basketball.
Fassina seeks new responsibilities in Salamanca
Martina Fassina joined Meins Avenida following a tenure in Italy, citing a desire for a new professional challenge and a different role within a team. Fassina stated that the quality of the Spanish league and the standing of the club were the primary factors in her decision to move abroad.
Fassina noted that playing in a foreign country offers both sporting and human growth, allowing her to experience new cultures while assuming a new responsibility on the court.
Locker room integration and team chemistry
Despite a roster that is nearly entirely new, the club reports a strong initial connection among the players. Mawuli observed that while there is still significant work to be done, the group has established a positive foundation.
Related reading
