CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand — Tall Fern star McKenna Dale is set to return for her second season with the ProcureX Mainland Pouākai.
Being Tauihi’s second all-time leading scorer, the highest mark for any Kiwi player, Dale enters the new season ready to add to her already impressive resume. 2025 saw Dale post per game averages of 12.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists.
“I’m incredibly grateful that McKenna is returning for another season with the Pouākai,” said Head Coach Alex Stojkovic. “She makes my job as a coach so much easier because you know exactly what you’re going to get every single day – professionalism, competitiveness, leadership and a genuine desire to win. She’s someone every coach would love to have in their team.”
“The primary reason driving my return to the Pouākai centers on the culture that the organization has built,” said Dale. “The coaches, staff, and players create an environment that challenges everyone to improve while fostering genuine trust and a shared commitment to success.”
“Reaching the finals last season reinforced my belief in what this organization is capable of, and I’m excited for the opportunity to continue to develop as a player while contributing to the continued success of the program.”
With an impact that extended beyond her on-court contributions, Dale was recognised for her efforts at the 2026 Mainland Pouākai Club Awards, earning the Hustle Player of the Year award and sharing Co-Teammate of the Year honours.
“For me, she’s the premier two-way player in New Zealand basketball. She can take over a game offensively, defend the opposition’s best player, and her leadership is just as valuable as anything she does statistically,” added Stojkovic. “She has quickly become one of the cornerstones of this programme. McKenna has already achieved so much in her career, but I truly believe her best basketball is still ahead of her. As she enters the prime of her career, that’s an incredibly exciting prospect for our club.”
“My personal goal for the season is to continue to grow and develop as a player in every way that I can,” said Dale. “I want to be a consistent and reliable presence on both ends of the floor, bring leadership and positive energy to the team, and continue to find meaningful ways to give back to the Christchurch community.
“Ultimately, my focus is on helping build a strong team culture and doing whatever is required to give Pouākai the best opportunity to compete for a championship.”
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