CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand – Join us in welcoming the newest addition to the ProBuild ITM Mainland Pouākai, Australian star Marena Whittle!
Whittle, an experienced 5’11” wing, most recently played for the Rockingham Flames in the NBL1 West, scoring 21.7 points, grabbing 8.1 rebounds, and making 2.9 three-pointers to the tune of 40.0%.
“I’m really glad we were able to bring Marena into the group,” said Head Coach Alex Stojkovic. “She brings toughness, experience, and shooting – all the qualities you want in a high-level wing.”
“Marena is an all-around impact player who’s played at the highest levels: EuroLeague, EuroCup, the WNBL, and international 3×3. She knows what it takes to win.”
As mentioned by Coach Stojkovic, Whittle has an extensive amount of international experience, most notably playing for KSC Szekszárd in the EuroLeague and EuroCup in 24/25, as well as Adelaide Lightning and Perth Lynx in the Australian WNBL.
On her decision to play Tauihi, Whittle cited that “[the] Pouākai are a really professional organisation, with great resources and attitude towards building the community. I am always passionate about getting involved with the community, and it’s also for me an easy way to see what clubs really value.”
“Alex is a winning coach, who plays a style that suits my game down to the ground, so with him moving to the club, the decision was easy.”
“Marena gives us great flexibility,” added Stojkovic. “She can slot in anywhere from the 2 to the 4 and brings a competitive edge every time she steps on the court. Her ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and make smart plays adds real depth to our roster.”
“This signing helps us go 8 or 9 deep without any drop-off in intensity or execution. That’s going to let us play the style we want—fast, aggressive, and relentless. Marena’s another strong piece in what we believe is a really balanced and dangerous team.”
“I like to play fast, physical and exciting style of basketball,” said Whittle, breaking down her playstyle. “I’m competitive and believe when we all play well, we play our best basketball, and probably win. Expect physical plays, scoring, big plays and lots of hype up energy. Expect crowd involvement, I have a habit of getting up with the fans during games and big plays.”
Whittle has also had a great share of success playing 3×3 basketball, where she has represented Australia on the world stage. Since 2022, she has contributed to a dominant Australian team on the Asia Cup circuit, and in 2024 she played on Australia’s inaugural Olympic 3×3 squad in Paris.
”I want to continue Alex’s winning culture and win a championship,” stated Whittle on her goals this upcoming season. “But besides basketball, [I want to] enjoy my time, get around the community and play really good basketball. Any coffee or cafe recommendations are very much appreciated.”
Whittle isn’t the only Aussie making the trip across the ditch this season as hinted by Stojkovic.
“[On the next signing]… Let’s just say this one’s going to excite a lot of fans. Our next announcement is our point guard, and a proven winner. She’s Australian, she played in Tauihi before, and now she’s ready to run the show in Christchurch. Feel free to take a guess.”
Pouākai season memberships are available now! Fly Fearless with us in 2025 as we chase our first-ever Tauihi championship!
2025 ProBuild ITM Mainland Pouākai: Charlotte Whittaker, Taylor Mikesell, McKenna Dale, Abigail Fogg, Marena Whittle.
