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13 October 2026  5 min read

'It’s been a joy' - ARU's Olivia Rangel on settling into the WNBL

The American has taken WNBL Division One by storm in the early going, helping the defending champs to go a perfect 4-0 behind some stellar performance.

Currently leading the league's efficiency charts, and with a second-best 27.0PPG, Rangel also ranks fourth for rebounding (12.3PPG) and for assists (4.8APG).

Such a well-rounded skillset is hard to find. With a season-high of 33 points against Worcester a few weeks ago, her impact has been immediate, but for Anglia Ruskin and WNBL fans it nearly never happened at all.

"I graduated from Carroll University back in 2025 and spent a year in the working world," confesses the Franklin, Wisconsin native.

"I toyed with the idea of going back to school and/or continuing my playing career as it was something I missed."

In the end, a conversation with a well-known NBL name, former Derby Trailblazers' coach Matt Shaw, set the wheels in motion.

"I ended up reaching back out to Matt with Student Athlete Network to see if there were any opportunities in the UK. He put me in contact with ARU a few months later.

"I’m working towards my MBA and that's something that's important to me, so I'm very grateful I received the opportunity to do that and get back playing again."

The rest, as they say, is history. Solving Rangel will be an issue for teams across the league for the rest of the season, alongside the WNBL National Cup and at current pace, next spring's playoffs as well.

Whilst her physical talents have shone through with eye-catching numbers, Rangel credits another facet of her game with her fast start.

"I think one of my biggest strengths is my composure," she added. "I feel like I have a good mental grip on the game.

"I hold myself to a high standard with an equal understanding that shots will be missed, mistakes will be made, and bad games will be had.

"The mental side of the game is huge and I pride myself on not getting down regardless of the outcome."

 

 

 

 

 

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Expectations are higher at ARU these days after they captured last season's playoff title, their first since 2018/19, and more is demanded from this group than perhaps would be the case in years past.

For Rangel specifically, change is never easy, and her move to a new country certainly isn't without its challenges. The game may largely retain the same rules across the globe, but it evolves from location to location, coach to coach and player to player.

For Rangel, it's all par for the course, and she's eager to contribute to the cause with a smile on her face.

"I think basketball in a different environment than what you’re used to is something you don’t fully grasp until you’re in it," she said. "Now that I am, I’ve been having a ton of fun experiencing this league in England and I’m fortunate to be playing high-level basketball again."

"Obviously moving to a new country is a huge step in itself but I’ve been taking things as they come and settling into a good routine.

"My team-mates and coach have been wonderful! They’ve all been so welcoming and inclusive from the jump which has made this transition that much more special.

"It’s been a joy getting to know everyone and it’s something I continue to look forward to going forward."

 

 

 

 

 

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Playing since the age of nine as an eager fourth grader, Rangel was initially attracted to competitive tryouts and has played the game ever since. Leading her side in every major offensive category so far in 2026/27, plus minutes per game, her journey has led her to becoming a key piece of the ARU game plan.

Suffice to say, the rest of D1W needs to be ready whenever they line up against Rangel and co. this season.

"My goals are to stay healthy, stay hungry, and soak it all in. It’s a long season and a lot can happen. That being said, it’s also going to go by so quickly!

"I know if I can maintain this early form then my game will speak for itself.

"As a team, obviously riding this undefeated wave as long as possible is the goal, in addition to putting ourselves in the best position to win another championship."

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Main image credit - Carroll University