Stars align for Goldsby with playoff push in sight
After five years with the London Cavaliers Kat Goldsby has a new home - and the rest of the WNBL should take note.
Moving across to newly-promoted London All Stars, the American has wasted no time in making her mark. A game-high 19 points helped her new side see off much-fancied Anglia Ruskin University 68-57 on Saturday, springing what most WNBL fans would considered an upset on opening weekend.
The result wasn't a surprise to Goldsby and Co though. "ARU have grit and discipline, so we expected a battle. They drove the ball with force, created good spacing, and had shooters ready to punish any lapse," the American explained.
"We weren’t flawless, but I liked our composure in key stretches and the lift from the bench. The energy from our community on the side lines was massive and lifted us in the big moments.
"For a newly-promoted D1 team, it’s a strong starting point with plenty to build on."
Building something tangible across the Stars programme is what enticed the standout guard to switch allegiances from the Cavs ahead of the 2025/26 season, leaving a team she'd spent the last five seasons growing both on and off the court.
The switch is something Goldsby believes in, and from what she's already seen at her new club, there is not only plenty to work with, but room for growth as well.
"We’re ambitious but grounded," admitted Goldsby, detailing the club's outlook.
"First, we want to establish ourselves in D1 and be hard to play against every week with our identity built on defence, discipline and unselfish basketball.
"If we keep stacking good habits, a playoff push is realistic.
"Beyond results, we’re building a sustainable programme with strong culture, player development and real links to the community and pathway. If we stay healthy and keep our standards high in training, we’ll surprise a few people."
Goldsby spent five seasons with London Cavaliers (Luke Simcock)
'It fits who I am'
Other teams might not stay surprised for long. With upcoming games against Bristol, Brent and Bromsgrove, the Londoners have an opportunity to move into a solid position by the end of October.
Regardless of how those games pan out, Goldsby won't be one to second-guess her decision. Admittedly, leaving the Cavs was a tough choice, but the All Stars align with her as a player and a person, and that was something she couldn't turn down.
"Five years is a big chapter, and I’m grateful for everything we built at the Cavs. But after that long, a fresh start in a different environment makes sense," said the Fairfield, Alabama native.
"The All Stars give me a new platform to compete in WNBL D1 and continue developing my coaching, leading a men’s side and working with London Legends & Activities 4 U U16 and U14 girls.
"We’re strengthening the pathway through the leagues so girls can progress and stay in the game.
"It fits who I am, developing people, creating opportunities and pushing the women’s game in London forward."
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Main image credit - Flo Alalade