Career: Otago (New Zealand WNBL), Christchurch Sirens (Australian WNBL)

Bates made her first tour with the Tall Ferns to Japan in 2007 after representing New Zealand through the national age group teams. Her greatest strength is the maturity of her play, perhaps a result of experiences in her other chosen sport – cricket. Bates’ selection for the Tall Ferns made her a double international and she currently holds the record for highest innings (183) in the women’s domestic cricket league. Bates signed as a development player with the Christchurch Sirens for their debut in the Australian WNBL, but eventually passed import Ashley Awkward in the rotation.