FOR the Ipswich Lady Force, leadership in 2026 won’t be about noise or ego.
Captain and point guard Olivia West, 28, brings close to three decades of experience on the hard court to a Lady Force side determined to turn last year’s lessons into finals success.
“We’ve got such a strong leadership group,” West said.
“There are a lot of returning players, a lot of experience, and I think it’ll be leadership by committee this year.”
West’s basketball journey began almost as early as it could.
Growing up in Tasmania, she represented the state before relocating to Melbourne during her final years of high school, where she played under-18s and under-20s for Vic Metro.
Her path then took her overseas for a five-year collegiate career in the US, playing at Utah State before transferring to Hawaii Pacific University and later the University of California, Riverside.
After returning to Australia, West spent a season with the Launceston Tornadoes before relocating to Brisbane to begin her PhD in gut microbiome research – and it was there that her Ipswich journey truly began.
She played 14 games in her debut season with the Lady Force last year, quickly earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike.
Incoming Lady Force head coach Dean Aspland has publicly praised West.
“She brings experience, intelligence, drive and leadership,” he said. “She’s a great leader because she doesn’t take shortcuts and does everything the right way.
“Leads by example and always first to training to do extra individuals and last to leave after a shooting workout post training.
“Someone you definitely want to go into battle with.”
A point guard for much of her career, West sees leadership as part of the role.
“When you’re running a team on the floor, you’re basically a second coach,” she said.
“You have to understand people, understand situations, and help others play their best basketball.”
After missing finals last season, the goal for 2026 is clear.
“The aim is to make finals,” West said.
“But also to do it the right way – finding our groove as a team and getting the best out of everyone.”
Beyond the scoreboard, West understands the broader significance of her role.
“It’s amazing to see how much women’s basketball has grown,” she said.
“Even compared to when I was in college, the opportunities now are so much better.”
She believes visibility at the NBL1 level matters, particularly for young players watching from the stands.
“When younger girls can see a pathway and believe those opportunities exist, that’s powerful,” she said.
For Ipswich, West may be exactly what’s needed to take the next step and return to playoffs.
