Wednesday, March 15, 2023
by Central Washington Athletic Communications

ELLENSBURG, Wash. – Central Washington senior center Samantha Bowman has signed a professional contract with the Rockhampton Cyclones out of the NBL1 North League in Rockhampton, Queensland in Australia.

Bowman is set to make her professional debut in the team's season opener on March 24.
 
"I'm super excited and nervous," Bowman said. "It's a great opportunity I couldn't pass up and I'm so grateful to continue my career! I couldn't have even thought of this opportunity without Randi (Richardson-Thornley) and Jessica (Richardson) and all the coaches before them, helping me grow and develop into the player and person I am. I have the upmost respect for them and cherish all the memories I got to spend in this program. To all my teammates I've had throughout my four years at CWU, you all played a part in getting me to this point. I love you all and will always remember my time here."
 
This past season cemented Bowman as one of the greatest basketball players ever for the Wildcats, posting 22.2 points per game, 14.9 rebounds per game, 3.6 assists per game, 46 blocks and 45 steals. Bowman was tabbed as the GNAC Player of the Year, First Team All-GNAC, D2CCA West Region Player of the Year, D2CCA All-West Region First Team, and was named to the NCAA West Regional All-Tournament Team.

Bowman set the GNAC career record with 1,219 rebounds and ranks third on the conference's career list with 10.2 rebounds per game. She also finished her career ranked 10th in scoring with 1,632 points.
 
"We are very proud of Sam and happy for her to be continuing her basketball journey," CWU women's basketball head coach Randi Richardson-Thornley said. "We have seen firsthand all her dedication and hard work over the past five years and know she is ready for this next challenge. We wish her the absolute best in these next steps and her Wildcat family will be supporting and cheering her on from afar."