It is a good thing, too — they play the opening game of the Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa league exactly one month from today.
Seven players have been announced for the Southern Hoiho roster consisting of five imports and two local players.
Dunedin locals Zoe Richards, who was named Tauihi most improved player last year, and Samara Gallaher are back for their third season with the franchise.
They join two returning imports, American Paige Bradley, who made the Tauihi all-star five last year, and Australian Ahlise Hurst.
Americans Natalie Chou and Samantha Bowman, and Australian Isabella Brancatisano are the new imports joining the Hoiho this year.
They have all been playing in the NBL1 league in Australia.
Southern Hoiho general manager Angela Ruske is rapt with the job Todd Marshall has done putting the squad together.
"He’s spent many, many, many hours watching a lot of NBL1 games, also other footage," Ruske said.
"He’s put a lot of thought into players that suit the players we’ve got.
"It’s been a lot of hours putting together a team that should blend together incredibly well.
"We’re very excited about the quality of players both on and off the court that will be joining us."
Each Tauihi franchise has 15 spots available on their rosters with 12 paid contracts and three amateur.
Ruske confirmed the final eight spots in the Southern Hoiho roster would be local players.
"We want to make sure that we are developing and looking after the local talent as well, and Rapid League is an awesome opportunity for that.
"The quality of those players is good and it obviously will help with their development as well."
It will be Marshall’s second year in charge of the Southern Hoiho, after the Otago Nuggets stalwart joined the franchise last season.
Under his reign, the Southern Hoiho, who only won one game in the 2022 season, finished the regular season second with a record of seven wins and five losses.
They eventually finished fourth after losing 82-72 to the Whai in their final game. Marshall was also named Tauihi coach of the year.
"He’s a very good leader and he knows how to get the best out of his players," Ruske said.
"Very dedicated and has put a of of thought into . . . the players.
"Couldn’t be happier and he’s awesome to deal with."
The Southern Hoiho season starts against the Tokomanawa Queens in Porirua on October 4.
