Former WH standout Snyder signs with team in New Zealand
Back in 2013 West Holmes great Laina Snyder entertained fans and led the Lady Knights to a state title. Snyder has continued her career into the pro game and has signed on to play with Whai Tauihi in New Zealand this fall.
Laina Snyder has played all over Europe during her professional basketball career, and she has recently signed on to play in a new area for a new team.
The Whai Basketball organization said it is excited to welcome Snyder to the Whai Tauihi team for the upcoming season.
Snyder played in the inaugural Tauihi season for the Southern Hoiho, where she averaged 20.6 points, 9.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game. Over the last two seasons, she has played for Alba Berlin in the German Bundesliga, winning the title this year. The 6-foot, 1-inch forward from Ohio/West Holmes High School/Ashland University brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Whai Basketball organization.
According to the Whai press release, Snyder said, “I am very happy to be joining the Whai this season. I have been familiar with the club since my time in the Tauihi league in 2022, and it has been neat watching the team continue to grow. I am excited to join a club dedicated to promoting women’s sports and being involved in the local community. Looking forward to this season.”
Whai Director of Basketball Alex Stojkovic said, “We have been trying to sign Laina since she played for the Hoiho. She was outstanding in her one season in New Zealand. I have watched her closely in the German league for Alba the last couple of seasons, and I am really excited that we could convince her to come to Tauranga to play for Whai. Laina is tough and competitive and can shoot the ball. She has a positivity about her, and I am sure Laina will be a fan favorite both on and off the court.”
Snyder will join the Whai for preseason in early September.