THE Bendigo Spirit winning the WNBL championship is big news, but another piece of news to come out of Sunday's win was just as big for the club going forward.
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Grand final MVP Kelsey Griffin revealed after the game that last Thursday she applied for permanent residency in Australia.
"I sent off my distinguished talent visa on Thursday, so I'm really trying hard to get permanent residency,'' Griffin said.
"So if there's anyone out there that wants to help and give a shout out to immigration that I do help out the country, I'd really appreciate it,'' Griffin added with a chuckle.
Rival WNBL coaches will be contacting immigration to do everything they can to quash Griffin's dream.
Kristi Harrower aside, Griffin played at a level above everyone else on Sunday.
The US import torched the Fire for 28 points and 15 rebounds.
"Us winning the last two championships really has a lot to do with Kelsey being in our group,'' Kristi Harrower said of Griffin.
"She brings the athleticism to our group, she's a workhorse, she's a blue-collar worker and that's what has won us the championship the past two years."
Griffin has repeatedly said that playing for Bendigo the past two years has reignited her passion for basketball.
Despite being in a position to command big money to play in Europe, the Connecticut Sun WNBA forward would dearly love to continue with the Spirit.
"I love it in Bendigo, I love playing with my team-mates,'' she said.
"This team really motivates me.
"I feel very lucky that I have the chance to play in Bendigo with the Spirit."