Power forward Payne, 23, averaged seven points and four rebounds per game last season, with coach Simon Pritchard keen to get her signature again for the Spirit’s 2017-18 campaign.

“A lot of what Nadeen did for us last year won’t appear on the stats sheet,” Pritchard said on Friday.

“She played some big roles for us defensively last season, and we were able to use her in a number of different offensive roles as well.

“She filled some gaps for us in the second half of the year and played really well in unfamiliar positions. That sort of player is invaluable.”

Pritchard said Payne also provided a valuable contribution off the court for the Spirit, who finished sixth with a 13-11 record.

“Her dedication and commitment at training and contribution to team culture is part of why I wanted her back,” Pritchard said.

“That part of sport is important to this team and club. It’s not just about results, it’s about building a sustainable team and a sustainable culture.

“These girls know they are role models to every young Bendigo and regional Victorian basketballer and we want this city to be proud of not just just the kind of team we develop, but the kind of person we develop as well.”

Payne said she was excited to be returning for a second season with the Spirit in the WNBL, which this week received a major boost with the announcement of a new deal with Fox Sports that will see the competition return to TV.

“I’m a small-town girl at heart and I love the community support Bendigo shows in this team. The club, the fans and city have been great, so it was an easy decision to come back,” Payne said.