- DOB: 11/03/1997
- Height: 173cm
The opportunity to be coached by former Silver Ferns great Temepara Bailey was a major drawcard in luring well-performed midcourter Claire O’Brien to the Stars for the 2026 season. O’Brien spent the last two seasons with the Magic. Born in Australia but with strong New Zealand connections, at her best, O’Brien is an explosive player with her short sharp movements being a feature on attack. Consistently strong performances were rewarded with inclusion in the 2024-25 Silver Ferns squad but O’Brien failed to regain her spot in 2025-26. She is hoping a new environment will help drive her game to new heights and a return to international ranks. Hard-working with a tenacious training attitude, O’Brien is a resilient and dogged competitor who will add variety and impetus to the Stars well-versed midcourt line-up. She was previously a training partner for the Mystics before gaining a fulltime contract with the side in 2022. She returned to Australia in 2023 but came back to the Mystics as late season injury cover and impressed with her ability to slot back in seamlessly. O’Brien’s previous experience of playing in Australia’s Super Netball competition and the former trans-Tasman league have proved beneficial for all concerned where her leadership skills and no-nonsense approach are key assets.
