Stars midcourter Greer Sinclair has been sidelined for the remainder of the ANZ Premiership season after re-aggravating a knee injury.
Sinclair ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament last season and was hopeful of featuring for the Stars in 2026.
The setback has resulted in Sinclair needing minor surgery to resolve persistent swelling.
She will work towards a return to the court in 2027.
Stars coach Temepara Bailey is devastated for Sinclair.
"I'm really gutted for Greer and our team, as she was such a key part of the group. She was struggling a bit on her return journey, so has made the decision to have surgery so she can be ready to go next year, but we are really sad for her."
Training partner Abbie Leger has been elevated to the full-time squad for the remainder of the campaign.
Leger is a graduate of the Comets program and has featured in three of the Stars' four games so far this season.
Bailey's excited to give Leger more opportunity.
"Abbie works hard and has a personality that fits the group. It's great to see her come from our Comets pathway and we want to be able to provide players like her the opportunity when they're ready."
