It was only a few years ago that a bespectacled Giorgia Sottana was trying to help Italy win games at the EuroBasket Women in Chieti as a teenager.

The 1.77m point guard had earned her spot in the team after helping Italy at the U20 European Championship just weeks before.

Sottana is still only 21 years of age but her club side, Umana Reyer, have announced that she is to be their captain this season.

Umana Reyer will compete in this season's Eurocup Women.

"I am obviously very happy and honored to be handed this role," Sottana said.

"I've never had any problems taking responsibility and it will not be a problem to take additional responsibility.

"I think this is a reward for having been at the club for seven years.

"Even though I'm only 21, I am the oldest in this group, the player that has been wearing the Reyer colors the longest."

Sottana admits she will need to grow into role.

"Of course this is something new for me and I will get help from those that have more experience than me," she said.

"But I trust that we are all professionals and the girls know what has to be done."

Energa Part With Cocks

New Zealand international Micaela Cocks has parted ways with Polish outfit Energa Torun by mutual consent.

Cocks had started in three of the team's first four games and averaged 9.5 points per game.

Energa, who will play in the EuroCup Women this season, have won two of their four games in Poland's top flight.