Cras Basket Taranto have signed Stella Panella but decided to immediately send her out on loan.

The 17-year-old will play this season at Serie A2 Mercede Alghero.

Panella played at the U16 European Championship 2009 for Italy, averaging 8.3 points and 4.2 rebounds.

Italy finished sixth in the tournament, which was played in Naples.

"I think the loan move will help this talented player grow," said Cras youth team director Fabio Palagiano.

"It's a move done for the future of the club."