After trialling for the past three weeks, the 26-year-old power forward-centre yesterday signed with the Capitals as cover for Jackson and injured youngster Alex Bunton.

Both are in doubt for next Saturday's WNBL season opener against the Sydney Uni Flames in Sydney.

Jackson's availability will depend on how far her WNBA team, the Seattle Storm, progress in the play-offs, while AIS product Bunton is recovering slower than expected from an off-season knee injury.

Ogoke hopes to make the most of her opportunity after jumping at the chance to learn from Capitals and Australian Opals coach Carrie Graf.

''Coming to Canberra, I really wanted to impress Graffy and show her I have the work ethic required at this level,'' Ogoke said.

''I remember watching the Opals play during the Olympics and being in awe of Lauren Jackson and Graffy.

''I have a lot of respect for Australian basketball players, so it'd be awesome to one day play next to LJ.''

The 188cm Ogoke developed her game at Loyola Marymount college before heading to Australia to join the South West Slammers in the Western Australia state league this year.

Her performances caught the eye of former West Coast Waves coach David Herbert, who is now an assistant coach at the Capitals.

Graf said Ogoke's rebounding and presence in the paint would come in handy until her squad returned to full strength.

''Valerie has a long way to go her in development, but she's a quality person, has a great work ethic and can do the simple things well,'' Graf said. ''She's athletic and it gives us a boost in the post.

''After the pre-season tournament, we thought it was the natural thing to sign her.''

Capitals forward Brigitte Ardossi expects to find out today whether she will be free to play in the season opener after being cited by the WNBL judiciary.

Ardossi had a telephone hearing yesterday after Bulleen lodged a complaint over a striking charge after last week's pre-season game.