"I've pretty much been living on the bike for the past few months so it's very exciting to get to run," said Cullen.
After her World Youth Cup tournament ended before it began, denying Cullen a chance to be part of New Zealand's shock win over Australia, the athletic defender has been hoping to get the chance to return to Glasgow in July with the Silver Ferns.
At best, Cullen won't be back on court for the Mystics until May, giving her only a few weeks to convince the selectors she warrants inclusion in the national team.
"I've never ruled [the Commonwealth Games] out, I've always believed that I can make it back. I think I have to take that attitude because as soon as I give up on it then I'm screwed mentally - I don't want to lose that motivation. It's been a goal I've been aiming towards for so long."
Cullen is not the only Mystics player on the comeback trail, with coach Debbie Fuller having to carefully manage several over the preseason.
Shooter Bailey Mes is further advanced than Cullen in her rehabilitation from a knee reconstruction but still isn't expected to be match-ready for the Mystics' opening game against the Vixens in Melbourne.
Australian import Julie Corletto has also had her training restricted in the preseason as she recovers from a foot injury and knee problems, while her defensive partner Anna Harrison returns from the birth of her son in September.
Harrison heads to Tasmania this weekend for the Mystics' preseason clash against the Vixens. It will be the first time Tasmania has hosted an ANZ Championship fixture, albeit an out-of-competition one.