Wightman commits to Flyers as rise continues

The Southside Melbourne Flyers on Friday announced the commitment of Isobelle Wightman to their WNBL27 roster, pending League approval.

Having started as a train-on player with the Flyers during the 2024-25 season, Wightman's hard work saw her progress to a Development Player role in WNBL26, which led to her making three appearances for the club (including two in the Semi-Finals against Townsville).

Flyers coach Sam Mackinnon said the experience of those WNBL games in her debut season, in particular the Semi-Finals, added to Wightman's growth as a player.

"Izzy is a fantastic talent, and we're thrilled for her to make the jump onto the roster," Mackinnon said.

"Her athleticism in the open court is elite and her ability to stretch the floor are attributes that make her a perfect fit for the Flyers."

For Wightman, the roster spot is reward for her commitment to getting better, but she knows it is just the start.

"I am super excited to be a roster player with the Flyers," Wightman said.

"The last two years have been fantastic for my development and while it has been a goal to be part of the actual roster, it really is the start of my career, and I am looking forward to continuing to improve.

"It will be an exciting season, and I am looking forward to being coached by Sam."

Wightman's basketball journey began at age five with the Eltham Wildcats and progressed through representative levels, including four years with Victoria Metro at National Championships.

She has also attended two Australian development camps and gained senior experience in the NBL1, playing for the Melbourne Tigers and most recently the Keilor Thunder.

Wightman joins Haylee Andrews, Lara Edmanson, Carly Ernst, Cayla George, Hannah Hank, Tess Heal, Saffron Shiels and Siyu Wang on Mackinnon's WNBL27 roster.

The Flyers open their season against Sydney at the State Basketball Centre on October 16.