"I've always dreamed about this": Star ready to shine for Opals

The star of Sydney Flames’ Isabelle Bourne continues to point straight up after the talented forward was named in the Australian Opals’ 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup squad.

This selection comes off the back of Bourne’s strong showings in the green and gold at the 2025 Asia Cup and recent friendlies with China at John Cain Arena, marking the 25-year-old’s first major tournament selection with Sandy Brondello’s side.

Fresh off finding out about her selection, the Canberra-born talent can’t wait to do her country proud in Germany in September.

"I'm still trying to find the words to describe this feeling," Bourne said to ESPN.

"Ultimately, I'm grateful; I've always dreamed about this, but for it to actually happen doesn't feel real at the moment. The thought of standing alongside my teammates representing Australia sends shivers down my spine."

Bourne is the only change from Brondello’s 12-person squad that competed at March’s qualifying tournament in Türkiye, replacing former Southside Melbourne Flyers teammate Cayla George, who is pregnant with her second child, in the squad.

The Flames recruit believes George’s mentorship helped her grab this opportunity with both hands.

"I look back and being under Cayla's wing was really helpful for me, growing my game and growing confidence and being able to do what I do," she said.

"Even at the China Series, she gave me a boost of confidence right before we went on the court, said some really lovely words to me, and even that meant the world to know she's supporting me, [has] got my back and believes in me. It does a world of good, probably more than anyone realises; it really helped me."

Joining Bourne in the squad are fellow WNBL stars Adelaide’s Zitina Aokuso and Steph Talbot, Bendigo’s Jade Melbourne and Isobel Borlase, Sydney’s Ally Wilson, Townsville’s Alex Fowler, Tasmania’s Steph Reid and Perth’s Sami Whitcomb, as well as WNBA talents Ezi Magbegor, Alanna Smith and Chloe Bibby.

Read the full story here >> 'Dreamed about this': Bourne joins Opals' World Cup squad