WNBA Draftee Signs with the Sydney Flames

Melbourne product Charlise Dunn is set to return back to Australian shores after signing a two-year deal with the Sydney Flames.

Dunn spent the past three seasons with the Davidson Wildcats in the United States, establishing herself as a consistent and influential presence. Her senior campaign included a dominant 33-point, 11-rebound, three-steal performance, underlining her ability to impact games on both ends of the floor.

A dynamic playmaker known for her defensive intensity, Dunn will arrive in Sydney as a well-rounded prospect, with head coach Renae Garlepp securing a player widely regarded as one of the most exciting Australian talents to emerge from the NCAA system in recent years.

“I’m so excited for this new chapter in my basketball career and can’t wait to get to work with Renae in Sydney,” Dunn said.

“After four years of college in the US, I’m so grateful for this opportunity to come back home and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Dunn's rise has been shaped by a strong junior international career. She first represented Australia in 2018, earning MVP honours as the U15 Sapphires claimed gold at the Oceania Qualifiers. She later featured at the U17 level and secured a silver medal with the U19 Gems in 2019.

Her collegiate journey began at Virginia Tech before a move to Davidson, where she further developed her game and cemented her reputation as a high-impact guard. Now, in a full-circle moment, Dunn returns to Australia to begin her professional career in the WNBL.

Flames head coach Renae Garlepp said the club had secured a player with significant upside.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Charlise to the Flames,” says Garlepp.

“She’s a terrific young talent with real toughness, versatility and a strong work ethic. She has enormous potential, and we’re excited to help her continue to grow in a Flames jersey.”

Dunn's signing caps a significant year for the 22-year-old, who was also selected with the 36th overall pick in the WNBA Draft by expansion franchise Toronto Tempo. She is expected to join the Canadian side before linking up with the Flames for the WNBL season.