WNBL stars headline Opals squad

Basketball Australia announced on Saturday the first Seven Consulting Opals roster ahead of a massive year for the senior women’s program.

A full-strength 19-player roster, including 14 current WNBL players, has been named ahead of a FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup - Qualifying Tournament to be hosted by Istanbul, Turkey, in March 2026.

The 14 WNBL players include Townsville Fire’s Abbey Ellis, Alex Fowler, Miela Sowah and Courtney Woods, UC Capitals’ Zitina Aokuso, Sara Blicavs and Jade Melbourne, Southside Melbourne Flyers’ Issy Bourne, Cayla George and Maddy Rocci, Perth Lynx’s Amy Atwell and Alex Wilson, Bendigo Spirit’s Isobel Borlase and Adelaide’s Steph Talbot.

Rounding out the squad are Ezi Magbegor (Seattle Storm), Alannah Smith (Minnesota Lynx), Sami Whitcomb (Beşiktaş), Chloe Bibby (Uni Girona CB) and Steph Reid (Dongguan New Century).

The Opals have already qualified for Germany’s FIBA World Cup in September, but the preparation opportunity aligned with off-seasons and greater availability for head coach, Sandy Brondello.

“Availability is hugely important and honestly, a luxury we don’t often have in the international space. Having full access to the talent pool gives us real clarity and confidence,” said Brondello.

“It allows the staff and I to evaluate the group together, accelerate connection and trust, test roles and versatility, and ultimately strengthen the foundation we’re building toward the FIBA Women’s World Cup.”

The greater level of availability presented pressure on selection, and Brondello says the Opals program analysed a variety of factors in deciding the 19-player roster.

“Our selection methodology is always layered. We looked at sustained performance over time, including Asia Cup and WNBA play, current form in 2026 in respective leagues, and how players fit within our system,” said Brondello.

“Just as important was role clarity, versatility, and the ability to impact winning in a FIBA environment. We also valued the connection and chemistry that’s been built within the group over the past few years.

“It was a difficult process given the depth we have, but we believe this roster gives us the best balance to compete in Turkey while continuing to build toward the World Cup.”

Australia’s Opals will face five opponents in the tournament, including Argentina, Japan, Hungary, Turkey and Canada.

“March is about clarity and connection for us. We want to be really clear on our identity, how we play, and the standards we bring every time we step on the floor,” Brondello said.

“Defence, role clarity, and execution under pressure will be critical in Istanbul. With tough competition ahead, this tournament isn’t just about winning - it’s an important step in building toward the World Cup.”

A final 12 for the Opals will be announced in the new year in preparation for the meet in Istanbul, for the March 11-18 tournament.