WNBL trio set for WNBA Finals showdown

The 2026 WNBA Finals will have a distinct WNBL flavour, with three current stars set to feature.

The first team to qualify for the Finals was the Atlanta Dream, headlined by Bendigo’s Izzy Borlase and Tasmania’s Madina Okot, defeating New York 85-83 on Saturday to sweep the Series.

In the win, reigning WNBL MVP Borlase tallied 10 points, 2 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 assist in 20 minutes off the bench.

Former WNBL MVP Jordin Canada was also huge in the win, adding 19 points and 11 dimes, while former League import Naz Hillmon added 4 boards and 3 assists.

In the defeat, Geelong’s Han Xu had 2 points and 2 rebounds, while Perth’s Anneli Maley and Opal Bec Allen were unused substitutes.

With this result, Allen’s WNBA career comes to an end, with her recently announcing this season would be her last.

The Dream will now play Golden State, featuring Townsville’s Miela Sowah, in the Finals, after the Valkyries edged Las Vegas 87-77 in overtime to claim the Series 3-0.

Former WNBL imports Kayla Thornton and Veronica Burton contributed 18 and 8 points, respectively, in the win.

In the defeat, Adelaide’s Steph Talbot had 2 rebounds, 2 dimes and 1 block for the Aces, who also featured former Perth Lynx guard Jackie Young.

Game 1 of the Finals is in Atlanta on Sunday, October 18 AEDT from 6.30am.