Aussies in the WNBA: Alanna Smith

• Named to WNBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2024 with Minnesota Lynx
• Bronze medallist with Australian Opals at 2024 Paris Olympics
• FIBA All-Star Five selection at 2024 Paris Olympics

Alanna Smith's journey from WNBA rookie to defensive standout and Olympic medallist showcases her resilience and evolving impact in women's basketball.

Key details

Name: Alanna Smith
Age: 28
Team(s): Minnesota Lynx (current), Phoenix Mercury, Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky
Position: Power forward
Size: 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
Weight: 183 lb (83 kg)

Playing Style

Alanna Smith has developed into a versatile power forward known for her defensive prowess and improving offensive game. Her 6'3" frame allows her to defend multiple positions effectively, using her length and mobility to disrupt opponents. Smith's anticipation and positioning have become key assets, leading to her selection to the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2024.

Offensively, Smith has shown growth throughout her WNBA career. While initially struggling to find consistent playing time, she has developed into a reliable stretch four with the ability to knock down three-pointers and create space for her teammates. Her improved shooting and decision-making have made her a valuable asset on both ends of the court.

Career

Alanna Smith's professional career began when she was selected 8th overall by the Phoenix Mercury in the 2019 WNBA draft. Her rookie season was challenging, with limited playing time and an ankle injury cutting her season short. Despite the setbacks, Smith persevered, gradually increasing her role over the next two seasons with the Mercury.

After a brief stint with the Indiana Fever in 2022, Smith found her footing with the Chicago Sky in 2023. This proved to be her breakout season, starting 35 games and posting career-high averages across all statistical categories. Her improved performance earned her consideration for the WNBA Most Improved Player Award.

Smith's career reached new heights in 2024 after signing with the Minnesota Lynx. Her defensive capabilities shone through, earning her a spot on the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team. This recognition solidified her status as one of the league's premier defenders and showcased her development since entering the league.

Internationally, Smith has been a key player for the Australian national team. She made her senior debut for the Opals at the 2017 FIBA Women's Asia Cup, immediately making an impact with her scoring and rebounding. Her performances helped Australia secure silver medals at both the 2017 Asia Cup and the 2018 FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup.

The pinnacle of Smith's international career came at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite facing adversity in the tournament, Smith played a crucial role in Australia's bronze medal victory. Her outstanding performances throughout the Olympics earned her a place in the FIBA All-Star Five, recognising her as one of the top players in the tournament.

Five Fast Facts

1. Smith played college basketball at Stanford University, earning All-American honours in her senior year.
2. She was named to the All-WNBL Second Team while playing for the Adelaide Lightning in the 2021-22 season.
3. Smith won an NBL1 North championship with the Townsville Flames in 2022.
4. She was named MVP of the Polish Basket Liga Kobiet while playing for AZS AJP Gorzów Wielkopolski in the 2022-23 season.
5. Smith recorded a double-double in the bronze medal game at the 2024 Paris Olympics, scoring 13 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.

Career Highlights Timeline

2019: Drafted 8th overall by the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA draft

2020: Named to the All-Star team in the Women's Korean Basketball League

2022: Won NBL1 North championship and Finals MVP with Townsville Flames

2023: Had breakout WNBA season with Chicago Sky, starting 35 games

2024: Named to WNBA All-Defensive Second Team with Minnesota Lynx

2024: Won bronze medal at Paris Olympics and selected to FIBA All-Star Five

2024: Lost in the WNBA Finals to the New York Liberty 3-2

Alanna Smith's journey in professional basketball exemplifies perseverance and continuous improvement. From her challenging early years in the WNBA to becoming a defensive stalwart and Olympic medallist, Smith has shown remarkable growth in her game. Her success with the Minnesota Lynx and standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics have cemented her status as one of Australia's top basketball exports.

As Smith enters the prime of her career, her trajectory suggests even greater achievements on the horizon. Her ability to impact the game on both ends of the court makes her a valuable asset for both the Lynx and the Australian national team. With her combination of defensive prowess, improving offensive skills, and international experience, Alanna Smith is poised to continue making significant contributions to women's basketball for years to come.