Breakout star departs Lightning for US college move

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Another young Aussie talent has put their professional league goals on hold to chase the bright lights of the NCAA after the Adelaide Lightning announced Dallas Loughridge won't return and will instead pursue college basketball opportunities.

The 22-year-old departs the WNBL after winning the league's Breakout Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season following her move from the Southside Flyers to the Lightning, where she was able to move from a bench guard to a starting role for Adelaide.

Loughridge averaged 16.3 points, four assists and 2.4 rebounds in more than 36 minutes for the Lightning and was set to be an integral part of the club's future as they build under new coach Aja Parham-Ammar and welcome in new recruits Zitina Aokuso, Jess McDowell-White, Gemma Potter and more.

“We recognise that Dallas has been presented with an incredible opportunity that aligns with her career aspirations. She will be greatly missed," Parham-Ammar said in the club's media release.

"I enjoyed watching her grow as a leader last season, and we are looking forward to working together again soon. We wish her luck as she embarks on her journey to the States, leaving with our full support.”

Loughridge's departure leaves a hole for Adelaide to fill just three months out from the start of the 2026-27 season.

McDowell-White is capable of moving into the starting role after a breakout season of her own at the Sydney Flames last year but the Lightning also have import spots up their sleeve to fill the role left by one of the league's brightest rising talents.

Adelaide also announced the signing of South Australian product Elissa Brett, who played for the Geelong Venom last season, this week.