Minnesota Lynx forward Alanna Smith is leading the Australian national team through the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, anchoring the Opals’ frontline alongside fellow WNBA standout Ezi Magbegor, according to reporting by the Star Tribune and NewsBreak. Smith posted 18 points, 10 rebounds, a +15 plus/minus, and an 18 efficiency rating during Australia’s nervy victory over Turkey.
Alanna Smith Anchors Australia in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers
Team Australia secured its fourth win of the FIBA World Cup qualifying campaign behind Smith’s dominant play in the paint and on the glass, as reported by NewsBreak. The Opals faced a tough challenge from the Turkish side, which threatened to erase the Australian lead before a decisive 7-0 run in the third quarter sealed the victory. Smith’s defensive presence mirrored the form that earned her co-Defensive Player of the Year honors alongside A’ja Wilson during the 2025 WNBA season under Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, making her only the second Australian player to claim the individual award.
Transition to the Unrivalled League With Mist BC
Beyond international competition, Smith carried her momentum into the second edition of the Unrivalled league as a shrewd addition to Breanna Stewart’s Mist BC team, according to NewsBreak. Smith reached double digits in scoring during six regular-season games. During the semifinal matchup against Breeze BC, she contributed 11 points by shooting 3-of-3 from beyond the arc, alongside six rebounds, five assists, and two steals to help secure Mist BC’s spot in the clutch matchup.
WNBA International Surge and Team USA Context
The Minnesota Lynx are closely watching their roster’s international contributions as the global game continues to expand ahead of the main FIBA World Cup event in Germany, according to the Star Tribune. While Team USA maintained its unbeaten run in the qualifiers to give its young roster international experience, international stars like Smith continue to shoulder heavy leadership responsibilities for their respective national federations during the qualifying window.
Related reading