Aussie Izzy Borlase Helps Atlanta Dream Lead WNBA Finals

Australian basketball player Izzy Borlase is proving she belongs on the world's biggest stage, helping the Atlanta Dream take a commanding 2-1 lead in the WNBA Finals with a dominant 97-71 victory over the Golden State Valkyries.

The Aussie guard played 26 minutes and scored 12 points, including a three-pointer, while adding five rebounds, two assists, and a block. Her solid performance came alongside star Angel Reese, who dominated with 21 points and 12 rebounds in front of a sold-out crowd of more than 17,000 fans.

Borlase's contributions are part of a historic moment for the Dream, who secured their first-ever Finals victories in Games 2 and 3. The team has transformed their season into something special, and the energy is electric.

"It feels good when you're in the finals," Reese said after the game. "I put the work in for this moment, and I'm just happy I could lead the team to a win."

The Dream highlighted one of Borlase's impressive drives to the basket on social media, celebrating the Australian's impact. Meanwhile, fellow Aussie Opals star Miela Sowah watches from the Valkyries bench as a development player, witnessing her compatriot shine.

Why This Inspires

Borlase's journey represents the growing global reach of women's basketball and the rising profile of Australian athletes on the world stage. The WNBA Finals are breaking records, with Game 1 drawing 2.1 million viewers, the most ever for a Finals opener.

The Dream had to move their home games from Gateway Center Arena to the Atlanta Hawks' much larger venue to accommodate the massive fan interest. That's 17,000 fans showing up to support women's basketball, a testament to how far the sport has come.

"Protect home court," said Rhyne Howard, who added 16 points. "We fought for this arena so we had to protect it."

Game 4 takes place Sunday in Atlanta, where the Dream will try to move within one win of their first championship with their Australian star continuing to make her mark.