Two Aussie Basketball Stars Drafted to WNBA

Two young Australian basketball players are heading to the big leagues after being selected in the 2026 WNBA draft.

Saffron Shiels, a 20-year-old guard from the Townsville Fire, was picked 26th overall by the Toronto Tempo. She'll reunite with Sandy Brondello, who coaches both the Tempo and Australia's national Opals team.

The selection comes after Shiels helped lead Townsville to a championship win last season. She's already represented Australia at both senior and junior levels, bringing valuable international experience to her new team.

Manuela Puoch, just 19 years old, went 41st overall to the New York Liberty. The Southside Melbourne Flyers forward had a breakout season and helped Australia win silver at the 2025 FIBA U19 Women's World Cup.

Puoch's selection is extra special for her family. Her sister Nyadiew was picked up by the Portland Fire just 10 days earlier in the league's expansion draft.

The Ripple Effect

Australia is becoming a powerhouse in women's basketball, and these selections prove it. The Tempo now has three Australians on their roster, while the Liberty will feature multiple Aussie players including Bec Allan, who signed a massive $494,000 deal.

This growing presence means young Australian girls can see a clear path from local leagues to the world stage. The WNBL has become a proven pipeline for developing elite talent that can compete at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Wings used the first overall pick to select Azzi Fudd from UConn, pairing her with last year's top pick Paige Bueckers in what promises to be an exciting partnership.

Two young women from down under are about to show the world what Australian basketball can do.