28
Oct
4 min read
Aussies in the WNBA: Stephanie Talbot
Steph Talbot of the Lighting poses for a photo during the 2022-23 WNBL Season Launch at The Prince Hotel on October 26, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Jonathan DiMaggio/Getty Images
Stephanie Talbot plays for the LA Sparks in the WNBA
- Olympic bronze medallist at Paris 2024
- WNBL MVP in 2020
- WNBA Commissioner's Cup champion with Seattle Storm in 2021
Stephanie Talbot is an Australian basketball player known for her versatility, international success, and impact in both the WNBA and WNBL.
Key Details
Name: Stephanie Talbot
Age: 30
Team(s): Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA), Adelaide Lightning (WNBL)
Position: Forward
Size: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
Weight: 192 lb (87 kg)
Playing style
Stephanie Talbot is a versatile forward who excels on both ends of the court. Her 6'2" frame allows her to defend multiple positions effectively, while her shooting touch and ball-handling skills make her a threat on offence. Talbot's basketball IQ and court vision enable her to make smart decisions with the ball, whether it's finding open teammates or creating her own shot.
One of Talbot's greatest strengths is her three-point shooting ability. She has consistently improved her accuracy from beyond the arc throughout her career, making her a valuable floor-spacer for her teams. This skill, combined with her rebounding prowess and defensive intensity, makes her a valuable asset in both the WNBA and international competitions.
Career
Talbot's professional career began in the WNBL with the Adelaide Lightning in 2011 at just 17 years old. She quickly made an impact, winning the league's Rookie of the Year award in 2013. Her impressive performances in Australia caught the attention of WNBA scouts, leading to her selection by the Phoenix Mercury in the 2014 WNBA Draft.
After continuing to develop her game in Australia and Europe, Talbot made her WNBA debut with the Mercury in 2017. She spent two seasons with Phoenix before being traded to the Minnesota Lynx in 2019. Talbot's versatility and team-first approach made her a valuable rotation player, contributing in various roles as needed.
In 2021, Talbot joined the Seattle Storm, where she played a key role in their Commissioner's Cup victory. Her time with the Storm further solidified her reputation as a reliable contributor on a championship-calibre team. Following her stint in Seattle, Talbot signed with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2023, although an ACL injury forced her to miss that season.
Internationally, Talbot has been a cornerstone of the Australian national team. She has represented the Opals at multiple major tournaments, including the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games, as well as the 2018 and 2022 FIBA World Cups. Her contributions to the national team were rewarded with a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, further cementing her status as one of Australia's top basketball talents.
Five Fast Facts
- Talbot won the WNBL MVP award in 2020 while playing for the Adelaide Lightning.
- She was named to the All-Star Five at the 2013 FIBA Under-19 World Championship.
- Talbot has played professionally in Australia, Poland, France, and the United States.
- She was part of the Australian team that won gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
- Talbot holds the distinction of being both a WNBA Commissioner's Cup champion and an Olympic medallist.
Career Highlights Timeline
2011: Debuts in the WNBL with Adelaide Lightning at age 17
2013: Wins WNBL Rookie of the Year award
2014: Selected 33rd overall in the WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury
2017: Makes WNBA debut with the Phoenix Mercury
2019: Traded to the Minnesota Lynx
2020: Wins WNBL MVP award with Adelaide Lightning
2021: Wins WNBA Commissioner's Cup with Seattle Storm
2024: Wins Olympic bronze medal with Australian Opals in Paris
Stephanie Talbot's journey from WNBL rookie to Olympic medallist and WNBA veteran exemplifies the growth of Australian basketball on the world stage. Her versatility, shooting prowess, and defensive skills have made her a valuable asset to every team she's played for, both domestically and internationally.
As Talbot continues her career with the Los Angeles Sparks and the Australian national team, she remains a role model for aspiring basketball players in Australia. Her success story serves as inspiration for the next generation of Aussies aiming to make their mark in the world's top basketball leagues, while also contributing to the continued success of the Opals on the international stage.
