WNBL's Most Dominant Players: Abby Bishop

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basketball.com.au

WNBL's Most Dominant Players: Abby Bishop

Abby Bishop of the Flyers is interviewed after the win during the round 15 WNBL match between Southside Flyers and Melbourne Boomers at State Basketball Centre, on February 22, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Kelly Defina/Getty Images

Abby Bishop is an Olympic Bronze Medallist and WNBL MVP

2014/15 WNBL League MVP
Olympic bronze medallist at the 2012 London Games
Gold medallist at the 2007 Oceania World Qualifications series

Abby Bishop's versatile skills, leadership, and consistent performance have made her one of the most impactful players in WNBL history.

Abby Bishop, born 29 November 1988, has established herself as a dominant force in Australian women's basketball. Standing at 189 centimetres tall, Bishop's impressive stature and skill set have made her a formidable presence on the court. Her career has spanned multiple teams in the Women's National Basketball League (WNBL), including the Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra Capitals, Dandenong Rangers, and Adelaide Lightning.

Career Snapshot

Bishop's basketball journey began with a scholarship at the Australian Institute of Sport, where she played for their WNBL team in 2005 and 2006. Her professional career took off with the Canberra Capitals in the 2006/2007 season, where she quickly became a key player. Bishop's talents were not confined to the Australian league; she also had stints in the WNBA with the Seattle Storm, winning a championship with the team in 2010, although she did not play in the post-season due to injury.

Abby Bishop of the Flyers shoots during the round 15 WNBL match between Southside Flyers and Melbourne Boomers at State Basketball Centre, on February 22, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Kelly Defina/Getty Images

Playing Style

As a tall forward/centre, Bishop's game is characterised by her versatility and ability to impact both ends of the court. Her offensive repertoire includes a strong inside game and the ability to stretch the floor with her shooting. Defensively, her height and positioning make her a formidable rebounder and shot-blocker. Bishop's career averages of 13.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in the WNBL demonstrate her all-around contributions to her teams.

Why Abby Bishop is on our list

Abby Bishop's inclusion on the list of most dominant players in WNBL history is well-deserved for several reasons. Firstly, her individual accolades, including winning the WNBL League MVP for the 2014/15 season, highlight her exceptional talent and impact on the league. This award recognises her as the standout player in a highly competitive professional league.

Secondly, Bishop's consistency and longevity in the WNBL have been remarkable. From her early days as a teenage prodigy with the AIS to becoming a veteran leader, she has maintained a high level of performance across multiple teams and seasons. Her ability to contribute significantly in scoring, rebounding, and team leadership has made her a valuable asset to every team she's played for.

Abby Bishop of the Flyers drives to the basket under pressure during the round 13 WNBL match between Southside Flyers and Sydney Flames at John Cain Arena, on February 04, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Furthermore, Bishop's international success adds to her legacy. As a member of the Australian national team, she has competed at the highest levels of international basketball. Her bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics and gold medal at the 2007 Oceania World Qualifications series demonstrate her ability to perform on the global stage, representing her country with distinction.

Bishop's impact extends beyond her on-court performance. Her leadership and mentorship of younger players have helped shape the next generation of Australian basketball talent. Additionally, her perseverance through personal challenges, such as taking custody of her niece while maintaining her professional career, showcases her strength of character and dedication to both her family and the sport.

Five Fast Facts

Bishop was featured in the WNBL's 2009 league calendar, highlighting her rising star status early in her career.
In 2013, she took custody of her two-day-old niece, Zala Kate Bishop, demonstrating her commitment to family while continuing her professional career.
Bishop has represented Australia at various levels, including junior national teams and the senior Opals squad.
She was the youngest player on the Australian team during the Good Luck Beijing 2008 tournament, a precursor to the Olympics.
Bishop's versatility is evident in her ability to play both forward and centre positions effectively.

Abby Bishop of the Opals in action during the third match between the Australia and the New Zealand Tall Ferns at Sydney Entertainment Centre on September 11, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. Photo: Mark Nolan/Getty Images

Career Highlights Timeline

2005-2006: Played for the Australian Institute of Sport WNBL team

2006-2010: Joined the Canberra Capitals, establishing herself as a key player in the WNBL

2007: Won gold with the Australian team at the Oceania World Qualifications series

2010: Rookie season in the WNBA with the Seattle Storm, winning a championship (though not playing in post-season due to injury)

2010-2011: Played for the Dandenong Rangers in the WNBL

2011-2012: Joined Adelaide Lightning, averaging 16.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game

2012: Represented Australia at the London Olympics, winning a bronze medal

2014-2015: Won the WNBL League MVP award

2015: Returned to the Seattle Storm in the WNBA after a five-year hiatus

Bishop's career trajectory showcases her growth from a promising young talent to one of the most dominant and respected players in WNBL history. Her combination of individual success, team achievements, and international accolades firmly establishes her place among the league's all-time greats. As she continues to compete at the highest level, Abby Bishop's legacy in Australian basketball and the WNBL continues to grow.