Alanna Smith Australian Olympic Committee

Alanna Smith: News, Stats & Updates On The WNBA Star

Alanna Smith Australian Olympic Committee

By  Ernest Goyette

Is Alanna Smith, the Australian basketball star, truly having a career-defining moment? The recent successes and resilience shown by Smith, from her Olympic triumphs to her impactful performances in the WNBA, solidify her as a force to be reckoned with in the world of women's basketball.

Alanna Smith's journey in professional basketball is a compelling narrative of skill, perseverance, and international acclaim. Born in Hobart, Tasmania, on September 10, 1996, Smith has risen through the ranks to become a prominent figure in both the WNBA and the Australian national team. Her presence on the court is marked by a combination of athleticism, strategic thinking, and an undeniable competitive spirit. From her days at Stanford University to her current role with the Minnesota Lynx, Smith consistently demonstrates the qualities of a true athlete.

Category Details
Full Name Alanna Smith
Date of Birth September 10, 1996
Place of Birth Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Height 6'4" (193 cm)
Position Forward
College Stanford University
Current Team Minnesota Lynx (WNBA), Australian National Team
Professional Career Highlights 2017 Asia Cup Silver Medalist, 2018 World Cup Silver Medalist, 2024 Olympic Bronze Medalist
Previous Teams Shandong Sports Lottery (WCBA), Phoenix Mercury
Draft 2019 WNBA Draft, Round 1, Pick 8
Education Completed a Master's degree in psychology
Reference ESPN Player Profile

The 2024 season has been particularly significant for Smith. Her participation in the Olympics, where she helped the Australian Opals secure their first Olympic medal in over a decade, is a testament to her skill and dedication. The impact of her performances extends beyond individual achievements, contributing significantly to team dynamics and strategic plays. Her ability to perform under pressure, paired with her strong court awareness, makes her a valuable asset to any team she plays for.

Smith's WNBA career has seen her play with teams like the Phoenix Mercury and now the Minnesota Lynx. She was drafted in 2019, and since then, she has been consistently developing, refining her skills and establishing herself as a key player. Her time with the Lynx has been particularly noteworthy, finding a perfect spot to shine in Minnesota and showcasing her talent. The Lynx's reliance on her capabilities is a clear indication of her growing influence in the league.

Throughout her career, Smith has also gained valuable experience playing internationally. She spent time playing in Australia and also played for the Shandong Sports Lottery in the Chinese WCBA. These international experiences have enriched her game, offering diverse exposure and increasing her adaptability. Her performances reflect a blend of skills acquired from varied environments, which in turn have contributed to her versatile playing style.

Recent events underscore the demanding nature of professional basketball. During a game against the New York Liberty in the WNBA Finals at the Barclays Center on October 20, 2024, Smith experienced a back injury after a collision with Jonquel Jones. This unfortunate incident forced her to leave the game temporarily, prompting concern among fans and teammates. However, the determination that defines Smith was evident, as she returned to the lineup, demonstrating her resilience and commitment to her team. The announcement that Alanna Smith (back) was questionable to return to the game highlighted the challenges that professional athletes face, and her return underscored her commitment to competing.

Smith's career, as reflected in statistics and game analyses, exhibits continuous development. Per-game stats for the 2024 WNBA season on ESPN, along with full career WNBA stats, provide concrete measures of her contributions. These stats include points, rebounds, and assists, which collectively provide a comprehensive picture of her impact on the game. From her early days at Stanford to her current role in the WNBA, the numbers tell a story of improvement and increasing influence.

Smith's versatility is demonstrated in her ability to play multiple positions. Her coaches and teammates often comment on her impact, highlighting her unique blend of skills. Her capacity to excel as a forward, along with her contributions on both offense and defense, establishes her as a crucial player.

Beyond the court, Smiths dedication extends to her academic pursuits. While competing at the highest level, she pursued a masters degree in psychology, successfully balancing athletics and academics. This commitment reflects a strong character, where her goals are not limited to athletic achievements. The completion of her statistics class just before a pivotal Lynx game highlights her dual dedication.

The long-term view for Smith looks promising. With key players like Kayla McBride, Napheesa Collier, and Courtney Williams signed through 2025, the Lynx is poised to make continued runs for titles. Her continued presence in the WNBA suggests that she will continue to be an integral piece of her team's success.

Smith is an Australian professional basketball player currently playing for the Minnesota Lynx of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is known for her versatile playing style, strong offensive skills, and defensive abilities. Her journey from college basketball at Stanford University to the WNBA, and representing Australia, demonstrates both her skill and her commitment to basketball. Smith's career reflects a dedicated athlete consistently pushing boundaries. Whether it's her play in the WNBA or her role in the Australian national team, Alanna Smith's impact is felt globally, cementing her position as one of the prominent figures in women's basketball.

Alanna Smith Australian Olympic Committee
Alanna Smith Australian Olympic Committee

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Get to know Alanna Smith Adelaide Lightning

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Alanna Smith Chicago Sky forward's journey to making impact in WNBA

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