Get ready for an exciting twist in the world of basketball! The upcoming World Cup Qualifiers are about to shine a spotlight on a potential game-changer for the Tempo. But here's the catch: it's all about timing.
These qualifiers, set to unfold in Wuhan, Lyon-Villeurbanne, San Juan, and Istanbul from March 11-17, could provide the Tempo with an invaluable opportunity to scout their ideal expansion draft pick. Imagine having a front-row seat to witness the talent of Isobel Borlase, a rising star in the making.
The Expansion Draft: A Game of Strategy
If the draft for the Tempo and Fire hasn't concluded by then, the Istanbul tournament becomes a crucial stage for Borlase to showcase her skills. And if Sandy Brondello, the national team's coach since 2017, is lucky, she might even get to guide one of her newest players.
Isobel Borlase: A Rising Star
Borlase, a 21-year-old phenom, has already made her mark in the WNBL, leading the league in scoring with an impressive 22.8 points per game. That's more than what WNBA players Mackenzie Holmes and Sania Feagin have managed. And her stats don't stop there: she's also averaging 6.6 rebounds, 3.83 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Talk about a well-rounded player!
Her impact extends beyond the regular season. In the Bendigo Spirit's semi-final game against the Perth Lynx, Borlase put up an impressive 22 points, grabbed 16 rebounds, dished out 7 assists, and added a steal to her tally. This young talent could be the X-factor for any expansion team, especially one with developmental minutes up for grabs.
Australia's National Team: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Australia's national team is a powerhouse, boasting an impressive lineup of WNBA players. Ezi Magbegor, Alanna Smith, Sami Whitcomb, Steph Talbot, Jade Melbourne, and Chloe Bibby will all don the green and gold in Istanbul. Borlase, the youngest on the roster, will be an exciting addition to this already formidable team.
Australia's path to the top won't be easy. They'll face off against Hungary, Turkey, Argentina, Canada, and Japan. Hungary's national team features Dorka Juhasz and Kathryn Westbeld, with Juhasz under contract with the Lynx and Westbeld making her WNBA debut with the Mercury. As for Turkey and Canada, their rosters are yet to be unveiled, but Canada is expected to bring a strong contingent of WNBA talent, including veterans Kia Nurse and Bridget Carleton, and rising stars Laeticia Amihere and Aaliyah Edwards.
Borlase has already faced off against some of these teams. In the Paris Olympics two years ago, she played almost nine minutes against Canada. And in the semi-final game against Team USA, she upped her game, playing 14 minutes and contributing 11 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist in a tough 64-85 loss.
And this is the part most people miss...
The World Cup Qualifiers could be a make-or-break moment for the Tempo's expansion draft strategy. Will they secure Borlase, or will she remain with the Atlanta Dream? The answer lies in the timing of the draft and the performance of this talented young player on the global stage. It's a fascinating narrative that will keep basketball enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
So, what do you think? Will the Tempo make the right move? And how will Borlase's performance impact her future in the WNBA? Let's discuss in the comments!
