Club legend returns for new era
Adelaide Lightning have kicked off their Free Agency with a major statement, announcing the re-signing of Australian basketball icon Steph Talbot.
Set to embark on her 11th season with the club, Talbot’s return is a massive boost for what is set to be a re-energised Lightning squad. One of the WNBL’s most decorated and consistent stars, Talbot will spearhead a revamped Adelaide under new Head Coach Kerryn Mitchell.
Fresh off another strong campaign, Talbot averaged 12.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game in 2024/25, solidifying her role as Adelaide’s on-court leader and all-around weapon. Despite a 7-14 finish that saw the Lightning fall one game short of the finals, the foundation is now set for a fierce return.
A stalwart of the Opals, Talbot’s international resume is nothing short of elite. A three-time Olympian (2016, ‘20, ‘24), World Cup silver and bronze medallist, 2020 WNBL MVP, and a multi WNBL First Team selection, she remains one of the most respected and impactful players in Australian basketball.
Her talents continue to shine on the global stage, currently suiting up for the WNBA’s newest
expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries, where she averaged 13.1 minutes across her first seven games.
Selected in the inaugural expansion draft, the 30-year-old brings veteran leadership and trademark versatility to every team she represents.
Mitchell praised Talbot’s form, saying there is no one better to lead the Lightning back to Championship success.
“Steph is one of the best players in Australia and we cannot wait to have her back in Lightning colours,” Mitchell said.
“She is the best defender in the league with her fearless demeanour, her elite transition efficiency, three-ball, and she can read the game like no other.”
“Our vision is to bring the Lightning’s prowess back to the top of the League as we were in the 90s. With three Olympics under her belt and some of the best conditioning in the WNBL – who better than Talbot to set our new culture and lead the club to success?”
Talbot and Mitchell are joined alongside newly appointed special advisor Tess Madgen and interim General Manager Bernadette Dodd.