Sydney Flames sign NBL1 superstar Unique Thompson
Feature image via: Judd Green
American forward and NBL1 superstar Unique Thompson has signed with the Sydney Flames for the upcoming WNBL26 season.
Thompson began her career with the Auburn Tigers program in college, playing four seasons and being named to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) First-team and Second-team in 2020 and 2021, respectively.
Thompson began her professional career in Russia, playing a full season for Sparta&K in the EuroLeague – where she caught the attention of WNBL legend Lauren Jackson.
The 6’3” forward burst onto the Australian basketball scene in 2022. Immediately following her Russia campaign, Thompson joined Jackson mid-season on the NBL1 East’s Albury-Wodonga Bandits – where she became a key piece to the Bandits’ inaugural Championship, being named to the All-Star Five and Finals MVP as well as the NBL1 National Finals All-Star Five.
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She then returned to Russia with a new team, Nadazhda, for back-to-back seasons. Eventually returning to the Bandits for the 2024 campaign, where she again was named to the All-Star Five and helped the Bandits to a 20-0 regular season record.
Playing with Nadazhda once again this past summer, Thompson made the move to the Mackay Meteorettes for the 2025 NBL1 North season, where she’s currently averaging 26.6 points, 16.6 rebounds, 1.8 assists and a block per game for the 9-4 title-contender.
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Having seen what she can do at the NBL1 level, Sydney Flames Head Coach Guy Molloy believes Thompson’s rebounding and size will be a perfect fit for his WNBL26 squad.
“I’m really excited to add someone of Unique’s talent and motor to our squad,” said Molloy.
“She does all the little things well and so consistency, which is exactly what all coaches love – from running the court hard, to being a rim presence that allows rolls well out of the pick and roll, to being a great rebounder.
“She’s one of those players that makes all around her better, and all her former teammates will attest to that, so I know she’s going to be a great asset to our club, on and off the court.”
Having played against WNBL talents in the NBL1 North and East, Thompson is excited to finally get an opportunity to do it on the biggest stage.
“To finally get a chance in the WNBL is very exciting for me,” Thompson said.
“Ever since I first arrived in Australia to play with Albury, the WNBL has been on my radar, but hasn’t come to fruition due to my Russian commitments.
“I’ve loved all my time in Australia to date, especially around Sydney, and have only heard positive things about the Flames. I can’t wait to be a part of the club and intend to make the most of this opportunity.”
Thompson joins Emma Clarke, Lauren Nicholson, Carla Pitman, Shaneice Swain, Agnes Emma-Nnopu, Grace Berger, Keely Froling and Lara McSpadden on the Flames’ roster next season.
Stay up-to-date with all the latest signings via the WNBL Roster Tracker here.