Why Borlase chose Bendigo
In the first major move of the WNBL 2025/26 Free Agency period, Opal star Isobel Borlase will now join the defending Champions Bendigo Spirit.
After making the WNBL First-Team for the Adelaide Lightning last season, the 20-year-old Olympian was one of the hottest free agents on the market.
With the opportunity to truly lead Bendigo’s offence this season, the decision to join the defending champions was a no-brainer.
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In an interview with ESPN’s Megan Hustwaite, Borlase explained that a large part of the move was motivated by her drive to finally crack the WNBA.
“My goal is developing my game and learning more about different reads to make and what the defences are doing. I think I have played off a lot of instinct, and that’s natural and I think I’m good at that,” Borlase said.
“But now, if I’m wanting to make the next step to WNBA, playing more time for the Opals, then I’ve got to learn how to make reads and distribute the ball better.”
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In reaction to the signing, five-time WNBL champion and Hall of Famer Michele Timms explained what this means for Borlase and Bendigo.
“But I was surprised, to be honest… this sort of came out of left field,” Timms told WNBL Media.
“It’s a massive, massive move for Borlase. They’ve a good coach there in Kennedy (Kereama), and if Kelsey Griffin stays, there’s no greater teacher of the game as a player. It’d be great for her (Borlase) to continue to learn from Kelsey.”
The Phoenix Mercury legend explained that someone so young and talented entering a roster that can be shaped around her, this Bendigo side will be a perfect stepping stone in Borlase’s career.
Having been a point guard of the Opals, Timms knows how important Borlase will be to the Spirit’s overall offence. With 11 more spots to officially fill, she cannot wait to see how it all shakes out.
“Izzy has obviously seen something in Bendigo. It’s going to be exciting, there’s going to be a lot of movement in this free agency,” she said.
“It’s going to be an interesting watch.”
Stay up-to-date with all the latest news via the WNBL social media pages and the Roster Tracker here.
Read the full interview on ESPN here: Borlase leaves Lightning, signs with Bendigo Spirit