By John “Woods” Armwood III
Breaking Misconceptions
When Minnesota Lynx forward Alanna Smith takes the floor, she’s not just representing herself or her team — she’s carrying a piece of Australia with her. For years, international players have been battling stereotypes about their game, often compared unfavorably to the fast-paced, isolation-heavy style of American basketball. Smith wants to set the record straight.
“I think the style has always been like American basketball is very one-on-one-based and then Australian and European is more team-oriented,” Smith explained. “But we have some hoopers coming out that can break people down one-on-one as well. I don’t think people realize that we have really, really talented players, too. So I think that’s one misconception.”
Smith’s presence in the WNBA is proof of that talent. She embodies both the collective, pass-first ethos of international play and the individual creativity demanded by the league’s best.
A Global Game, A Shared Stage
The rise of international stars in the WNBA is impossible to ignore. From Australia to Europe, the level of play has skyrocketed, and Smith has been one of the most vocal in celebrating that growth.
“Basketball is a global game and it’s being played outside of America, and it’s being played well,” she said. “And I think it’s really starting to be recognized here, especially you’re seeing a lot of talent come through the league. It’s well deserved.”
For Smith, this isn’t just about personal pride. It’s about proving that the game belongs to everyone, everywhere.
Australia’s Next Wave
As an Olympian and veteran voice in the game, Smith has watched a new generation of young women rise through the ranks in Australia and beyond. For her, their success is personal — a validation of the sacrifices, the culture, and the commitment that international players bring to the game.
“I’ve always said this to so many people, but like us Australians — and I’ll include the Europeans in there too — but we’re coming. We’re coming,” Smith said with pride. “And you see it, you know, at the Olympics as well, just how competitive it was. So yeah, I’m super proud of those young girls coming through and carrying the torch for the global game as well.”
The Bigger Picture
Smith represents a new era of basketball, where the game is no longer confined to borders or styles. Instead, it’s a shared language, spoken fluently from Sydney to Minneapolis, Madrid to New York. Her message is clear: international players aren’t just catching up — they’re shaping the future of the sport.
For Alanna Smith, every game with the Lynx is more than minutes, points, or stats. It’s a chance to break misconceptions, elevate global talent, and carry the torch forward — not just for Australia, but for women’s basketball everywhere.