Australian basketball sensation Nyadiew Puoch has taken another major leap in her fast‑rising career, selected by the Portland Fire in the WNBA expansion draft after a standout season with the UC Capitals in the WNBL.
Puoch, 21, emerged as one of the league’s brightest young talents last season, averaging 11.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 steals as Canberra narrowly missed the finals. Her most electrifying moment came in January when she drained a half‑court buzzer beater to seal a 77–74 win over the Perth Lynx a highlight that instantly went viral.
Chosen 16th overall, Puoch now joins Portland’s 12‑player roster, adding another milestone to her résumé after being drafted by the Atlanta Dream in 2024. She opted to delay her rookie WNBA season to continue developing in Australia a decision that appears to have paid off.
She won’t be the only Australian in Portland colours. Fellow Opal Chloe Bibby was selected with the 11th pick after stints with Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever and the Golden State Valkyries.
Australian influence is also strong at the WNBA’s other expansion club, the Toronto Tempo, coached by two‑time WNBA champion Sandy Brondello. Brondello used pick 21 to secure Kristy Wallace, one of her Olympic bronze‑medal Opals.
Puoch’s rise from promising local talent to WNBA draftee underscores the growing impact of Australian players on the global stage and Portland fans may soon discover why she’s considered one of the country’s most exciting prospects.
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