At just 21 years of age, Bendigo Spirit’s Isobel Borlase has written her name into the history books of Australian basketball, claiming the Suzy Batkovic Medal as the 2025–26 WNBL Most Valuable Player in a commanding fashion.
On Monday night, Borlase received her award from none other than basketball icon Lauren Jackson, as the WNBL’s brightest stars gathered to celebrate the season’s top performers. The young sensation polled a remarkable 99 votes, finishing 41 votes clear of runner-up Anneli Maley of Perth Lynx.
This season’s MVP race was anything but close — Borlase left no doubt as to who was the league’s standout.
A Star Ascends: Borlase’s Breakthrough Campaign
After three formative years with the Adelaide Lightning, Borlase made the bold decision to join the reigning champions, Bendigo Spirit, ahead of the WNBL26 season. That move has proven to be transformative — both for her individual game and for Bendigo’s championship hopes.
She averaged an elite 22.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, shooting a sharp 45.6% from the field throughout the season. Her dominance was consistent, but it was in Round 15 that Borlase truly etched her legacy. In a breathtaking performance against the Southside Melbourne Flyers, she dropped 42 points, becoming only the 11th player in WNBL history to cross the 42-point mark in a single game — and the first since Penny Taylor in 2002 to do so.
Her meteoric rise and consistency drew high praise across the league.
“Isobel has set the benchmark for excellence in WNBL26,” said WNBL General Manager Christy Sager.
“Her consistency, competitiveness, and ability to lift her team in key moments have been outstanding. She represents everything this award stands for and continues to inspire the next generation of players.”
Rising Through the Ranks: From Adelaide to Atlanta
Borlase’s rapid development hasn’t gone unnoticed internationally either. Earlier in 2024, she was selected with Pick 20 in the WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream. She also played a crucial role in the Australian Opals’ bronze medal-winning campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, proving her talent extends far beyond domestic competition.
Her maturity and composure, coupled with a fearless attacking style, have drawn comparisons to legends like Lauren Jackson and Penny Taylor, both of whom claimed MVP titles before turning 22.
Now, Borlase turns her attention to the WNBL finals, where her third-seeded Spirit will take on Perth Lynx in a best-of-three semi-final. The victor will face either the Townsville Fire or Southside Melbourne Flyers in the grand final.
Kennedy Kereama Named Coach of the Year
It wasn’t just the players who were celebrated on the night. Bendigo Spirit head coach Kennedy Kereama was awarded Coach of the Year, recognizing his leadership in molding a largely new roster into one of the league’s most cohesive units.
“Kennedy’s impact this season has been exceptional,” said Sager.
“To bring together a largely new group and turn them into one of the most consistent and competitive teams in the league is a remarkable achievement. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment are to be commended.”
Other Major Award Winners
Robyn Maher Defensive Player of the Year:
Han Xu (Perth Lynx) — The towering import was a defensive wall all season, anchoring the Lynx at both ends of the floor.Betty Watson Breakout Player of the Year:
Dallas Loughridge (Adelaide Lightning) — Emerging as one of the league’s top young guards, Loughridge made a massive leap in both confidence and output.Sixth Woman of the Year:
Lucy Olsen (Townsville Fire) — Consistent impact off the bench earned Olsen top honours as the league’s best reserve.Fans MVP:
Anneli Maley (Perth Lynx) — A fan favourite and perennial standout, Maley’s energetic style resonated strongly with supporters across Australia.Golden Hands:
Courtney Woods (Townsville Fire) — Her ball-handling, decision-making, and passing vision earned her the league’s top efficiency-based honour.Referee of the Year:
Daniel Battye — Celebrated for his professionalism and fairness throughout the season.Community Award:
Nya Lok (Southside Melbourne Flyers) — Recognized for her off-court contributions and community engagement.
All-WNBL Teams Revealed
First Team All-WNBL:
Isobel Borlase (Bendigo Spirit)
Mackenzie Holmes (Geelong Venom)
Anneli Maley (Perth Lynx)
Ally Wilson (Perth Lynx)
Courtney Woods (Townsville Fire)
Second Team All-WNBL:
Kelsey Griffin (Bendigo Spirit)
Cayla George (Southside Melbourne Flyers)
Alex Ciabattoni (Perth Lynx)
Han Xu (Perth Lynx)
Miela Sowah (Townsville Fire)
A Night to Remember for Bendigo
With both the league’s MVP and Coach of the Year coming from Bendigo Spirit, it’s clear the team has established itself as a powerhouse once again. As the WNBL26 season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on Borlase and the Spirit as they look to carry their regular season dominance into the finals.
From a breakout superstar to veteran leadership and team chemistry, Bendigo has the tools — and now, the accolades — to finish the job.