🏀 AWSN Power Player: Meet WNBL’s Rebound and Block Leader Brianna Turner

Brianna was a power player from the beginning. In high school, her exceptional skills quickly caught the attention of college scouts, leading her to play for the prestigious Notre Dame Fighting Irish, where she became a standout forward.

During her collegiate career, Brianna showcased her defensive brilliance, earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors twice and playing a pivotal role in Notre Dame's 2018 NCAA Championship victory. Her shot-blocking ability, tenacity on the boards, and versatility made her one of the most feared defenders in women's college basketball history.

“I was fortunate to play college basketball at the University of Notre Dame under Muffet McGraw. From the guidance of great coaches and the support of my family, I’ve been able to pursue my childhood dream of playing professionally domestically and abroad.”

In 2019, Brianna's journey reached new heights when she was selected 11th overall by the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA Draft. Since then, she has been a consistent force in the league, known for her ability to anchor the defense, run the floor, and contribute on both ends of the court. Her hustle, grit, and leadership make her an indispensable part of the Mercury’s roster.

“My goal every game is a double-double. Though I haven’t achieved it every game, it helps me stay focused.”

Brianna Turner, a formidable 6'3" forward, has significantly contributed significantly to the WNBA and the WNBL. In the WNBA, she has appeared in 185 regular-season games, starting in 34. Over her career, Turner has averaged 4.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 58.3%.

In the WNBL, Turner has been a key player for the Adelaide Lightning. During the 2024–25 season, she has demonstrated her versatility and impact on the court, including a standout performance where she recorded 15 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 blocks in a victory over the Perth Lynx.

AWSN Power Player: Meet WNBL’s Rebound and Block Leader: Brianna Turner

AWSN: Tell us about your early years playing basketball and how you knew it was going to become a career.

Brianna Turner: I started playing young, around the age of 5, at my local YMCA. I began playing on travel teams when I was around 10 years old, and have been playing competitively since. It was always my dream to play professionally. I was fortunate to play college basketball at the University of Notre Dame under Muffet McGraw. With the guidance of great coaches and the support of my family, I’ve been able to pursue my childhood dream of playing professionally domestically and abroad. Additionally, my parents played basketball in college, so they have been influential throughout my basketball career. 

What’s a surprising difference and surprising similarity between playing in the WNBA and WNBL?

A surprising difference between playing in the WNBA and WNBL is that the WNBL plays by FIBA rules, so players are allowed 5 fouls instead of 6, like in the WNBA. A surprising similarity is the popularity of the game and how supportive and enthusiastic the fans are.

What are some downtime hobbies you enjoy that are unique to Australia?

I live really close to the beach, so I enjoy visiting often. I’ve never lived close to water in the U.S.  

What have been some highlights playing for WNBL?

The WNBL is a very competitive league filled with immense talent. My highlight is having the opportunity to compete against such great players.

You’ve dominated in many stat categories for the WNBL, do you approach the season with specific performance goals in mind?

My goal every game is a double-double. Though I haven’t achieved it every game, it helps me stay focused.

What games are you looking forward to in the final stretch of the season?

I’m looking forward to ALL of our remaining games. Each team has unique talent and no team is the same. Every team offers a challenge and I look forward to them all.

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