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WNBA Draft: Alanna Smith Signs Supermax, Four Players Selected

4/14/2026

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Summary

Smith Secures Supermax

Alanna Smith signed a three-year supermax deal with the Dallas Wings after a 2025 season.
Ezi Magbegor earned a supermax contract, and Sami Whitcomb earned a guaranteed contract.
Four players were drafted: Saffron Shiels and Charlise Dunn to Toronto Tempo, Amelia Hassett to LA Sparks, and Manuela Puoch to New York Liberty.
Shiels expressed excitement about her opportunity and Puoch celebrated her selection after watching the draft with family.

Summary

Shiels Joins Tempo

Saffron Shiels was selected 26th overall by the Toronto Tempo.
She previously excelled with the U18 Gems at the FIBA U18 Asia Cup in 2024.
The Toronto Tempo is an expansion franchise coached by Sandy Brondello, who has a successful history with the Opals and in the WNBA.
This connection may benefit Shiels as she transitions to the professional level.

History

Historical Context

The 2024 FIBA U18 Asia Cup, held in Amman, Jordan, from September 2-9, saw Australia’s U18 Gems claim their second championship by defeating New Zealand 96-33. This tournament not only showcased emerging talent like Saffron Shiels, drafted 26th overall by the Toronto Tempo, but also emphasized the growing opportunities for women's basketball in Australia under the guidance of coach Sandy Brondello.

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Smith Secures Supermax

Alanna Smith signed a three-year supermax deal with the Dallas Wings after a 2025 season.
Ezi Magbegor earned a supermax contract, and Sami Whitcomb earned a guaranteed contract.
Four players were drafted: Saffron Shiels and Charlise Dunn to Toronto Tempo, Amelia Hassett to LA Sparks, and Manuela Puoch to New York Liberty.
Shiels expressed excitement about her opportunity and Puoch celebrated her selection after watching the draft with family.

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