Miners star recommits to Spirit for WNBL title defence

A KEY cog in Bendigo Spirit’s rise to WNBL champions last season, Ballarat Miners NBL1 star Abbey Wehrung has recommitted for the club’s title defence.

Wehrung, who had an outstanding personal season in 2024-25, being named as the league’s Sixth Woman of the Year, adds to an exciting roster for the Spirit, as the club builds towards defending their championship.

Raised in Korweinguboora – about 35 minutes out of Ballarat – Wehrung performed as a valuable scoring threat in the championship-winning season, showcasing her immense skill throughout the finals run.

She averaged 7.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists and .5 steals in 23.5 minutes of game time in her crucial role off the bench.

It followed a stellar 2024 year in the National Basketball League 1 competition, in which she was voted the South Conference’s defensive player of the year, as well as being named the Ballarat Miners’ defensive player of the year.

Again playing for the Miners this season, the homegrown talent is averaging 17.82 points per game (second only to import Kaleena Lewis at 22.2ppg), 5.82 rebounds, 1.2 assists and 1.64 steals.

Wehrung’s composure in high-pressure moments and defensive prowess has been continually showcased.

Her aggressive and tireless presence on the court continually proves her imperative position with the Spirit.

The 29-year-old guard also has a significant amount of national representation under her belt, having worn the green and gold on several occasions, most recently as a part of the 2021 Australian Opals team that took home the bronze medal at the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup.

In her second stint with the Spirit, Wehrung is thrilled to remain with the club for another season.

“I’m super excited to be back with the Spirit for another season. Last season was obviously incredible and I’m excited to see what we can do this year,” she said.

“I love this club, I love this team, I love the community, and I love that I can play professionally so close to home.

“It was a no brainer to re-sign – it’s such a special time to be playing at the Spirit.”

Wehrung initially signed with the Spirit in 2018, before making the move to Adelaide Lightning for the 2020 and 2021-22 seasons.

She rejoined the Spirit in time for the 2022-23 season.

Spirit general manager Dan Jackson shared his excitement on Wehrung’s re-signing.

“We are thrilled that Abbey chose to continue her career with Bendigo Spirit,” he said.

“She is a hugely respected, popular teammate and member of our community, whose shooting, defence and professionalism will continue to be assets for our club.”

Wehrung joins championship-winning skipper Kelsey Griffin, Isobel Borlase, Olivia Pollerd, Kelsey Rees and Casey Samuels as players announced on the Spirit roster for this season.