‘Overwhelmed’: Borlase claims historic WNBL MVP gong

Bendigo Spirit star Isobel Borlase has etched her name into WNBL history, claiming the league’s Most Valuable Player award after a season that electrified basketball fans across the region.

The 21-year-old guard was honoured at the WNBL Awards Night in Sydney on Monday, becoming the youngest MVP winner in more than a decade and reinforcing her status as one of Australian basketball’s brightest talents.

Borlase played a pivotal role in leading the Spirit to the finals, producing multiple game-defining performances and finishing the season as the competition’s most prolific scorer.

She averaged 22.9 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game, while converting an outstanding nine out of every 10 free throws she attempted.

Speaking after receiving the award, Borlase said the moment was overwhelming and reflected on the impact Bendigo had on her career.

“I’m overwhelmed. I never thought I’d be standing up here.”

“I wouldn’t have thought of Bendigo unless I came to it. I’m so grateful that I did.”

Her MVP win places her alongside some of the game’s greatest names, including Opals legends Lauren Jackson and Penny Taylor, who also claimed the honour at a young age.

One of Borlase’s standout performances came on January 21, when she poured in 42 points against the Southside Melbourne Flyers, becoming just the 11th player in WNBL history to score 42 or more in a single game.

Despite her individual success, Borlase was quick to praise Spirit captain Kelsey Griffin, who led the team through a challenging season marked by injuries and absences.

“KG is the real MVP on our team.”

“What she’s brought to this sport, this league, at training, I don’t give her enough credit.”

Spirit coach Kennedy Kereama was also recognised, taking home Coach of the Year honours after guiding Bendigo to a 16–7 record and third place on the ladder.

With Borlase already drafted by the Atlanta Dream, her MVP season further strengthens her case for a WNBA debut later this year, while Bendigo fans prepare for the Spirit’s semi-final clash against the Perth Lynx this weekend.