Alanna Smith is not just a name in women’s basketball — she’s a rising force making waves across the WNBA and international courts alike. Born on September 10, 1996, in Australia, Alanna has carved out a career that spans continents, leagues, and unforgettable performances. From her early days playing for Stanford University to becoming a key player for the Minnesota Lynx, her journey reflects dedication, resilience, and elite-level talent. In this post, we’ll dive into her career, personal life, and what makes her one of the most exciting athletes to follow today.

Smith’s career has been anything but ordinary. She’s played for four different WNBA teams over seven seasons, including the Phoenix Mercury and Minnesota Lynx, and has appeared in 37 games across two seasons with Phoenix alone. Her versatility on the court and her ability to rise under pressure have made her a go-to player in high-stakes matchups. Whether it’s shutting down star centers like Jonquel Jones or delivering career-high performances, Alanna consistently proves her value as a dynamic forward.

Off the court, the name Alanna itself carries a sense of history and meaning — often associated with strength, beauty, and nobility. So it’s no surprise that someone with that name would go on to make such a significant impact in the world of sports. Whether you’re a die-hard WNBA fan or just discovering her story, there’s a lot to learn about Alanna Smith — and plenty of reasons to keep up with her journey.

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Table of Contents

• Alanna Smith Biography
• WNBA Career and Achievements
• International Play and Olympic Journey
• Alanna Smith: Personal Life and Name Meaning
• FAQs About Alanna Smith

Alanna Smith Biography

Alanna Simone Smith’s journey to the WNBA started in Australia, where she developed her skills on the court before heading to the United States for college basketball. Playing for Stanford University, she quickly became a standout player known for her defensive presence, rebounding ability, and offensive versatility. Her time at Stanford laid the foundation for her professional career, eventually leading her to the WNBA draft.

WNBA Career and Achievements

Smith was selected in the second round of the 2018 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings but was traded to the Phoenix Mercury before the season began. Her rookie year set the stage for what would become a solid career in the league. By her second season, she was already making headlines with 19 starts under her belt and a growing reputation for her defensive skills and clutch performances.

Over the years, Alanna has played for four WNBA teams, including the Mercury and the Minnesota Lynx. She’s appeared in 37 total games across two seasons with Phoenix, and her versatility on both ends of the court has made her a valuable asset to every team she’s played for. Known for her ability to guard multiple positions, Alanna is often tasked with slowing down some of the league’s top offensive threats — and she usually delivers.

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In 2023, playing with the Lynx, Alanna had a career night that showcased her full potential. Even though the team suffered just their second loss of the season that night, her performance was a testament to how far she’s come. Her ability to step up in big moments has made her a fan favorite and a crucial part of the Lynx’s strategy.

Key Highlights from Alanna’s WNBA Career

• Selected in the 2018 WNBA Draft
• Traded to Phoenix Mercury after draft
• Appeared in 37 total games in two seasons with Phoenix
• Traded to Minnesota Lynx in 2022
• Known for elite defensive play and versatility
• Played key role in Lynx’s playoff pushes

International Play and Olympic Journey

Alanna’s success isn’t limited to the WNBA — she’s also made a significant impact on the international stage. As a member of the Australian national team, she’s been named a two-time Olympian, representing her country on the world’s biggest stage. Her defensive instincts and leadership have been crucial for Australia’s success in international competitions.

Playing for Australia has allowed Smith to showcase her talents beyond the WNBA, and she’s become one of the team’s most reliable players. Her ability to adapt to different styles of play and compete at the highest level has earned her respect from teammates, opponents, and fans around the world. With the Olympics under her belt and more international tournaments on the horizon, Alanna’s legacy as a global basketball star is only growing.

In team settings, she often serves as a stabilizing force, especially when facing top-tier opponents. Her matchup against Jonquel Jones in a recent WNBA playoff game is a perfect example of how she steps up when the spotlight is on. Her ability to guard elite centers and contribute on the offensive end makes her an invaluable part of any roster.

Alanna Smith: Personal Life and Name Meaning

The name Alanna has deep roots and rich meaning. It’s often derived from the Gaelic or Celtic languages and can mean “rock,” “beautiful,” or “child.” In some interpretations, it’s also associated with nobility and brightness — qualities that seem to fit Alanna Smith’s personality and presence on and off the court.

While much of her life is focused on basketball, Alanna has also shown glimpses of her life beyond the court through social media and public appearances. She’s been spotted wearing Nike gear, a nod to her sponsorship, and her time at Stanford remains a big part of her identity. Fans have also taken note of her name’s significance, drawing connections between its meanings and her tenacity, grace, and leadership on the court.

It’s also worth noting that Alanna is sometimes spelled differently — like Alana, Elana, or Ilana — but the version she carries has a distinct flair that reflects both her heritage and her individuality. Whether you’re a fan of her game or just curious about her name’s meaning, there’s a lot to appreciate about how it fits her story.

FAQs About Alanna Smith

1. Where did Alanna Smith play college basketball?

Alanna Smith played college basketball at Stanford University, where she was a standout player known for her defensive skills and versatility on the court.

2. Has Alanna Smith won any awards or honors?

Yes, Alanna is a two-time Olympian and has earned recognition for her performance in both college and the WNBA. She was also nominated for a SAG Award for her acting role as Jeanine Pirro in *Bombshell*.

3. What position does Alanna Smith play?

Alanna Smith plays as a forward/center in the WNBA, known for her ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both offense and defense.

Alanna Smith’s journey in basketball has been one of hard work, perseverance, and undeniable talent. Whether you’re following her WNBA career, her Olympic appearances, or even just curious about her name’s meaning, there’s a lot to learn and admire about this rising star.

For more insights into the lives of athletes shaping today’s sports world, you might want to learn more about other rising stars here. And if you’re looking for the latest updates on Alanna’s career and performances, be sure to check out her profile on ESPN for real-time stats and highlights.