15 Facts About Alanna Smith

Who is Alanna Smith?

Alanna Smith is a name that resonates in the world of sports, particularly basketball. Known for her impressive skills on the court, she has made a significant impact both in college basketball and professional leagues. Here are some intriguing facts about this talented athlete.

1. Australian Roots: Alanna Smith was born in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. Her Australian heritage plays a significant role in her identity and career.

2. Basketball Family: She comes from a family deeply rooted in basketball. Her father, Darren Smith, played professionally in Australia, and her uncle, Jason Smith, represented Australia in the Olympics.

3. Stanford Star: Smith attended Stanford University, where she played for the Stanford Cardinal women's basketball team. She quickly became one of the standout players.

4. Record Breaker: During her time at Stanford, she set multiple records, including being the first player in school history to record 1,600 points, 200 three-pointers, and 200 blocks.

5. Pac-12 Honors: Smith earned numerous accolades in the Pac-12 Conference, including being named to the All-Pac-12 team multiple times.

Professional Career

Transitioning from college to professional basketball is a significant step. Alanna Smith has navigated this journey with grace and determination.

6. WNBA Draft: In 2019, Smith was selected as the 8th overall pick in the WNBA Draft by the Phoenix Mercury.

7. Phoenix Mercury: She played for the Phoenix Mercury, where she continued to showcase her skills and versatility on the court.

8. International Play: Smith has also played professionally overseas, including stints in Europe and Australia, broadening her experience and exposure.

National Team Contributions

Representing one's country is a dream for many athletes. Alanna Smith has had the honor of doing so on multiple occasions.

9. Australian Opals: Smith has been a member of the Australian Opals, the national women's basketball team, contributing to their success in various international competitions.

10. Olympic Aspirations: She was part of the squad that competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, showcasing her talent on one of the biggest stages in sports.

11. Commonwealth Games: Smith also represented Australia in the Commonwealth Games, helping her team secure a gold medal.

Off the Court

Athletes often have interests and pursuits outside their sport. Alanna Smith is no exception.

12. Academic Achievements: At Stanford, Smith excelled not only in basketball but also academically, earning a degree in Science, Technology, and Society.

13. Community Involvement: Smith is actively involved in community service, often participating in events and initiatives aimed at promoting sports and healthy living among youth.

14. Role Model: She is considered a role model for young athletes, particularly in Australia, inspiring many to pursue their dreams in sports.

15. Personal Interests: Outside of basketball, Smith enjoys activities like hiking, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Final Thoughts on Alanna Smith

Alanna Smith's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days in Australia to making waves in the WNBA, her story is a testament to hard work and determination. She’s not just a basketball player; she’s a role model for young athletes everywhere. Her dedication to the sport and her community shows that success is about more than just talent. It’s about heart, perseverance, and a willingness to give back. Whether she’s on the court or off, Alanna continues to make a positive impact. So, next time you watch a game, remember the incredible journey behind those impressive plays. Alanna Smith is proof that with passion and effort, you can achieve great things. Keep an eye on her; she’s just getting started.