The Geelong Venom have made a major splash in WNBL free agency, securing the services of WNBA forward Alissa Pili.
Pili, 24, was the eighth pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, part of a star-studded class that included names like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Cameron Brink.
A college basketball star, she will now join the newly revamped Geelong team following their rebrand in July.
Geelong Venom land former WNBA top 10 pick Alissa Pili
Alissa Pili is the newest member of the Geelong Venom, heading down under following a tumultuous season in the WNBA, which saw her waived by the Minnesota Lynx before being immediately picked up by the Los Angeles Sparks.
ALISSA PILI — BREAKOUT 20 POINT GAME 🔥‼️
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) June 1, 2024
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Despite struggling to find consistent playing time in Minnesota after joining the championship contender as a rookie, Pili will enter the WNBL as one of the league's most talented players, an opportunity she was eager to take.
"I’m super excited to be playing in Geelong this season," Pili said.
"I’ve heard incredible things about the team’s culture and coaching staff, and I feel like I’ll fit perfectly with their style of play. I lead by example, I push and encourage my teammates, and I’ll do whatever it takes to win—that’s what I’m bringing to the Venom."
"Geelong fans can expect someone who’s steady, consistent and full of energy. I love getting excited for my teammates, I can stretch the floor, and I’m really looking forward to getting to work, meeting the team and stacking up the wins."
She now becomes part of a talented Geelong roster, featuring names like Jazmin Shelley, and Shyla Heal, with the WNBL season set to begin in mid-October.
But before this, she will hope to help her new home of Los Angeles make a run at the WNBA post season, with the Sparks currently on the bubble of the last remaining playoff spot.