In her first season in Bendigo colours, the 21-year-old capped off a phenomenal year by claiming the MVP Award, a result that was hardly surprising after winning’s the WNBL’s equivalent award – the Suzy Batkovic Medal – by a margin of 41 votes on Monday night.
Continuing her remarkable rise as one of not only the WNBL’s but basketball’s brightest young stars, throughout the 2025-26 WNBL regular season Borlase averaged 22.9 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game, delivering one of the most dominant individual seasons in recent history, following in the footsteps of former Spirit star, Sami Whitcomb, who last season also claimed both the WNBL and club MVP honours in the same week.
Abbey Wehrung was recognised as the Spirit’s Defensive Player of the Year for season 2025-26, rewarded for another disciplined and reliable campaign. Wehrung averaged 7.4 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists across the season, consistently taking on some of the league’s toughest guard assignments while bringing trademark composure and leadership.
Another first‑year Spirit player, Kelsey Rees, claimed two major honours, being awarded both the Breakout Player of the Year and Sixt Player of the Year titles. The 23‑year‑old made an immediate impression in her debut Spirit season, contributing 6.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game while providing consistent impact and energy off the bench.
The Development Player of the Year, presented by Thales, was awarded to Laura Taylor, a local Ballarat product who has been a dedicated training player with the Spirit throughout the season. Taylor’s commitment, reliability and positive influence were widely praised, and her strong 2025 NBL1 season for Ballarat - where she averaged 9.9 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game - further highlighted her potential growth.
The 2025-26 Club Person of the Year Award was awarded to a very deserving recipient in Erin Ross. As the club’s Administration Officer, Ross goes above and beyond her official duties, working across team operations and logistics, and engaging with local partners. However, most importantly, Ross is at the forefront of ensuring the Bendigo club is a welcoming and inclusive one for all players, especially in making it a home-away-from-home for those who do not reside in Bendigo year-round.
In conjunction with Red Energy, the Spirit also proudly announced the winner of the Red Energy Community Person of the Year; an initiative launched this season to celebrate outstanding local contributions. Bryan Greenwood, nominated by his wife Danielle, received the honour for his exceptional service as a volunteer firefighter and Captain of his local brigade. Bryan consistently puts community needs before his own - responding at all hours to protect lives and property, most notably during the recent Harcourt fires - and dedicates countless hours to training, supporting and strengthening his brigade.
Last, but certainly not least, Spirit co-captains Kelsey Griffin and Marianna Tolo were acknowledged for reaching their 250-game milestones during Round 6 earlier this season, and achievement that earned both players Life Membership of the WNBL.
Bendigo Spirit General Manager, Dan Jackson, said the Awards Night was a great reflection of a great regular season on-court for the club.
“We’re incredibly proud of this group and what they achieved this season. Izzy’s impact in her first year was extraordinary - to win both the league MVP and our club MVP at just 21 shows the type of star she is becoming. Abbey once again set the tone for us defensively, taking on the toughest assignments every week, and Kelsey made an immediate impression in her debut season, bringing energy and growth that earned her two well‑deserved awards.
“Laura’s attitude and commitment as our Development Player were outstanding,” Jackson continued, “and Erin has been the heartbeat of our off‑court operations - she makes this club feel like home. And being able to recognise someone like Bryan through our partnership with Red Energy reminds us what community really means. We’re lucky to have so many exceptional people representing the Spirit.”
The Spirit now turn their attention to Game One of their Semi Final Series against the Perth Lynx, which begins in Perth on Saturday.
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