Miela Sowah's golden year with the Valkyries

Miela Sowah's remarkable year culminated in a historic WNBA championship with the Golden State Valkyries. The 26-year-old had previously secured a WNBL title for Townsville in March and was called up to represent the Opals in the FIBA World Cup in September. The Valkyries, in only their second season, made history by winning the championship after coming from behind against the Atlanta Dream in the first-ever Game 7 of the WNBA Finals.

Although Sowah did not play during the Finals as a development player, her contribution to the team's success is significant. The Valkyries became the fastest expansion team to win a title in the U.S. since the Milwaukee Bucks in 1971. This championship marks the 17th WNBA title that includes an Australian player, with Sowah joining a prestigious group of Australian basketball stars. The game featured notable players from both teams, including Isobel Borlase, who played a key role for the Dream off the bench.