Bunbury’s Alira Fotu to continue dual-sport juggling act after being elevated to Perth Lynx’s primary roster

Alira Fotu has been elevated to Perth Lynx’s main roster for the upcoming WNBL season — but the Bunbury product is set to continue a juggling act which has seen her balance elite basketball and football in recent years. Having spent last year as a development player with the club, the Lynx announced on Tuesday the 18-year-old guard had signed on as one of the 10 players on their main roster for their 2025-26 campaign. A talented dual-sport athlete, Fotu spent this year in the AFLW Academy and is considered a strong chance to be selected in the upcoming AFLW draft on the back of her impressive form for South Fremantle in the WAFLW and WA’s under-18s side. It is understood she is not expected to participate in physical testing at next month’s draft combine but has remained in the draft. The AFLW and WNBL seasons overlap but players featuring in both competitions is not without precedent, with Richmond pair Monique Conti and Tessa Lavey among those to have taken to the basketball court at the conclusion of their football commitments in recent years. Fotu said she was “so grateful” to be elevated to the Lynx’s main roster. “The Lynx has been amazing to me, and I’ve learnt so much from the team,” she said. “I’m still balancing basketball and footy, but right now I’m focused on making the most of this chance and continuing to grow as a player.” Lynx coach Ryan Petrik said Fotu’s rapid development in recent years had been brilliant to see. “She’s an outstanding athlete with an electric first step and can seemingly get her feet into the paint at will,” Petrik said. “She’s loved amongst the playing group and we’re thrilled to have her step into a bigger role this season.” Fotu has remained on an amateur contract with the Lynx in order to ensure she retains her eligibility to play in the American college system. The Lynx will open their WNBL season against Adelaide Lightning on October 19.