WNBA players to join Tokomanawa Queens in 2026
Wednesday 23 September 2026 · 4 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story Tokomanawa Queens, WNBA, Charlisse Leger-Walker, Hailey Van Lith
Hailey Van Lith and Charlisse Leger-Walker will play for the Tokomanawa Queens in the 2026 Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa season. Both players currently play for the Connecticut Sun and will join the team following their WNBA commitments.
Key facts
4 facts
- Hailey Van Lith will play for the Tokomanawa Queens in 2026
- Van Lith plays for the WNBA's Connecticut Sun
- The Tokomanawa Queens are based in Wellington
- The Queens play in the Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa league
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
WNBA player Hailey Van Lith will join the Tokomanawa Queens for the 2026 Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa season. The Connecticut Sun guard is expected to join the Wellington-based team in time for their second game of the season.
Van Lith will play alongside her Connecticut Sun teammate Charlisse Leger-Walker. Leger-Walker is scheduled to arrive in New Zealand on Sunday, following her final 2026 WNBA game.
Coach Tania Tupu believes securing two WNBA players is a massive validation for the club. The team is also bolstered by imports Taylor Mikesell and Mimi Collins, alongside Penina Davidson, Stella Beck, Krystal Leger-Walker, and Jade Kirisome.
The Queens are aiming for a second Tauihi title, starting their season this weekend against the Northern Kāhu.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and Waikato Times.
How they headlined it
-
Stuff
-
NZ Herald
How Tokomanawa Queens lured WNBA star Hailey Van Lith to NZ women’s basketball (opens in new tab)
-
Waikato Times via The Post
Also on The Post (opens in new tab)
