Michelle Timms

Full Name: Michelle Maree Timms
Birthdate: June 28, 1965
Position: Point Guard
Height: 5’7″
Nationality: Australian

Professional Career Overview:
1. Australian Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) (1984–1997)

Timms began her career in the WNBL, playing for teams such as the Bulleen Boomers and Nunawading Spectres.
She became a trailblazer for Australian women’s basketball, establishing herself as a skilled point guard with excellent court vision and leadership abilities.
2. International Career (Germany and Hungary)

Played professionally in Europe for Lotus München in Germany and other top teams in Hungary, gaining valuable international experience.
3. Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) (1997–2001)

Signed with the Phoenix Mercury during the inaugural WNBA season in 1997.
Became the first Australian to play in the WNBA, paving the way for other international players.
Helped lead the Mercury to the 1998 WNBA Finals, where they fell to the Houston Comets.
Known for her playmaking skills and fiery competitiveness, Timms became a fan favorite and a key contributor for the Mercury.
National Team Career (Australian Opals, 1983–2000):
Represented the Australian Opals in multiple international competitions, including:
3 Olympic Games:
Bronze Medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics
3 FIBA Women’s World Cups:
Silver Medal in 1998
Timms was known for her leadership and ability to elevate the team’s play on the global stage. Her contributions helped establish the Opals as a world basketball powerhouse.
Playing Style:
Michelle Timms was a dynamic point guard known for her:

Excellent court vision and passing ability
Defensive intensity and hustle
Leadership on and off the court
Fearless play against top international opponents
Hall of Fame Inductions:
Basketball Australia Hall of Fame (2006)
FIBA Hall of Fame (2016)
Inducted for her significant contributions to international basketball.
Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2008)
Recognized as a pioneer for Australian women’s basketball and for her exceptional career in both international and professional leagues.
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2024)
Legacy:
Timms is considered one of the greatest and most influential figures in Australian basketball history.
Michele Timms, a trailblazer in women’s basketball, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024, becoming the third Australian to receive this honor, following Lindsay Gaze and Lauren Jackson.