Tully Bevilaqua

Tully Bevilaqua is a former professional basketball player from Australia who made her mark in the WNBA as a skilled shooting guard. Born on July 19, 1972, in Merredin, Western Australia, Tully's journey in sports extended beyond basketball through her marriage to former cricketer Dirk Bevilaqua.

Career

Tully began her professional career in Australia before seizing the opportunity to play in the United States. She signed with the Cleveland Rockers as a free agent before the 1998 season, though her time there was short-lived as she played just 12 games. In 2000, she joined the Portland Fire, where she showcased her talent over three seasons until the franchise folded after the 2002 season.

Her next stop was with the Seattle Storm, where Tully enjoyed significant success, contributing to the team's victory in the 2004 WNBA Championship against the Connecticut Sun. In 2005, she signed with the Indiana Fever, helping them secure a #2 playoff seed, although they fell to the New York Liberty in the first round.

Despite her achievements in the WNBA, it wasn't until 2006 that Tully earned a spot on the Australian national team, the Opals. At the age of 34, she played a crucial role in securing a gold medal at the FIBA World Championship for Women.

Notable Performances

One of the standout moments in Tully's career came on August 27, 2007, when she was instrumental in a historic comeback for the Indiana Fever, overcoming a 22-point deficit against the Connecticut Sun in the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals. Later that week, her contributions were recognized as she received the Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award from the WNBA.

Playing Style

Tully was known for her tenacity on both ends of the court. As a shooting guard, she possessed an agile playing style that allowed her to be an effective scorer while also making vital defensive contributions. Her leadership and experience were evident throughout her career, making her a respected figure among teammates and opponents alike.

Tully Bevilaqua’s legacy in basketball is marked by her resilience and dedication, both at home and on the international stage. Her journey from Western Australia to the heights of professional basketball serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.