Natalie Achonwa

Natalie Achonwa has established herself as one of Canada’s most accomplished athletes over the past decade. A former standout at Notre Dame, she made history as the first international player to join the Fighting Irish women’s basketball team. During her collegiate career, Achonwa was instrumental in leading her team to four Final Four appearances and three National Championship games, earning accolades such as the Big East All-Freshman Team and Honorable Mention for the Associated Press All-America Team.

In 2014, Achonwa was selected as the 9th overall pick in the WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever, marking the beginning of her professional career. Over five seasons with the Fever, she became a key player, recognized for her contributions on and off the court. Her dedication to community service earned her the WNBA Season-Long Community Assist Award in 2019 and the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award in 2020, showcasing her commitment to making a positive impact.

In 2021, Achonwa joined the Minnesota Lynx, where she continued to excel as a power forward, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and skilled player. Her international experience includes representing Canada in multiple tournaments, including the Pan American Games and FIBA AmeriCup, where she contributed to the team’s success.

Transitioning into coaching, Achonwa is currently an assistant coach for player development at the University of Michigan. Her journey reflects not only her athletic prowess but also her passion for mentoring the next generation of athletes, making her a true role model in the world of sports.