International Impact
Temple University’s women’s basketball program has become a launchpad for talent that stretches far beyond the campus in Philadelphia. In the past season, a dozen former Owls have taken their games to professional leagues across Europe, the Americas and the Middle East, each carving out a niche and contributing to their clubs’ success.
Among them, Anissa Rivera has emerged as a standout in Portugal’s Liga Feminina de Basquetebol. The 2025 graduate helped Q. Lombos secure a 73‑59 victory over Benfica, a win that propelled the team to a 20‑2 record and the top spot in the league. Rivera’s 13 points, six rebounds, three assists and four steals in just 21 minutes earned her the league’s MVP honor for the night, underscoring her ability to dominate even in limited minutes.
Rivera’s impact is not a one‑off. Across her rookie season she has averaged 9.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.4 steals per game, figures that speak to a well‑rounded contribution on both ends of the floor. Her rapid adaptation to the professional pace has made her a key piece of Q. Lombos’ push for the championship.
Across the Atlantic, Feyonda Fitzgerald is making her mark in Mexico’s Liga de Baloncesto Femenil. Playing for Panteras de Aguascalientes, the former Temple star posted 19 points and three assists in a 90‑73 win over Abejas, a performance that helped the club improve to 14‑2 and maintain first place. Fitzgerald is currently averaging 15.0 points, 1.7 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game, a statistical footprint that places her among the league’s most influential playmakers.
The ripple effect of Temple alumni is evident in the variety of leagues they now inhabit. Victoria Macaulay competes in Turkey’s KBSL, Aleah Nelson battles in the Czech Republic’s ZBL, while Tanaya Atkinson leads Estepona in Spain’s LF Endesa. In the United States, Sheylani Peddy continues to showcase her skills with the Connecticut Sun of the WNBA, and other former Owls such as Kendall Currence, Ruth Sherrill, Tiarra East and Tarriyonna Gary are active in Greece, Iceland, the United Kingdom, Norway and Puerto Rico, respectively.
A Global Footprint
These stories illustrate more than individual achievement; they reflect a growing pipeline that connects Temple’s competitive environment to professional opportunities worldwide. As scouts and coaches abroad continue to recognize the work ethic and skill set cultivated in Philadelphia, the university’s influence on the global stage is poised to expand even further.