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'It started as a joke': Leger-Walker reveals how Tauihi move came together
Robbie Cuthbertson • September 3rd, 2026 12:03 pm
Charlisse Leger-Walker | Photo: Basketball NZ
With Charlisse Leger-Walker's rookie WNBA season with the Connecticut Sun nearing its conclusion, the Kiwi Fern admits she couldn't pass up the chance to join her sister back on the court on NZ soil.
On Monday, Leger-Walker confirmed she'd signed with the Tokomanawa Queens in the Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa League, who'll she join when her US commitments end next month.
"Oh man, it was huge," Leger-Walker told Sport Nation Mornings when asked how much playing with her sister, Krystal, factored into her decision.
“I'm so excited to come home and play. I was talking to my sister a little bit just about my off-season plans and most people in the league (WNBA) kind of go and play somewhere in the off-season.”
"When I figured out that she was going to play again in the Tauihi League, I thought 'maybe I'll just see if I can come back and play'. It started as a joke and then it got really serious real quick."
Charlisse Leger-Walker on inspiring the next generation of Kiwi ballers | The Fast Break Podcast
The 18th pick in the WNBA Draft, Leger-Walker said it felt like the opportune time to return and help grow the game in her home nation.
"It feels like the right time and right kind of next step in my professional career, and what a better place to come home and play in front of friends and family again.
Charlisse and Krystal Leger-Walker | Photo: Photosport
“All the news about me making the league is kind of big and hot and everything like that. I really want to help the game grow, especially for the women, and what better time to do it than right now.
"I've always been the biggest advocate for these pathways and opportunities that basketball represents, whether that's the educational opportunities, the chance to travel and go experience the world almost for free.
"I think there's so many kids out there, both girls and boys, who can benefit from basketball.”
How Charlisse Leger-Walker celebrated her NCAA triumph | The Fast Break Podcast
Reflecting on her draft night experience, the 24-year-old admits it still feels as though it was somewhat of a dream hearing her name called by WNBA commissioner, Cathy Engelbert in New York.
“It was surreal,” Leger-Walker recalled.
“I still kind of think back to that point, and I honestly think I blacked out a little bit when I was walking up to the stage. It all happened so fast.
“I hear my name get called out, and I'm like, oh my, like, this is actually happening right now. Just walking across that stage, taking the photo, like having the singlet handed to me.
"It was a moment that I will never forget.”
Leger-Walker will suit up alongside her sister Krystal for the Tokomanawa Queens on September 27 in Porirua for opening night of the Tauihi League season.
Listen to the full interview below:
