CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand – The stars continue to roll in! We are thrilled to welcome American guard Leilani Correa, our final import for 2025, to the ProBuild ITM Mainland Pouākai!
Nicknamed “The Microwave” for her ability to quickly heat up, Correa is a professional scorer with a diverse two-way skillset, perfectly tailored to our high-pace style of play.
“We’ve built our roster around flexibility—balancing shooting, spacing, and rim pressure—and Leilani’s athleticism helps unlock that,” said Head Coach Alex Stojkovic. “She adds a different dimension to our backcourt.”
“Beyond that, her energy is contagious. She brings a really positive vibe that’s going to lift the whole group. I’m excited to have her with us.”
Correa began her collegiate career with the St. John’s Red Storm, earning two-time All-Big East First Team honours before transferring to the University of Florida. In her final season with the Gators programme, she averaged 16.9 points per game, which increased to an SEC-best 21.4 points per game in conference play. Her impressive performance led to her being selected 27th overall by the Indiana Fever in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
”The Fever training camp gave me a lot of experience as far as communication on both ends of the floor and leading by example,” explained Correa. “Basketball has always come naturally to me, but I think the most important thing is definitely communication and having strong leadership.”
This past season, Correa professionally debuted in the Greek A1 for Panathlitikos, averaging 14.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.1 steals. She scored a season-high 28 points versus Panathinaikos.
When asked to highlight her strengths, Correa said, “I would describe my game as very versatile. I can play anywhere on the court and I love to play fast! I can shoot and get to the basket as well. A lot of people have described my game as smooth and fluid.”
Coach Stojkovic agreed, describing her as “[bringing] athleticism, pace, and the ability to create off the dribble. She can break down defenders, score at the rim, and find open teammates—exactly the kind of dynamic guard we were looking for. Her speed and aggressiveness will fit perfectly with how we want to play.”
“Leilani is instant offense. Her nickname in college was ‘Microwave’ for a reason—she led the SEC in scoring for Florida off the bench! We’ll look to her to push the tempo, attack in transition, and keep constant pressure on defenses. I actually looked at her closely last year, but I tend to prefer players with some pro experience. After a strong season in Greece’s A1 league with Panathlitikos, she’s more than ready for Tauihi.”
On her aspirations this season, securing the Tauihi trophy is the first thing on Correa’s mind.
“My main goal for this season is to win a championship of course with my team. But for more personal, I’d absolutely love to be first-team everything.”
Pouākai season memberships are available now! Fly Fearless with us in 2025 as we chase our first-ever Tauihi championship!
2025 ProBuild ITM Mainland Pouākai: Charlotte Whittaker, Taylor Mikesell, McKenna Dale, Abigail Fogg, Marena Whittle, Morgan Yaeger, Leilani Correa.
