Elena Delle Donne, a transformative figure in women’s basketball, announced her retirement from the WNBA on April 4, 2025, concluding an illustrious 11-year professional career. Her journey from a high school prodigy to a two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Olympic gold medalist has left an indelible mark on the sport.
High School Stardom and Collegiate Beginnings
Born on September 5, 1989, in Wilmington, Delaware, Delle Donne’s basketball prowess became evident during her tenure at Ursuline Academy. She led the school to three consecutive Delaware State Championships and earned national recognition, including being named the 2007 Gatorade National Player of the Year. Her exceptional skills garnered widespread attention, making her one of the most sought-after recruits in the nation.
Initially committing to the University of Connecticut, Delle Donne made the unexpected decision to step away from basketball, citing personal reasons and a desire to be closer to her family, particularly her sister Lizzie, who is deaf and blind. She enrolled at the University of Delaware, initially joining the volleyball team. However, her passion for basketball reignited, leading her to join the Delaware Blue Hens women’s basketball team.
Dominance at the University of Delaware
Delle Donne’s impact at Delaware was immediate and profound. Over her collegiate career from 2009 to 2013, she averaged an astounding 26.7 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, setting 45 school records and finishing as the fifth all-time leading scorer in NCAA history with 3,039 points. Her accolades included three All-American honors and three Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Player of the Year awards. She led the Blue Hens to a 32-4 record and a trip to the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2013, solidifying her legacy as one of the most outstanding players in collegiate basketball.
Transition to the WNBA: Chicago Sky
The Chicago Sky selected Delle Donne as the second overall pick in the 2013 WNBA Draft. She made an immediate impact, earning the Rookie of the Year award and leading the Sky to their first-ever playoff appearance. In 2015, she secured her first MVP award, averaging a career-best 23.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. During this season, she recorded a career-high 45 points against the Atlanta Dream, showcasing her scoring prowess.
A New Chapter with the Washington Mystics
In 2017, Delle Donne was traded to the Washington Mystics, a move that would culminate in the pinnacle of her professional career. She led the Mystics to their first WNBA Championship in 2019, a season during which she also earned her second MVP award. Notably, she became the first WNBA player to join the exclusive 50-40-90 club, signifying shooting percentages of at least 50% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 90% from the free-throw line.
Battles with Health and Resilience
Throughout her career, Delle Donne faced significant health challenges, including chronic Lyme disease and back injuries that required multiple surgeries. These health issues limited her playing time in subsequent seasons. She opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns and did not participate in the 2024 season, leading to speculation about her future in the league.
Retirement and Legacy
At 35, Delle Donne announced her retirement through an emotional Instagram post, stating, “My body seemed to make this decision before my mind accepted it, but I now truly know this is the right thing for me at the right time.” Over her 11-season career, she averaged 19.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, with a remarkable free-throw shooting percentage of 93.7%, the highest in WNBA history.
Delle Donne’s contributions extended beyond her on-court performance. She was a seven-time All-Star, a four-time All-WNBA First Team member, and played a pivotal role in popularizing women’s basketball. Her advocacy for Lyme disease awareness and her commitment to her family further endeared her to fans and the broader community.
In retirement, Delle Donne will serve as a special advisor for Monumental Basketball, the organization that oversees the Washington Mystics and Wizards, allowing her to continue influencing the sport she loves.
Elena Delle Donne’s journey from a high school standout to a WNBA champion and MVP is a testament to her talent, resilience, and dedication. Her impact on the game will be felt for generations, as she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and inspiration in women’s basketball.