Elena Delle Donne has officially retired from professional basketball. The 35-year-old made the announcement via Instagram, marking the end of a decorated career that included two MVP awards, a championship, and seven All-Star selections.
Elena Delle Donne’s legendary career comes to a close
Delle Donne’s retirement follows a 2023 season with the Washington Mystics , her final stop in a career that began with the Chicago Sky. In her emotional Instagram post, she revealed that her body had signaled the end before her mind fully accepted it.
"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," she wrote. She expressed gratitude to her family, teammates, executives, sponsors, and fans for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
Key highlights of Elena Delle Donne’s career
- WNBA Champion (2019) – Led the Mystics to their first and only title.
- Two-time MVP (2015, 2019) – One of only 10 players to win multiple MVPs.
- Seven-time All-Star – Consistently among the league’s elite.
- Rookie of the Year (2013) – Immediate impact after being drafted No. 2 overall.
- All-time leader in free-throw percentage, turnover percentage, and offensive rating – Cemented her efficiency and skill.
Elena Delle Donne’s journey from college standout to WNBA icon
Before her professional success, Delle Donne transformed the University of Delaware into a mid-major powerhouse. As a three-time All-American, she put the program on the national map.
Drafted by the Chicago Sky in 2013, she quickly became a franchise cornerstone, earning MVP honors in 2015. A 2017 trade sent her to Washington, where she reached new heights, securing her second MVP and a championship in 2019.
Elena Delle Donne’s international success
Beyond the WNBA, Delle Donne excelled on the global stage:
- Olympic gold medalist
- FIBA World Cup champion
- World University Games gold medalist
Legacy and future hall of fame induction
Delle Donne leaves the game as one of the most efficient and versatile players in league history. Her ability to score, defend, and lead made her a generational talent.
Where Elena Delle Donne’s ranks all-time
Category
Stat
Rank
What’s next for the WNBA?
With Delle Donne’s retirement, the league turns its attention to the next generation of stars, including Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The 2025 WNBA Draft will be a key moment in shaping the future of the sport.
Also read: Ja Morant’s finger guns backfire: NBA slaps star with $75,000 fine as Memphis Grizzlies’ playoff hopes hang in balance
For more WNBA coverage, stay tuned to Sports Illustrated for updates on free agency, draft analysis, and breaking news.
Elena Delle Donne’s legendary career comes to a close
Delle Donne’s retirement follows a 2023 season with the Washington Mystics , her final stop in a career that began with the Chicago Sky. In her emotional Instagram post, she revealed that her body had signaled the end before her mind fully accepted it.
"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," she wrote. She expressed gratitude to her family, teammates, executives, sponsors, and fans for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
Key highlights of Elena Delle Donne’s career
- WNBA Champion (2019) – Led the Mystics to their first and only title.
- Two-time MVP (2015, 2019) – One of only 10 players to win multiple MVPs.
- Seven-time All-Star – Consistently among the league’s elite.
- Rookie of the Year (2013) – Immediate impact after being drafted No. 2 overall.
- All-time leader in free-throw percentage, turnover percentage, and offensive rating – Cemented her efficiency and skill.
Elena Delle Donne’s journey from college standout to WNBA icon
https://www.instagram.com/p/DIBwmc_M9rZ/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== https://www.instagram.com/p/DIBwmc_M9rZ/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Before her professional success, Delle Donne transformed the University of Delaware into a mid-major powerhouse. As a three-time All-American, she put the program on the national map.
Drafted by the Chicago Sky in 2013, she quickly became a franchise cornerstone, earning MVP honors in 2015. A 2017 trade sent her to Washington, where she reached new heights, securing her second MVP and a championship in 2019.
Elena Delle Donne’s international success
Beyond the WNBA, Delle Donne excelled on the global stage:
- Olympic gold medalist
- FIBA World Cup champion
- World University Games gold medalist
Legacy and future hall of fame induction
Delle Donne leaves the game as one of the most efficient and versatile players in league history. Her ability to score, defend, and lead made her a generational talent.
Where Elena Delle Donne’s ranks all-time
Category
Stat
Rank
What’s next for the WNBA?
With Delle Donne’s retirement, the league turns its attention to the next generation of stars, including Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. The 2025 WNBA Draft will be a key moment in shaping the future of the sport.
Also read: Ja Morant’s finger guns backfire: NBA slaps star with $75,000 fine as Memphis Grizzlies’ playoff hopes hang in balance
For more WNBA coverage, stay tuned to Sports Illustrated for updates on free agency, draft analysis, and breaking news.
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