Nneka Ogwumike Concludes Legendary WNBA Career

Nneka Ogwumike is retiring from the WNBA after 15 seasons, as announced on Wednesday. Her illustrious career includes a WNBA championship and league MVP award. Ogwumike expressed gratitude and fulfillment with her decision to step away, stating she has poured everything into the game.

Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in 2012, Ogwumike earned Rookie of the Year honors. She accumulated 11 All-Star selections, eight All-WNBA nods, and seven All-Defensive team selections. After 12 seasons with the Sparks, averaging 16.5 points, she joined the Seattle Storm in 2024.

Beyond her on-court achievements, Ogwumike's impact as WNBPA president for 10 years is profound. She led negotiations for two collective bargaining agreements, including the one in 2020 that secured a massive salary increase for players. This agreement saw the salary cap grow by approximately 367 percent.

WNBPA executive director Terri Carmichael Jackson praised Ogwumike's unparalleled leadership, commitment, courage, and integrity. Ogwumike's work significantly advanced the women's game and the business of basketball for current and future generations.