Layshia Clarendon bids farewell to WNBA after 12-year tenure

Layshia Clarendon Bids Farewell to WNBA After 12-Year Tenure

In an illustrious career that spanned over a decade and included stints with six different teams, Layshia Clarendon has decided to retire from professional basketball. Clarendon, who has been a pivotal figure both on and off the court, made the announcement on Friday, 20th September 2024.

A Career Full of Milestones and Hardships

Clarendon’s journey in the WNBA began in 2013 when they were selected as the 9th overall pick by the Indiana Fever. Their impact was immediate, helping the team make the playoffs each year they played for the franchise. Despite a modest start, averaging 4.2 points and 1.8 rebounds in their rookie season, Clarendon improved those numbers to 6.7 points and 2.7 rebounds by their third year. However, the journey was far from smooth.

In May 2016, the Fever traded Clarendon to the Atlanta Dream, a move that proved beneficial for the guard. Clarendon recorded their best season yet, averaging 10.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, with a 46.6% field goal percentage. Their performance peaked in 2017, earning them an All-Star selection and a multi-year contract with the Dream.

Clarendon’s time with the Dream also saw them set a career-high of 19 points and 6 rebounds in a game against their former team, the Indiana Fever. Unfortunately, despite the promising stats, stability remained elusive, and Clarendon was traded to the Connecticut Sun in 2018 after 18 games with the Dream. At Connecticut, despite dealing with an ankle injury that required surgery, Clarendon’s leadership skills shone through both on and off the court.

Setbacks and Resurgences

Clarendon’s 2019 season with the Sun was cut short by an ankle injury, but they found new opportunities with the New York Liberty in 2020. Clarendon brought experience and mentoring abilities to the team, especially benefiting No. 1 draft pick Sabrina Ionescu. Clarendon’s 2020 season stats included a career-high 46.5% field goal percentage, averaging 11.5 points per game, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists.

Following the Liberty, Clarendon joined the Minnesota Lynx in 2021, initially on a hardship deal that became a season-long contract. Their performance was commendable, with averages of 10.4 points and a career-best 51.7% field goal percentage. They led the team in assists, making a significant mark despite the limited number of games.

In another twist, Clarendon was waived by the Lynx but soon found a new home with the LA Sparks. They continued to perform well, recording an average of 11.1 points and 3.4 assists in 2021. This marked the conclusion of Clarendon’s playing career, finishing with an average of 7.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game over their 12-year tenure.

Legacy On and Off the Court

While Clarendon’s on-court performance is noteworthy, their advocacy work has been equally significant. As the WNBA’s first openly transgender and nonbinary player, they have been a leading voice in social justice initiatives within the league. This dual impact solidifies Clarendon’s place not just as an athlete but as a trailblazer and role model.

Reflecting on their career and decision to retire, Clarendon mentioned, “I am deeply at peace with this choice as my mind, body, and spirit know unequivocally that it’s time to move on.” With these words, they closed the chapter on an inspiring career, one marked by resilience, skill, and unwavering determination.

Clarendon leaves behind a substantial legacy, highlighted not just by their athletic achievements but by their significant contributions to advocacy and leadership within the WNBA. As fans and teammates bid farewell, the mark they have left on the court and beyond will be remembered for years to come.

Source: Noah Wire Services