Who Quit The WNBA To Do What's Next? Exploring New Journeys Beyond The Court

Luciano O'Kon 14 Jul 2025

Have you ever wondered what happens when a top athlete steps away from the game they love? It's a question many fans ask, especially when it comes to the Women's National Basketball Association. These athletes, so very dedicated to their sport, often have big plans for life after the final buzzer. Their stories are pretty inspiring, actually, showing us that a professional sports career is just one chapter in a much larger book.

For many WNBA stars, leaving the court isn't the end of their drive. Instead, it marks the start of something totally different, yet still filled with passion. They might take on new challenges, pursue long-held dreams, or even work to make a difference in their communities. It's a fascinating look at how talent and determination can shine in so many ways, you know?

So, we're going to explore some of these remarkable journeys. We'll look at who decided to step away from the WNBA and what amazing things they've chosen to do instead. It's a chance to see how these athletes, with their incredible skills and strong spirits, continue to shape the world around them, often in surprising and impactful ways. It's pretty cool, if you ask me.

Maya Moore: A Journey for Justice
- Maya Moore: Personal Details
Renee Montgomery: From Court to Ownership
Sue Bird and Candace Parker: Media and Beyond
Swin Cash: Executive Leadership
Kara Lawson and Becky Hammon: Coaching Greatness
Ticha Penicheiro: A New Game as an Agent
Why Do WNBA Players Choose New Paths?
The Impact of Their Transitions
Common Questions About WNBA Player Transitions
Looking Ahead for Former WNBA Players

Maya Moore: A Journey for Justice

One of the most talked-about decisions in recent WNBA history came from Maya Moore. She was, quite frankly, one of the best players ever to grace the court. A multiple champion and MVP, her skills were just amazing. Yet, she chose to step away from basketball in 2019, right at the peak of her career. This was a pretty big deal, you know?

So, what did she do? Maya Moore dedicated her time and energy to a very personal cause: criminal justice reform. Specifically, she worked tirelessly to help overturn the conviction of Jonathan Irons. He had been wrongly imprisoned for many years. Her commitment to this cause was deep and very personal. She really put her heart into it, that's for sure.

Her efforts, along with those of others, eventually led to Jonathan Irons' release in 2020. This was a truly remarkable outcome. Their story, in a way, became a symbol of hope and perseverance. It showed the world that some things are more important than basketball, even for someone at the very top of their game. It's a powerful message, really.

Maya Moore: Personal Details

Detail	Information
Full Name	Maya April Moore
Born	June 11, 1989
Birthplace	Jefferson City, Missouri, USA
WNBA Team (Primary)	Minnesota Lynx
WNBA Years	2011–2018 (stepped away in 2019)
Key Achievements	4x WNBA Champion, WNBA MVP, 2x Olympic Gold Medalist
Post-WNBA Focus	Criminal Justice Reform, Advocacy
Notable Outcome	Helped secure the release of Jonathan Irons

Renee Montgomery: From Court to Ownership

Renee Montgomery is another WNBA player who made a significant move away from playing. She announced her retirement from the Atlanta Dream in 2021. This decision wasn't just about ending her playing career, though. It was about taking a truly bold step into a new role. She had a vision, you see.

What did she do? Renee Montgomery became a co-owner of the Atlanta Dream, the very team she had played for. This was a historic moment, as she became the first former WNBA player to become an owner in the league. It's a pretty big deal, honestly. She didn't just leave the game; she decided to help shape its future from a different seat.

Her ownership role isn't just a title. She is actively involved in the team's operations and community efforts. Montgomery also uses her platform for social justice advocacy. She's been a very vocal supporter of voting rights and other important causes. So, she's still very much in the game, just in a different capacity, which is cool.

Sue Bird and Candace Parker: Media and Beyond

When you think about WNBA legends, Sue Bird and Candace Parker surely come to mind. Both recently retired after incredibly successful careers. They didn't exactly "quit" in the middle of their prime like Maya Moore, but their transitions are still very interesting to watch. They are, in a way, showing us what retirement looks like for the best of the best.

Sue Bird, after her long and storied career with the Seattle Storm, has moved into media and business. She's a commentator for ESPN and has also taken on roles in various sports-related ventures. She's still very much connected to basketball, offering her insights and wisdom. It's almost like she's teaching the game from a different angle, you know?

Candace Parker, similarly, has quickly become a prominent voice in sports broadcasting since her retirement from the Las Vegas Aces. She works as an analyst for TNT and NBA on TNT. Parker also has a growing portfolio of business investments and endorsements. She's a very smart person, and it shows in how she's building her next career. It's really quite impressive.

Swin Cash: Executive Leadership

Swin Cash, a three-time WNBA champion, stepped off the court in 2016. Her transition wasn't to a quiet life, though. She quickly moved into high-level sports management. This was a natural fit, given her experience and leadership skills. She always seemed to have a knack for getting things done, that's for sure.

What did she do? Swin Cash joined the New Orleans Pelicans, an NBA team, as their Vice President of Basketball Operations and Team Development. This role involves a lot of different things, from player development to strategic planning. It's a very demanding job, but she brings a unique perspective from her playing days. She's, like, using her on-court smarts in the front office now, which is pretty neat.

Her journey shows how WNBA players can translate their on-court experience into executive roles in professional sports. It's a path that many more might follow in the future. She's, in a way, paving the way for others. It's a really good example of how talent can be applied in different areas, too.

Kara Lawson and Becky Hammon: Coaching Greatness

Not every player who leaves the WNBA goes into business or advocacy. Many stay close to the game, but in a teaching capacity. Kara Lawson and Becky Hammon are two excellent examples of this. They both had distinguished playing careers, and now they're sharing their knowledge from the sidelines.

Kara Lawson, after a successful playing career and a stint in broadcasting, made the jump to coaching. She became an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics in the NBA, which was a very notable appointment. Then, she took on the head coaching role for Duke University's women's basketball team. She's doing a great job there, building a strong program. It shows her dedication to the sport, really.

Becky Hammon also made waves by becoming an assistant coach in the NBA, working with the San Antonio Spurs. This was a truly groundbreaking move for women in professional sports coaching. She then took her talents to the WNBA, becoming the head coach of the Las Vegas Aces. Under her leadership, the Aces won a championship. She's, in a way, proving that great players can become great coaches, too.

Ticha Penicheiro: A New Game as an Agent

Ticha Penicheiro, a legendary point guard known for her incredible passing, also transitioned into a different role within basketball after her playing days. She didn't go into coaching or ownership, but rather into player representation. It's a different side of the game, for sure.

What did she do? Ticha Penicheiro became a certified player agent. This means she helps other basketball players, both men and women, manage their careers, negotiate contracts, and find opportunities. Her deep understanding of the game and the business side of things makes her a very valuable asset to her clients. She's, like, looking out for the next generation of players, which is pretty cool.

Her path highlights yet another way former WNBA players can stay involved and make a difference in the sport. It's a role that requires a lot of knowledge and trust. She's using her experience to help others, which is a good thing, you know?

Why Do WNBA Players Choose New Paths?

There are many reasons why WNBA players decide to step away from the court and explore other avenues. One big factor is simply the natural end of a playing career. Bodies get older, and the demands of professional sports can be very tough. So, eventually, everyone has to make that choice, you know?

Another reason is passion beyond the game. Like Maya Moore, some players have a strong desire to work on social causes or pursue personal interests that playing basketball full-time just doesn't allow. They might have always wanted to do something else, and now is their chance, basically.

Also, the financial realities of the WNBA can play a part. While salaries have improved, many players still seek additional income or more stable long-term careers outside of playing. This is a practical consideration for many athletes. It's, like, thinking about the future, too.

Some players, like Renee Montgomery, see opportunities to make a bigger impact off the court. They want to be leaders, decision-makers, or even owners. They want to shape the future of the league or their communities in a new way. It's about wanting to contribute in a different capacity, really.

And, of course, some simply feel ready for a new challenge. They've achieved so much in basketball, and now they're eager to see what else they can accomplish. It's a chance to grow and learn new things, which is always a good thing, you know?

The Impact of Their Transitions

The choices these former WNBA players make have a big impact, not just on their own lives, but on the world around them. When someone like Maya Moore dedicates herself to justice, it brings attention to important issues. It shows that athletes can be powerful voices for change. It's a very inspiring thing to see, honestly.

When Renee Montgomery becomes an owner, she breaks barriers and creates new pathways for other women and former players. She's, in a way, changing the game from the inside out. This sort of leadership is very important for the league's future. It's about showing what's possible, too.

The moves by Sue Bird, Candace Parker, Swin Cash, Kara Lawson, and Becky Hammon into media, executive roles, and coaching also show the depth of talent within the WNBA. They prove that these athletes have skills that go far beyond just playing basketball. They are smart, strategic, and very capable. They're, like, showing the world what they can do, which is great.

These transitions also inspire younger players and fans. They show that there's a whole world of possibilities after a playing career ends. It's not just about the game; it's about life skills, leadership, and finding new passions. It gives people a lot to think about, really. Learn more about athlete transitions on our site.

Common Questions About WNBA Player Transitions

Why do WNBA players leave the league early?

Players might leave early for several reasons. Sometimes, it's about pursuing a passion outside of basketball, like Maya Moore's work in justice reform. Other times, it could be for personal reasons, like starting a family or dealing with injuries. Financial opportunities outside the league can also play a part. It's often a very personal decision, you know?

Do WNBA players have other jobs during their careers?

Yes, many WNBA players have had other jobs or played overseas during their careers. This is often due to the WNBA's shorter season and, historically, lower salaries compared to other professional sports. Playing internationally can provide additional income and keep skills sharp. So, it's pretty common for them to juggle things, basically.

What happens to WNBA players after retirement?

After retirement, WNBA players go on to do a wide variety of things. Some, like those we've talked about, move into media, coaching, or executive roles within sports. Others pursue careers completely outside of basketball, using their education or developing new skills. They might become entrepreneurs, advocates, or educators. It's, like, a whole new chapter for them, too.

Looking Ahead for Former WNBA Players

The future for former WNBA players looks very bright, and it's full of possibilities. As the league grows and gains more attention, the platforms available to its players, both during and after their careers, also grow. This means more opportunities for them to make a mark in various fields. It's a good time to be a WNBA player, even after the playing stops, you know?

We'll likely see more players following paths like Renee Montgomery's, taking on ownership roles or executive positions. The increasing visibility of women's sports also opens doors in broadcasting and media for people like Sue Bird and Candace Parker. Their voices are becoming very important. It's, like, they're shaping the conversation, too.

The dedication and resilience that make these athletes great on the court serve them very well in their next ventures. Whether it's fighting for justice, leading a team from the sidelines, or building a business, they bring that same winning spirit. It's truly inspiring to see how they continue to contribute to the world. You can learn more about women in sports leadership on our site. For more insights into athletes' post-career journeys, you might find interesting stories on ESPN's website, for instance.

Their stories remind us that talent and passion are not limited to one area. These women are showing us all that stepping away from one dream can often lead to the start of an even bigger one. It's a powerful message for anyone thinking about their own next steps, really.

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