Elena Delle Donne Announces Retirement from WNBA, Will Join Monumental Basketball

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two-time WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne officially announced her retirement from professional basketball on Friday. The 35-year-old forward, who leaves an indelible mark on the league, will transition to a role as a special advisor for Monumental Basketball.

Delle Donne, drafted second overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2013 WNBA Draft, was a transformative player in the league. She led the Washington Mystics to their first WNBA Championship in 2019 and earned MVP honors during her tenure with both the Sky and Mystics.

“After much thought and conversations with family, I have finally come to the decision to walk away from playing basketball,” Delle Donne said in a statement. “It was amazing to look back on all the special teammates, friends, executives, sponsors, staff and, most importantly, the incredible fans that have accompanied me on this journey. Thankful does not begin to describe how I am now feeling.”

In her 10 seasons in the league, Delle Donne was named an All-Star seven times and was recognized as one of the WNBA’s 25 greatest players during the league’s 25th anniversary in 2021. She was also a member of the USA Basketball team that won gold in the 2016 Olympics.

<p"Elena Delle Donne has been a transformative force for the Washington Mystics and women’s basketball,” said Monumental Sports & Entertainment Chairman and CEO Ted Leonsis. “Her legacy as a player, leader, and ambassador will leave a permanent mark on the game.”

Noted for her remarkable skill set, Delle Donne is the first player in WNBA history to earn MVP awards with two different teams. During her championship season with the Mystics, she achieved multiple records, including a free throw shooting percentage of 87.5%, a standard that still stands today.

“She understands winning, and she knows how to elevate athletes,” said Monumental Basketball President Michael Winger. “We are fortunate that she wants to continue giving back to basketball and enriching our community.”

Delle Donne’s career statistics average include 19.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game, marking her as one of the most efficient players in league history. Renowned for her shooting accuracy, she boasts a free throw percentage of 93.7%, placing her among the best free throw shooters in basketball.

The Delaware native also emphasized her gratitude toward all who supported her throughout her career. “This game has been my life, and I am grateful for the memories and how much it’s given me,” she remarked. “I can’t wait for what’s next!”

Delle Donne’s retirement follows a series of injury challenges that limited her playing time in recent seasons, where she played just 25 games in 2022 and 23 in 2023. She had opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As she steps away from competitive play, Delle Donne’s new role with Monumental Basketball ensures her continued influence within the sport. She hopes to inspire future generations of players as she embarks on this next chapter.