Chiney Ogwumike is a professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is a two-time WNBA All-Star, the 2014 WNBA Rookie of the Year, and the 2016 AP Comeback Player of the Year.
High School
Ogwumike attended Cy-Fair High School in Cypress, Texas, where she was a four-year varsity starter. She was named the Texas Miss Basketball in 2010 and the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2011.
College
Ogwumike played college basketball for the Stanford Cardinals from 2010 to 2014. She was a four-year starter and a two-time All-American. Chiney helped the Cardinals win the 2012 NCAA championship.
Professional
Ogwumike was drafted first overall by the Connecticut Sun in the 2014 WNBA draft. She was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks in 2016. She has been a regular starter for the Sparks since joining the team. Ogwumike has also played professionally overseas. She has played for teams in Russia, China, and Turkey.
Olympic/National Team
Ogwumike has also been a member of the USA Basketball women’s national team. Chiney won a gold medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Ogwumike is a talented and versatile player. She was also a good defender and a valuable asset to any team that she plays for.
Current Status
Chiney Ogwumike announced her retirement from professional basketball on February 14, 2023, after nine seasons in the WNBA. The two-time All-Star and 2014 Rookie of the Year played for the Los Angeles Sparks and Connecticut Sun during her career.
Ogwumike cited a number of reasons for her decision to retire, including a desire to spend more time with her family and friends, as well as a desire to pursue other interests. She also said that she wanted to focus on her mental and physical health.
“I’ve decided to retire from professional basketball to focus on my mental and physical health,” Ogwumike said in a statement. “I’ve loved my time in the WNBA and I’m grateful for the opportunities it has given me. I’m excited to start this new chapter in my life and I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and friends.”
Since her retirement, Ogwumike has been working as an analyst for ESPN. She has also been involved in a number of philanthropic initiatives, including the Chiney Ogwumike Foundation, which provides educational and athletic opportunities for young women.
Ogwumike is a role model for young women everywhere and her story is an inspiration to all who follow her. She is a strong, independent woman who has achieved great success in her career. Chiney is also a kind and compassionate person who is committed to helping others.
