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Tiffany Hayes, an 11-year WNBA veteran and 2017 All-Star, has announced her retirement from the league. The Connecticut Sun guard made the announcement on the “Counted Me Out” podcast, stating, “It’s the end.” She expressed her gratitude for her time with the Sun, indicating that it was her last season in the WNBA. Hayes, 34, was drafted No. 14 overall in 2012 by the Atlanta Dream and played 10 seasons with the franchise before being traded to the Sun this past offseason. “Its a lot of things,” she explained, referencing her decision to retire. “I really feel like I’m older now. I’ve got a lot of stuff that I really always wanted to get into, but I’m so busy because I’m playing year-round. Plus my body, playing 11 seasons straight with no breaks, every year, two seasons in a year every time — that’s a lot.”
Notably, Hayes expressed her intention to continue playing overseas despite her retirement from the WNBA. This move will allow her to focus on other pursuits, including her business ventures and spending more time with her family. During her 2023 season with the Connecticut Sun, Hayes showcased her prowess, scoring 22 points in a win over the Indiana Fever on Friday, September 8, 2023. She stated, “This right here with the Connecticut Sun was my last season,” emphasizing her departure from the league to pursue other interests.
Hayes, a former standout from the UConn women’s basketball program, had a significant impact during her tenure in the WNBA. The Atlanta Dream selected her with the 14th pick in the second round of the 2012 WNBA Draft, and she dedicated a decade to the team before her move to the Sun. Hayes’ decision to retire from the league emphasizes her desire to explore opportunities beyond basketball and prioritize personal and professional growth.
Furthermore, Hayes’ upcoming focus on international leagues signifies her commitment to continuing her basketball career while attaining a better work-life balance. She expressed her intention to play for Shanghai in the Chinese Women’s Basketball Association during the offseason, alluding to her pursuit of opportunities in the global basketball landscape.
Hayes’ decision to retire from the WNBA has sparked discussions about the challenges and opportunities for female athletes as they navigate their careers and personal aspirations. As one of the key figures in women’s basketball, her retirement marks a significant transition in her professional journey, inviting reflection on the evolving landscape of women’s sports.
As Tiffany Hayes embarks on the next chapter of her career, her retirement from the WNBA serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of athletes’ lives and the significance of pursuing diverse interests beyond the court. While bidding farewell to the league, Hayes remains poised to continue making an impact in the international basketball community and beyond.
