Photo: Harry How/Getty
WNBA legend Maya Moore is hanging up her jersey.
Moore, who the Minnesota Lynx drafted in 2011, announced her retirement during an interview withGood Morning Americaon Monday. The 33-year-old last played in 2018 before taking a hiatus from the league.
“It’s time to put a close to the pro basketball life,” she toldGMA. “I walked away four seasons ago, but I wanted to officially retire.”
Moore was one of the most dominant players in the WNBA during her career, earning multiple All-Star honors and leading the Lynx to four championships. She was also a member of the U.S. Olympic team that won gold medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.
She added: “Ever since I was drafted in 2011, the state of Minnesota, Lynx organization and fan base welcomed me with open arms and supported me throughout my entire career.”
Maya Moore and Jonathon Irons.Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
In addition to her success on the court, Moore has advocated for better pay and working conditions for WNBA players.
“Maya Moore has forever left a mark on the state of Minnesota, the Minnesota Lynx franchise and the hearts of Lynx fans everywhere,” Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx owner Glen Taylor said in a statement. “Maya’s accolades are numerous; her leadership and talent both fearless and inspirational set the foundation for the most exciting and historic championship run in the league from 2011-2017.”
“While today culminates Maya’s basketball career, there is no doubt she will continue to impact the game we all love,” he continued. “We wish Maya all the best and will root for her always.”
Moore stepped away from the WNBA in 2019 to focus on criminal justice reform and supportJonathan Irons, a former prisoner she helped release the following year.
When Irons was 16 years old, he wasarrested for the nonfatal shootingof a white homeowner named Stanley Stotler during a burglary, despite the fact that no DNA, fingerprints, footprints, or any physical evidence ever linked him to the crime.
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Irons was given a 50-year sentence for burglary and assault at the Jefferson City Correctional Center in Missouri.
The two married shortly after Irons was released and welcomed a child in 2022.
source: people.com
