Skip to content

LEAGUES News

Report: 2-time WNBA MVP Delle Donne to take hiatus

The Washington Post / Getty

Two-time WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne is taking an indefinite break from basketball and doesn't intend to sign the one-year supermax contract offer she received from the Washington Mystics, sources told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne.

Delle Donne decided this week that she needed more time to ponder her future in the sport, adds Shelburne.

The 34-year-old was among the league's top players at the peak of her career but has struggled to stay healthy in recent years. She was limited to just three appearances in 2021 due to recurring back issues that eventually required surgery.

Delle Donne averaged 16.7 points, 5.4 boards, and 2.1 assists over 23 appearances last season as she earned her seventh All-Star nod. The 6-foot-5 forward led the Mystics to their lone WNBA title in 2019.

Delle Donne's absence is the latest blow for Washington this offseason. The club already lost veteran guard Natasha Cloud to the Phoenix Mercury in free agency.

RELATED NEWS

104 MPH IN 107.1 MPH OUT Lourdes Gurriel Jr. ties it!
D-Backs' Gurriel homers off Miller's 104-mph pitch, setting pitch-tracking era record 😱
Devin Williams joins the media to reflect on his performance...
Yankees' Williams laments continued struggles: 'Don't really know what to say'
2 at-bats, 2 HOME RUNS for Max Muncy!
Dodgers' Muncy crushes 2nd HR of game for 4th multi-HR contest this year 💪
467 FEET OFF THE UPPER DECK FOR DAULTON VARSHO 🤯
Varsho uncorks a mammoth blast for his 2nd HR vs. Rockies 😲
Stott what you're doing and watch this amazing play 😮
Phillies' Stott ranges into short right to make great spinning play on grounder 😯