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Mom Of Prominent WNBA Rookie Dead On Wednesday

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 3:53 PM ET

The basketball community has received heartbreaking news involving the mother of a WNBA rookie.

During the first round of the 2025 WNBA Draft, the Connecticut Sun selected Saniya Rivers with the No. 8 overall pick. She boosted her stock with an impressive 2024-25 season at NC State where she averaged 11.9 points and 6.6 rebounds per game.

Unfortunately, Rivers had a devastating announcement to make this Wednesday afternoon. Her mother, Dee, has passed away.

"I have no words for how I feel right now, I love you so much mom," Rivers wrote on her Instagram Story. "May you rest in peace."

The cause of death for Rivers' mother has not been shared at this time.

WNBA fans and media members are keeping Rivers in their thoughts during this difficult time.

"My heart goes out to my Wolfpack sister Saniya Rivers during this incredibly tough time," Chasity Melvin wrote on X. "Just drafted by the Connecticut Sun, yet facing such deep loss. Sending you my deepest condolences."

"This is so heartbreaking. Former NC State guard and Connecticut Sun first-round pick Saniya Rivers announced the passing of her mother, Dee, on Instagram," Cory Smith said. "The Rivers family was a constant presence inside Reynolds Coliseum during Rivers’ career in Raleigh."

"Prayers up to Saniya Rivers and her family," another person added. "A lot of sad news circulating today. Be kind and spread love. Never know what people are going through."

My heart goes out to my Wolfpack sister Saniya Rivers during this incredibly tough time. Just drafted by the Connecticut Sun, yet facing such deep loss. Sending you my deepest condolences. pic.twitter.com/k3jV332KAm
— Chasity (Chas) Melvin (@chasitymelvin) April 30, 2025

Rivers' mother was with her at the WNBA Draft earlier this month.

It's unclear if Rivers will take time off to process this loss. As of right now, she's set to make her WNBA preseason debut on May 4 against the Seattle Storm.

Our hearts go out to the Rivers family.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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