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Sun Rookie Was Emotional After Her WNBA Debut

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated May 21, 2025 12:12 AM ET

It was an emotional Tuesday night for Connecticut Sun rookie Saniya Rivers. The first-year player suited up for the first time in her WNBA career against the Las Vegas Aces. She had a promising outing despite the 87-62 loss.

Rivers had 11 points, four rebounds and two assists on 42.9% shooting from the field. She came off the bench and played 25 minutes. However, it wasn't enough for the Sun to overcome the A'ja Wilson-led Aces squad, as they fell to a 0-2 record.

Following the game, Rivers talked about what it meant to her to step foot in the professional scene for the first time. She was emotional given that her mother, Demetria "Dee" Rivers, passed away before the team's training camp started.

After the game, she couldn't help but be emotional in front of the media.

"I've been trying not to cry like all day," Rivers said as she held her tears, Maggie Vanoni of CT Insider reported.

"This night meant the world to me because this is what she wanted for me. I never thought I'd be here. I wish she was here to see it."

Rivers credited head coach Rachid Meziane and the coaching staff for helping her through a difficult time in her life. According to the rookie, Meziane and the staff have been "consistent and understanding and loving."

After her time on the floor, Rivers shared a moment with her head coach. She hugged the French coach on her way to the bench.

Saniya Rivers checks out of her WNBA debut and hugs head coach Rachid Meziane before receiving a loud applause from the crowd

The rookie finishes with 11 pts, 4 rbs, 2 assists and 2 stealsa
— Maggie Vanoni (@maggie_vanoni) May 21, 2025

Rivers played four years in college and won with South Carolina in her first year. From her sophomore to her senior year, the 6-foot-1 guard played for NC State. She's a two-time ACC All-Defense, a two-time All-ACC and the 2023 ACC Sixth Player of the Year.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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