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WNBA Star Speaks Out on Returning to WNBA After Giving Birth
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

WNBA star Skylar Diggins-Smith is opening up about her journey of returning to professional basketball after giving birth. In a recent discussion, she candidly shared the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with her career in the league.

Diggins-Smith recently opened up about the unique challenges and rewards of balancing motherhood with her professional career . In a heartfelt discussion on Angel Reese’s podcast, Diggins-Smith shared her experiences of returning to competitive basketball after giving birth to two children. She emphasized the importance of community among players who are also mothers, highlighting the camaraderie that forms as they navigate both family and sports.


WNBA Star Speaks Out on Returning to WNBA After Giving Birth 5 Sep 11, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins-Smith (4) shoots the ball against LA Sparks forward Dearica Hamby (5) and forward Azura Stevens (23) in the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Being a six-time All-Star, Diggins-Smith is among the few athletes in the league who have successfully returned to the court after childbirth. She described her recovery as an ongoing journey, stating that her body feels like a “third version” of itself. After the birth of her second child, she approached her recovery with more patience and grace than she had after her first, acknowledging the pressure many women face to return quickly to their pre-baby form.

The conversation also touched on the support systems within the league, with Diggins-Smith noting the strides made in recent years. The introduction of charter flights and childcare stipends has helped female athletes manage their dual roles. However, she pointed out that the level of support can vary significantly from team to team, reflecting her past frustrations during her time with the Phoenix Mercury.

WNBA Star Skylar Diggins-Smith Speaks Out on Returning After Giving Birth


WNBA Star Speaks Out on Returning to WNBA After Giving Birth 6 Jul 16, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins-Smith (4) shoots the ball in the second half against LA Sparks guard Kia Nurse (10) at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Just recently, Diggins-Smith appeared on Reese’s podcast and spoke about returning to action after giving birth. This can be seen in a video shared by the Unapologetically Show’s account on Instagram.

Diggins-Smith’s candid insights shine a light on the broader issues facing WNBA players who are balancing demanding careers with motherhood. Her commitment to both her family and the sport underscores the unique challenges women face in professional athletics.


WNBA Star Speaks Out on Returning to WNBA After Giving Birth 7 Jul 16, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins-Smith (4) reacts the second half against the LA Sparks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The veteran’s openness about her journey as a mother and athlete is not just inspiring; it also calls for continued support and improvements within the WNBA. As more players share their experiences, the conversation around motherhood in sports will hopefully lead to greater understanding and resources for all athletes.


WNBA Star Speaks Out on Returning to WNBA After Giving Birth 8 Jul 16, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins-Smith (4) dribbles the ball in the second half against the LA Sparks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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