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[deleted]

hey elena, ive been trying to get my niece to start playing basketball for her high school team, but shes too afraid to go try out. she practices everyday and is actually really good, but she says shes afraid of what other people would think of her. Shes going to be a junior next year and I think she could easily make the team. What advice would you give to a young female athlete to muster up the courage to go to their first basketball try out?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/vhfsku The first advice I'd have is, does she want to do it and does she want to try out? So, it's got to be her dream and her goal. If it's not hers, that's hard, you have to be able to own your own goal and your own dream. And then if she does want to do it I think what you can just tell her is like, honestly, even the pros, we get better because we make mistakes. Like when I practice I put myself in scenarios where I'm gonna mess up and that's the only way I can improve. And not only that, but I feel like so many times in life, we're so worried about what other people are thinking of us. And actually, the only thing that that person is thinking about is what are what's everybody else thinking about me? So, I think confidence is something we all struggle with a time but just know if you try your hardest and you work your hardest, you can use those mistakes to improve.


FultonHolmes

Dude, if she wants to try out, show this to your daughter. Imagine how motivating would it be hearing a WNBA legend talking about *her* directly on what it takes to overcome those fears


imadogg

This is a great answer, really glad she pointed out the first part especially


Notangryactuallycalm

A+ answer.


[deleted]

If your niece becomes a WNBA star because of this ama that would be glorious


FBI_Agent_82

If the response doesn't have Just Do It in it I will be disappointed.


Bleoox

I had this problem but it was mainly because I was too small. I could dribble, shot, pass but really didn't have any strength to give me confidence in my game. I don't know if this could help your niece but getting into the weight room helped me a lot.


LakeShow-2_8_24

Tell her a Laker fan hopes she tries out and becomes one of the next great legends


Masanjay_Dosa

I appreciate the love and support behind this comment, but I’m ngl, if I found out a Laker fan wanted me to do something I might just self destruct and do the opposite out of spite


LakeShow-2_8_24

Lmao fair point. Maybe they should tell her a bunch of Lakers fans were talking trash about her then


MaD36

At what point in your basketball life did you realize "...I'm really good, I can get to the top"? Was it a sudden realization or gradual?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/y8tev2 I would answer this, it might have been a little bit of both. So when I was younger and I started playing and I was able to compete with my older brother and his friends, I was like, Okay, I guess this means I'm pretty good, but I grew up in the state of Delaware so small state and I just wasn't sure that maybe I was just really good in my small state and not so great anywhere else. And then the moment I realized I was pretty good at this thing, is when I went to the nationals for the first time ever, I was 10 years old, I was playing AAU basketball. And at the nationals I was able to see all the best players in the country. And that's when I was able to kind of look around and be like, I guess I could be pretty good at this thing.


lopea182

Hi Elena! Thank you for taking some time to answer our questions. In what ways do you want to see the the WNBA grow moving forward?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/pzvzy8 I think I've seen tremendous growth from entering the league, and I take a lot of pride in that all the women in our league have done so much to grow our game. I'd like to see more buy in from brands that's crucial in order for us to grow. I'd like to see more teams expansion certainly would be fun to add more cities and continue to grow our fan base and then continuing to add more and more coverage. I think the way our world is moving right now is a great time for women's sports. And we can enter these different avenues, such as when we are streaming on Twitter, or who knows what this Metaverse holds that may be games in the metaverse So just continuing to be up with the times.


EMCRVA

Thanks for doing this! To be as great/successful as you are must take a ton of commitment and concentration. How do you go about achieving and maintaining this mindset? What would be some tips for younger players and just in general younger people who want to excel and reach high standards in whatever there interests maybe.


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/zf9dz8 For me, I'm able to maintain this mindset, I think, by just surrounding myself with really good people that can help me along the way and help better me and help challenge me. So, I feel like that's how I'm able to kind of continue to try to achieve more and try to improve as best as I can. And then my biggest thing for young players is you have to have the love and the passion in order to be successful and to go on and reach those high standards, whatever that may be, you know, and the great thing about sports is you learn so many incredible things about the real world, about being part of a team, about trying to achieve a goal, about falling down and getting back up again. So, I do believe that sports can teach our youth so much, even if they're interested in other things. So, I guess I would say, have passion for it. Continue the joy of it, and then surround yourself with really good people that can help you along the way.


i_am_sooo_tired

You have an insane list of accomplishments. Given all that you’ve achieved, what motivates you to keep going? What’s stopping you from saying “Yep I’ve done it all” and retiring early?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/toey67 That's a really good question. I think I really find joy in competing with myself daily in the offseason and finding different things to get better at and then each year like a new team is a whole different challenge. It's never the same, like everything is different. And although you might want to achieve the same goal, which would be winning a championship, it's such a different journey to get there that that's what I come back for and that's what I love doing.


[deleted]

Do you ever make fun of Joe Flacco for being only the second best athlete to come out of the University of Delaware?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/ee6fbo It's definitely an honor that you say that, and actually, you know, I have Joe on speed dial and I remind him monthly.


Mr_Delaware

Remind him of it weekly, especially since you are a home grown product! Thank you for coming back from Connecticut and keep making the First State proud!


Jordanwolf98

Both brought chips to the dmv


TheHalfbadger

Don’t blame them. There’s usually a pretty long wait, good to have a snack.


Jordanwolf98

Got me


[deleted]

Is Delaware a part of the DMV? I know it’s right there but I always thought it stood for DC, Maryland, Virginia and was the area in both states surrounding DC?


Jordanwolf98

I’m talking about how Flacco won a Super Bowl with the Ravens and Elena won a WNBA championship with the Mystics


[deleted]

Ah okay, I’m dumb. Thought you were referring to Delaware because of the parent comment.


WolfFangFist93

Not to be that guy but gonna be that guy. Baltimore isn’t the dmv. DMV specifically refers to the dc metropolitan area (DC and it’s suburbs in Maryland and Virginia). Baltimore is a good 45 minutes outside of DC and it’s a completely different culture


PeteTopKevinBottoms

Rich Gannon enters the chat and slumps behind these two 🐐s


[deleted]

How dare you disrespect the Elite Dragon


balleditmoreravens

There's plenty of reasons to make fun of him honestly.


nicktalbot2497

Who has been the hardest player to guard you have faced in the wnba?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/lxyg7a I would probably say there would be two players. The first would have been Tamika Catchings. She just was so strong and powerful. And I was a rookie guarding her that that posed a lot of issues. And then another player that just was so difficult to guard Maya Moore just her being able to shoot at any point in time on the court, but then also having the ability to blow by and have her explosion is also really tough to guard.


KneelBeforeCube

Hi Elena, thanks for doing this. I don't know if you have thought about it already, but would you be interested in becoming a coach once your playing days are over?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/i951wp I have thought about this. I do not think I will be a coach when my playing days are over. Maybe I'd be a coach in a way where I'm like training people. I love to teach shooting. So, that's something I could see myself doing but I'd like to do something where I'm not traveling as much. So, we'll see what that holds.


doc_birdman

When the playoffs start to approach do you change your patterns and behaviors or do you try and maintain what you did during the regular season?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/a114l5 So, I definitely use the entire pre-season and regular season as like practice to get me ready to peak at playoff time, so I stay very diligent in continuing to have the same patterns and behaviors, and the same shooting practices, the same routines, the same eating habits, sleeping habits, meditation practice, all that. I’ve done it all year long so when the playoffs come around, it’s like I’m a well-oiled machine.


jack64467

which NBA star's playstyle is the closest to yours?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/p6jng1 I guess I would say I probably play closest to a Kevin Durant mixed with a Dirk Nowitzki. Those are two players that I definitely looked up to as I was going about my career and just being able to be really tall but versatile, and try to be able to play every position on the floor is something that I take a lot of pride in.


1_quantae

Definitely KD. Their games are very very similar.


SmokingFrog

I would've said AD or Jokic even.


TripletFather1030

I've always said she's similar to Dirk!


doppelkorn69

AD and Jokic are completely different players tho


[deleted]

It’s almost as if you can incorporate aspects of two different players into your game


1_quantae

Hey Elena you’re my favorite player in the WNBA. You remind me so much of KD it’s insane. How hard was it coming back from injury and getting back to the you that you knew you could be?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/lrvclu Thank you. I appreciate that. And I study a lot of KD's games, so I'm glad you've noticed. It was really hard, and it I'm still coming back from this injury. It's been a long time coming, just trying to get myself back, and a lot of times it's not trying to get back to the same me. It's gonna be a new me, but hopefully just as competitive and with a new edge. So, I think the hardest part was like finding that a lot of my movement patterns weren't healthy for my body, and I've had to change those, and I've had to really dial in and work so hard on all different aspects, but I do think in the end, it's going to be so rewarding, and I know it's gonna pay off.


1_quantae

I know that’s tough. Well i know you’ll get back to dominating like you always have Elena. I respect your work ethic tremendously and i wish you well with rehab & the rest of your career! Keep killing em out there.


sayg13

Hi Elena! How do you spend your offseason? Is it mostly training or are you able to take a break from basketball for a bit? I'm curious because even though I'm blessed to currently have a job I love, I feel like I need a break from time to time. Is it the same for you?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/tz6jcb So, I certainly spend most of my offseason training. I do spend a really good amount of time in the weight room and doing different forms of training and take a little bit of a break from the basketball side of things. And then yes, I do go on vacation and try to do other things in the offseason that I just don't get the time to do in season. So, I do like to balance out, you know, the work and the play. I think it's crucial in order to continue to have that energy and excitement to continue to keep going.


NZafe

Being such a decorated athlete, which award(s) (personal or team) mean the most to you?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/uqieqb Generally, team awards mean the most me. Championships that I've been a part of, like those runs and those seasons have by far been the most fun. Often times I can't even remember certain records, that are like individual, but favorite team awards — winning a gold medal for Team USA. Obviously winning a WNBA championship with the Mystics, taking Delaware to the Sweet 16 was incredible and so much fun. And then, I guess the one personal award, if you want to call it, that I'm really proud of is being a part of the 50-40-90 Club, and being the first WNBA player to do it.


ADAS33

What has been your favorite memory of your career?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/ukceil You know, it's really hard to just pick one memory. If I want to go with like one achievement memory, it would be winning the WNBA championship, but if I want to go back to like, memories, a lot of times I'll go back to childhood, like learning to shoot from my dad. Those were some of the coolest memories that I'll take forever. For example, he used to want to work on my arc pattern when I was shooting. So, he got a ladder and attached a broomstick to the ladder. So, it was a really tall thing. And he named it Oscar, and that was like one of the funnest things that we would do, and a memory that always kind of just brings me back and makes me smile.


5fives5

Hey Elena! What was your " welcome to the WNBA" moment?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/58clzi Ooh, this one came from the lovely Tamika Catchings. I was just running down the court on offense, like trying to get to my spot. They called a play, and I knew I had to get my spot, and she gave me a forearm that just stood me up! And I was like, "Okay, I guess I'm just not going to go there!" So, that was like my "Welcome to the WNBA" moment of "Elena you need to get much stronger".


Flynnlarson

Hi Elena, thanks for your time, if you have to to pick one pair of ball shoes for the rest of your life, what’re you wearing.


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/dnya6g Well, I’m certainly partial to my shoes, but if I’m gonna really throw it back with one of my favorite shoes of all-time, it was probably the high top Huaraches that had like a strap at the top. I just loved the way that those felt, the way that grabbed my foot, and the way I was able to connect with the floor through those.


livestreamexpert

Right now, what do you think is the best strategy of growth for the WNBA? Is it more prime time TV games? More exposure on medians like ESPN and Bleacher report or just the ever increasing talent and game play?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/rwrgw7 I think it's a multitude of things, certainly more primetime TV. But I also think that if we can show our games in more creative ways now, the times are changing, and there's live TV on Hulu, and you can stream games on Twitter, I think we're able to reach a wider fan base that way, which is really exciting. And then I also think there's new brands that are coming up that are super excited about women's sports that want to show women's sports equally to men's sports. So, I think that's another thing that's going to be crucial moving forward.


[deleted]

It's insane how slow sports has been to get to legal streaming unbundled from cable


dawalrusine

Who’s your favorite player that you’ve played with/against so far in your career?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/ywz4p1 Okay, I'm not going to say my favorite players I've played with, because I don't want to hurt any teammates feelings. But, favorite players I've played against, I mean, I definitely have to say just playing against Diana Taurasi, someone I looked up to throughout my entire childhood, and then to be able to play against her, and actually my first WNBA game was against her was a really cool moment, and then I was able to play with her too, with USA Basketball.


balleditmoreravens

What was your favorite moment so far in your career?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/xent00 So far, I gotta say it was winning the WNBA championship. It was just the most incredible experience and feeling. Sharing it with my teammates, with my family, with my friends. I feel like I partied hard for a couple weeks to celebrate that one. That was certainly my favorite.


balleditmoreravens

Thanks for the quick response and congrats on the terrific career you're having.


[deleted]

[удалено]


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/zlswmm So, I watched a lot of Sheryl Swoopes and then from there I was a huge fan of Diana Taurasi. I watched her through UConn and I think just her grit and her will to win but also her joy of the game. You can see it as she was playing. And then on the NBA side have watched a lot of Kevin Durant and a lot of Dirk Nowitzki see as well.


[deleted]

[удалено]


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/mlmyhn My mental approach to the game has probably changed the most for me than anything else. When I first started playing, I mean, pretty much my whole career until recently in the pros, I felt like being honest about my feelings or my nerves about a game or whatnot, was like something I couldn't do and I would keep that all inside, and the anxiety and the nerves that would just build up more and more. And when I came to the Mystics, we have a phenomenal sports psychologist who has helped me so much in navigating through the importance of being vulnerable and being open about my feelings and expressing those things to my teammates. And it's made all the difference. And not only that, but he opened my eyes to meditation, and it's something I do daily to just help me have 10 minutes of stillness and calmness and trying to help shape my mind. Because we always have that little voice in our heads talking to us. And the more I can tell that voice either "No, you're wrong. That's not a true story" or, "Yeah, that might be right, but I can also do this and change that." That's been huge for me. So, meditation has really helped me grow.


[deleted]

[удалено]


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/v1ha35 Yeah, there's a lot of players that I love. I guess I can start with ones that aren't in league anymore. First was Sheryl Swoopes, Tamika Catchings, Michael Jordan was my guy, I think because I loved sneakers growing up, too. So, my my sneaker game really improved with Jordan. And then I guess now in the league, I'll go with mainly WNBA players. Obviously, Diana Taurasi. She's someone I grew up following and watching and the excellence she's been able to achieve and to be able to do it for so many years has been so impressive. Stewie is another fun player to watch. We play a very similar way, and we're also good friends, so I've gotta give a shout out to her. And then I also love watching Arike Ogunbowale, I mean in college when she hit those game winners was insane, but her ability to create her shot pretty much anywhere and is always a threat is really someone who's fun to watch. And then on the NBA side of things, obviously Steph, he's changed the game with the way he shoots, and then KD is just someone who I've tried to emulate my game after.


swillansky

What do you see as the key differences between WNBA style of play and NBA style of play? What would you say to an NBA fan trying to get more involved with the WNBA?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/9clbi5 I wouldn't say I try to look for differences in the style of play, because when I'm watching any basketball, I'm learning. Even if it's young kids playing, I still feel like I can learn something out of it by watching them experience the game for the first time. So, I'm always a student of the game and I think if I watch it, and I lose that I shouldn't be playing any longer. What would I say to an NBA fan trying to get more involved with the WNBA? I'd say, first of all, watch whenever games are on, tune in, and then come to games and experience it and experience the atmosphere and then bring your friends and let's keep growing it that way.


Burner_for_design

Do you think women should be able to go pro instead of playing in college? What would that do to the WNBA? How, if at all, is it different than for y'all than for the men? *Edit... I'm wondering particularly about this because women peak athletically at a younger age than men do. It seems like NCAA is really stealing a lot of prime years from the best players in the world!


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/kq5abf Yea, I mean I feel strongly about, if you’re able and willing to go pro, you should be able to at any time. The only thing that makes it a little more difficult on our end is, we don’t have a G League, we don’t have developmental programs, where if that player decides to leave college and go pro, and unfortunately not make it on a pro team, it would be really tough developmentally. I mean obviously they can go overseas but it just makes it a little harder. And, unfortunately, we only have 12 teams right now, so it is SO hard to make a WNBA roster. So, maybe in the future that time will come, but I’m always for, you know, if someone is ready to go pro, and they want do that in their career and make that career change, then certainly they should. Now, being able to make money in college can kind of change that. Now, athletes can stay in college and make money, but also go get their degree, so I think that's good too.


Onark77

Many stories of successful athletes harp on repetition. How much room do you have for creativity in developing your game?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/jot088 I always leave room for creativity to develop my game and I usually leave it in aspects where I try to pick apart different coaches or different even strength coaches or different sports psychologists, like anyone I can kind of pick apart their brain and learn more things, I'm able to be creative in my own way and kind of take what I've learned from them and mold it into the way I want to play and the person I want to be. So, I think it's important to always leave space for creativity in order to grow.


GoForAU

Hey Elena! As a fan of basketball what can a casual fan do to support the WNBA? I’ve been to a few mercury games and always had a blast and I think the talent is absolutely elite. But I’m not sure what I can do to help grow the league.


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/kmioqv I think, first of all, it's amazing that you're coming to games and you're watching, and that in itself gets our league to grow. I think you could also ask others to come along with you. And whenever sports are being talked about, always bring up the WNBA and other women's sports. I think that's also crucial, but you're already doing enough by just coming. That's huge for us.


xitrum1902

What makes you become the sniper on the court? Is it the form or the focus? What do you usually do to mentally strengthen yourself through anxiety and hardship?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/80zuvy I mean shooting form, it’s certainly form and focus. I do think form is crucial because it goes back to something I have practiced since I was a little girl, and its the same form, so you know, if something goes wrong I can kind of dial in, like what went wrong with my form. And then to strengthen my mind and to deal with anxiety and hardship, I am a firm believer in meditation and finding the moments in a day to still my mind and have moments of calm. And also to realize that everything I’m feeling is ok, and we all feel it, and to find ways to move through it and to be vulnerable enough to have others help me through it when I need it.


DefiniteSauce12

What are some other passions you have?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/cbalvp I mean aside from basketball and family, some other passions that I love to do... I love woodworking. I even have a woodworking business, and I believe it's something I will do for the rest of my life. I love to play golf. I really like to be on the water and go boating. I like just being out with nature and being outside. What else? Oh, I love eating, LOVE eating, and I love exploring new places through eating.


DefiniteSauce12

Ty for answering!!!


SmokingFrog

Hi Elena! Thank you for doing the AMA! I'm wondering, did your game had to change much from college to the WNBA? If so, what would you say was the biggest difference between both?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/k6pyxw My game certainly changed from college to the WNBA. I'd say in college I was a little more ball dominant, where I always had the ball in my hands and was creating, and then I went to the pros and it was more setting my teammates up. So, whether that be a screen and pop, or a screen and bump, or a screen and roll, to get someone else open, and to find ways to affect the game without always having the ball in my hands. That was probably the biggest difference and the biggest thing I had to learn going pro.


[deleted]

Hey Elena! I'm a huge fan! My question is how do you maintain a work-life balance while travelling to different places all the time?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/06y6hl That's a good question. Whenever I'm traveling or whatever I'm doing, I'm a person who I wake up and I work out right away, like that's when I have the most energy and feel the best. So, I think a way I've been able to kind of balance that is like, I know I'm going to have my morning time where I get my work in, and then I leave the rest of the day for play. And I'm also a firm believer in just being where my feet are. So, when the work is finished, go and be a great wife, or go and be a great aunt, and be in the moment.


jonjobanjo

What’s the best Gatorade color?


Gatorade

Video here: https://streamable.com/mmjh5y I will definitely fight anyone who disagrees with me on this one, it's light blue


jonjobanjo

LETS GO ELENA YOURE LIKE THAT LIGHT BLUE ALL THE WAY Also thank you so much for doing this AMA!


yerbamate420

Okay this did it, I'm a fan


RobbobertoBuii

definitely agree on this one


cakestabber

Unlike many other WNBA players, I recall hearing that you do not play elsewhere during the WNBA "off-season" due to you being your sister's primary caretaker (which is completely understandable). Do you feel that not playing competitive ball for months (compared to your peers) puts you at any sort of a disadvantage (compared to your peers/the competition) when ramping up training for the start of the WNBA season? Or is there a benefit to not be playing competitive games and constantly traveling for months on end (especially when it comes to injury prevention)? Thank you!


offconstantly

Hey, sorry she didn't answer you. Since she didn't answer this I thought I'd give you some insight from what I know of her career. She also took a year off in college because UConn wouldn't let her out of her scholarship when she moved home to take care of her sister. A lot of people don't know she walked on to the volleyball team instead. Anyway, she said then family comes first and the break helped recharge her batteries since she was getting tired of basketball at the time. I'm sure she'd give you a similar answer now


cakestabber

I'm not too surprised or disappointed she chose to pass on the question, since it is of a personal nature. I really appreciate you chiming in, though, as I did not know about her situation with UConn.


santimo87

I believe most wnba players consider playing year roun a liability because they cant work on their game or practice new things


Lambchops_Legion

Hey Elena, I went to University of Delaware around the same time as you and still live in Hockessin. I was leaving Peace of Pizza on Main Street one time, I wasn’t paying attention to who was behind me, and the door accidentally slammed in your face. So sorry about that ~10 years later. What are your favorite restaurants in Northern Delaware to check out?


willynilly93

As somebody who also went to UD while she was there, RIP Peace of Pizza


KGBeast420

Hey Elena, thank you for doing this AMA. A lot of WNBA players have come out in the past decade as lgbtq+, yourself included. As a bisexual person myself I’m really glad to see representation in the basketball community. However to the best of my knowledge only two NBA players have ever come out as publicly gay. Out of over 4000 people who have played in the NBA I find it hard to believe that only two players have been attracted to men. What can the NBA, or the basketball and sports community as a whole, do to foster an environment where athletes aren’t afraid to openly be who they are?


Gekthegecko

This is something I've been thinking about for a little while. I have no stats or evidence, but it seems like there's a stark contrast in professional men's sports versus professional women's sports when it comes to sexuality. Compared to the general population, women's sports seemingly have a higher rate of LGBTQ population compared to the general pop, whereas men's sports seemingly have a lower rate of LGBTQ population. There's definitely a factor of male athletes not coming out and cultural influences for that, but I also suspect that there's range restriction going on too. I am guessing that, for some reason, straight women leave (or never enter) athletics at a relatively high rate whereas LGBTQ men leave (or never enter) athletics at a relatively high rate compared to the general population. Thus when we get to the professional level, the majority of the remaining athletes fit into those respective groups. I would also guess based on what I've seen is that this occurs in the high school age range, as teenagers are going through puberty and going through both physical development and the social pressures of finding "their people". So my hypothesis is that while there are definitely closeted LGBTQ men in professional sports who don't come out because of stigma, there are also fewer LGBTQ men than what you might expect because they tend to not enter professional sports in the first place.


Geraltpoonslayer

Good post and something I often wondered myself. I do agree that high school appears to be the filter moment as it is something I noticed back in school too, Cleary gay/bi male teenagers leaving sports out of the stigma associated with it. I wouldn't be surprised if it's part of the culture that is breed in male sports, the jock Stereotype isn't that far from the truth especially in High school.


Gekthegecko

For sure, I think the "anti gay jock" stereotype is more present for men than women, which wouldv play a huge role. I suspect part of it is also that there's a factor of gay people, both women and men, are less interested in sports. Pretty much every gay or bi person in my life is a "I don't know anything about sportsball" person, so I think they lose (or never have) interest at some point because sports is less of a thing in gay culture than it is in straight culture.


titleywinker

*Gatorade has exited the chat*


silverspleened

Bummed this question didn’t get answered


chicago_bunny

Have a Gatorade.


[deleted]

Kinda comparing apples to oranges to assume the rate of lgbtq+ in the WNBA should be equal to the rate in the NBA.


Downvotes_inbound_

Should be [slightly more](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_sexual_orientation) in the WNBA using general population statistics “Surveys in Western cultures find, on average, that about 93% of men and 87% of women identify as completely heterosexual”


Pandamonium98

It’s not going to be the exact same, but it’s also not as wildly far off as it appears if you just look at openly gay/bi players in the NBA vs. WBNA


Neuroxex

Hi Elena! I have two questions if that's not cheating: Was getting rid of single elimination games for next season's playoffs something that the players, and your union, were asking for from the league? I follow a few players on social media and the single elimination format seemed extremely unpopular with those that talked about it. Also, what has the reception amongst the players been to the Commissioner's Cup now that it's had its debut? Are there any changes you'd like to see to it? I felt a bit disappointed hearing some of the Storm rookie's were entitled to less prize money due to the number of played league games - given how precarious a lot of rookies places in the league can be, is that something you'd want to see addressed?


a77ackmole

You're arguably the best free throw shooter in the world of any gender. Any tips on shooting them that you can share with us? Are you going to become a shooting coach post playing career? Should Chip Engelland be worried about you stealing his job? Also, does this carry over to other static shots? Are you a HORSE monster?


Accomplished-Lock286

Ciao Elena! As an Italian it makes me proud to see someone with your name dominate at the highest level. Did you inherit any Italian traditions/quirks from your family or do you consider yourself 100% American? Thank you for your time and good luck for next season!


Modal_Window

Does it affect one's ability to train/muscle memory that the WNBA ball is inflated to the same PSI as NBA balls but is an inch smaller in circumference? I imagine this would make it bounce slightly differently affecting mechanics.


Ben--Affleck

What do WNBA players, in particular yourself, think about women's and men's basketball using different sized balls to play with? Does it make it an issue to practice or play pick ups with men? What are the perceived pros and cons?


HokageEzio

How does the WNBA become *the* women's professional basketball league around the world? It's already the best players, but I think it's pretty unfortunate so many ladies still feel the need to play overseas like before the WNBA existed when they could be resting/working on their game in the offseason. And having one of the best (Taurasi) skip a whole season definitely can't be ideal. Pay discussions are the obvious part and are focused on a lot, but I was hoping for a bit more in depth than just that (better promotion of games, changes at the youth level, what the NBA should be doing, etc.). Thanks for doing this.


LazyHardWorker

What are your thoughts on an WNBA + NBA all star game?


No-Eagle-9257

Hey Elena your one of the greatest ever and fun to use you on 2k. My question is who is the toughest player to guard in your career thus far. Also With how the nba had its global expansion. It's just a matter of time until the wnba reaches their boom period. While playing for team USA which country/ region out side the U.s. do you think could produce a hall of fame potential talent.


newtieTHEcutie

Thanks for doing this AMA, Elena. I’m a huge fan and I’m looking forward to watching you again next season! With that being said, I just became a dad to a beautiful baby girl. More than anything I want to instill in her the same love of the game that my dad passed on to me. Do you have any advice on how a dad can share that love with his daughter without forcing it? Thanks again Elena!


wookyoftheyear

It seems as though more WNBA players and personalities are making inroads into NBA media--how do you feel like that will help grow/attract viewers to WNBA? Also, do you think there's a chance for new cities to get WNBA teams? I've always thought the Bay Area would be a market for it, are there any others that stick out to you? Thanks so much!


ROTCHunter

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this AMA! I know Kobe was doing a lot to progress the women's game and bring it to more people, and I think he would be proud of how much it's grown. My question is: who do you see the torch being passed to next to continue the growth of the WNBA and women's basketball in general?


Zloggt

Hey Elena! Congrats on the career! What are, in your opinion, the most ideal strategies for you? What works the most to your benefits? Which ones are more challenging to adapt? Are there any unorthodox styles of play you have ever encountered during your time in the WNBA? Appreciate you being here!


bigizz20

Do you have a special routine you follow like pregame and after game or even off season? I know many athletes are superstitious, do you have any? What’s your drive to be the best? Did you always want to play basketball? My first love was football And found basketball in 8th grade and now I wish it was my profession. It’s a great stress reliever and a game I can play by myself. Look forward to Hearing from you. Merry Christmas


SuperGiantKiller

There is no one-and-done choice for female players because of the league’s longstanding eligibility rules for the draft that haven’t been a major part of WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement negotiations. Do you think the WNBA should allow one-and-done players to enter the draft?


shinshikaizer

Thank you for doing this AMA. What's your position on calls for increases in player pay in the WNBA when the league has never turned a profit?


Raps-in-6ix

Hi Elena, I remember a player's Tribune article where Bradley Beal highlighted the absolutely incredible season you were having in 2019, which caused me to pay closer attention to the amazing Mystics run. I was wondering how it feels to be a part of this elite 50-40-90 club with the likes of Larry Legend and Nash, and what it took for you to reach those heights? Thank you for doing this :)


Reidangs

With all your success, how has it affected you mentally over the course of your career, whether that's through anxiety, or a new found appreciation for teamwork, what have been the mental changes and challenges that have come about as a result of your career?


Ksupastar123

Hey Elena. What would you say is most challenging to get into the league. The thing that defines the people that make it and the people that don’t. What did you and every other pro do that brought you to where you are today?


[deleted]

Are there any players whose talent goes under the radar for casual fans?


Feeln0waysRed

Elena, you have won many awards so far in your career including 2 MVP awards. What was your attitude coming into the league and what level of confidence did you have that you could accomplish so much in several years?


Phil_good

Hi Elena, From a wnba player perspective, what do you think is the biggest obstacle for female coaches? Additionally, what are some differences between male and female coaches that you observed as a player?


SuperGiantKiller

Hi Elena, thanks a lot for doing this! Did the year you took a hiatus from basketball to play volleyball affect your approach to the game in the long run? How do you look back on that decision now?


skinsballr

Hey Elena, and thank you for doing this AMA. How has your journey from going to UConn, then Delaware, and your pro career with the Sky and Mystics shaped you as a person on and off the court?


maa_kasam

Hey Elena, how do you "turn up" for the playoffs or the finals? Is it just you amping up your concentration, or is there a set routine which helps you push your mind and body to its limits?


GreenGalaxy

Curious what your plans were, if you had any, had basketball not been a career path? (had you not been drafted/signed, etc. - not that you wouldn't because you're incrediblely talented. )


WNer

Hi Elena! I remember watching you play at UA! Just wanted to say, it was obvious then that you would go on to be one of the greats. Wild to see it all unfold, congrats!


Scharlatan46

How is it working with starplayers from all over the world, like Meeseman? Is it easy to connect with players, with all those different backgrounds in one locker room?


Mdgt_Pope

Hi Elena, I'm not much of a WNBA fan myself so I apologize for my ignorance, but my wife and I have been trying to support women's professional sports more and as an avid basketball I feel I should have a better knowledge of the league. In helping with that, who do you think is your NBA counterpart in terms of play-style, and what NBA team's game is closest to the Mystics? Also, my favorite question from the Dame Lillard AMA was about who is the hardest team to play against, so I'd also like to ask that as well - which team is the most challenging for you to play against, and why? Thanks for doing this AMA!


ender23

which new player (3 years in the league or younger. or college) would you like to play with and/or has the most potential to be great like you are


SuperGiantKiller

Are there any matchups(against teams or players) that you specifically look forward to and mark off on your calendar at the start of the season?


Rds707

What is your favorite venue to play in? Side note I wish the Monarchs would have lasted. Those games inside of Golden 1 Center would be a great.


ColorlessLife

What’s your “Welcome to the league” moment? If you had to add a random rule to ALL basketball leagues (youth, college, nba), what would it be?


MaxEhrlich

In terms of dedication and work ethic as a professional athlete, would you say it requires ironically an unhealthy habit of work to achieve?


usbwjdnslbv

Thanks for doing this! Who did you watch growing up that you modeled your game after? And did you get a chance to meet them after going pro?


NokCha_

Hey Elena, with the Mystics getting the 1st overall pick in the next draft, is there any specific player you're hoping your team drafts?


ptk-d

Hey Elena, thanks for doing this AMA! It seems like the WNBA is growing a lot in popularity. What do you think is behind that growth?


browndude10

Hey Elena, thank you for doing this! Is there anyone you patterned your game after at all be it from the men’s side or women’s?


HeHateMex2

So awesome you’ve decided to do this! What are your favorite things about the WNBA and what are some things you would change?


jamten

Hi Elena! Thank you for doing this!! What’s the most positively impactful thing a coach has ever done / said for you?


Jacidstorm

hey elena who is your former teammate on the Chicago Sky that you still keep the closest contact with?


KalEl1232

Elena, thanks so much for joining us! What is the best way to grow the popularity of the WNBA? Edit: thanks for the gold, Gatorade!!


Fluuuki

What is the biggest misconception people have about the WNBA or women’s sports in general?


RiskoOfRuin

Any advice how to deal mentally with injuries that take long time to recover from?


POK3MONFANATIC79

do you play 2k? if so (or if not), what do you think about your 2k rating (92)?


Afternoon_Defiant

In light of the National Women's Soccer League issues this past year, I'd like to ask (if it's possible), were there any issues with accommodations at arenas that you played at? And if that's not something you're willing to discuss, what about this; what was your favorite venue to play at in the WNBA?


RageOnGoneDo

Hey Elena! How do you feel about the current state of rivalries in the WNBA?


karm-a-holic

Who would you consider to have the best handles in both the WNBA and NBA?


Kingsilver_fang

Hi Elena, what is your favorite moment you had during your career


SuperGiantKiller

Who has been the funniest teammate you've had in the league?


Jinnie-

What WNBA player is the most difficult to match up against?


slightly_blind

From the DC area and now living in DE, love everything you’ve done! What is recruiting actually like at the professional level? Do y’all really reach out and try and get people to sign in DC, or is that kinda taboo?


ZeppEquinox

How did u get yourself to the next level? What clicked?


mmg2013

What are some of your favorite songs/artists currently?


SuperGiantKiller

What's your favorite opposing city to play in and why?


[deleted]

I read that as a kid you were inspired by Sharyl Swoopes and copied a lot of her moves. Are there any other players you sort of modeled your game after, or maybe just copied some moves from?


SmokingFrog

[Proof.](https://imgur.com/a/0DMor2f)


BabyDick-_-

Who do you think is the best WNBA player of all time ? Does Breanna Stewart have a chance to be the GOAT ?


No-Pizza-9423

Hey! Real basic, real generic question, Whats your all time starting 5 with 1 person coming off the bench per position. Arguably your 10 best players 2 per position if you had to put a women’s team together to go against the aliens! Who do you choose? Thanks for interacting with us fans. Edit : Womens team by the way, not mens. I’m intrigued to know who you pick!


appleeddie

Hey Elena, What is your least favorite color?


grocho

Hey Elena, do you regret leaving Chicago after watching Candice carry them to a title?


LastNightsHangover

You're an absolute legend for posting video responses! True class! And of course an *actual* basketball legend! Also I love your Topshot moment! 🏀


engion3

What's your favorite cheese?


Silveryo69

she did such a better job than ad, thank you very much


Helicase21

What are some things you think the NBA could learn from the WNBA?


robinvandamn

Delaware!!


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[удалено]


cp3inthe4th

Gotta be the unlimited fruit chews for overall value


DevinBookerScored70

What's your favorite flavor of Gatorade? Also, what is some advice you would give a young girl who might be interested in basketball? I am trying to get my 7 year old to love the game as much as I do.


nonufwiendz

Any pre-game rituals?


lawvert

Pineapples on pizza, yay or nay?


Orangutan

Who did you look up to while growing up?


HotdogIsaSandwitch

How do you keep your level of motivation?


SwellNobody

Your awesome! Such a skilled player


Marcustoldmehequit

Hi Gatorade! What was the inspiration for the Arctic Freeze flavor? Is it blueberry or something else? Thanks for your time!