Sky’s the Limit: Skylar Diggins-Smith Shines Bright in WNBA Free Agency Spotlight

PHOTO: BARRY GOSSAGE/NBAE VIA GETTY

In the ever-evolving drama of WNBA Free Agency, there’s one name that’s stealing the spotlight and commanding attention like never before – Skylar Diggins-Smith. The six-time All-Star and four-time All-WNBA First Teamer is on the market and arguably the biggest free agent in recent WNBA history. But, this isn’t just about a team’s success on the court; it’s about a star demanding her rightful place in the league as a player and a mother. Are y’all ready? Because WNBA Free Agency is live, and the Skylar Sweepstakes have begun!

Let’s rewind and relish Skylar’s remarkable journey through the WNBA. It goes beyond accolades; it’s a tale of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.

During the 2018 season, Skylar showcased her superhero abilities while donning a Dallas Wings jersey. She revealed after the season that she played while pregnant, leaving fans in awe of her phenomenal play that led to her fourth All-Star nod. However, the 2019 season, which she sat out, brought a different kind of challenge – postpartum depression and a rocky relationship with the Dallas Wings organization.

That led to a sign-and-trade to the Phoenix Mercury, where she joined forces with Diana Taurasi and fellow “Three to See” draft mate, Brittney Griner.

Fast forward to 2022, Skylar’s third season with the Mercury. After falling short to the Chicago Sky in the 2021 WNBA Finals, the mentality this season was “championship or bust.” While the expectations were high, this Phoenix Mercury team faced a variety of issues, including injuries and Brittney Griner’s wrongful detainment in Russia.

Diggins-Smith was on a mission this season to rewrite the narrative despite the struggles that emerged throughout. In 30 games of play, she averaged 19.7 points per game, 5.5 assists per game, and 1.5 steals per game; which earned her fourth All-WNBA First Team honor.

With only two games left to play in the 2022 season, the Mercury announced that Skylar would miss the remainder of the season for “personal reasons.” Months later, Diggins-Smith revealed she was expecting her second child in October. Yet another season playing while pregnant, leading the league in minutes?!? Talk about superhero vibes 2.0!

Then came August 2023, the month Skylar took to the virtual streets of X (formerly Twitter) to air her grievances against the Mercury organization. Practice facility denied, resources off-limits – Skylar laid it all out (as she should).

With the 2024 WNBA Free Agency in full swing, the league is on the edge of its seat. Skylar Diggins-Smith is a game-changer and teams are scrambling to secure this star. But it’s not just about team fit; as a mother, Skylar demands respect, proper treatment, and adequate resources – and rightfully so.

So, the question echoes across the basketball universe: Which team will land the star? Skylar Diggins-Smith is more than an athlete; she’s a force, a symbol of resilience, and deserves an organization that checks all of her boxes. Get your popcorn and prepare for a grand reveal – the Skylar Sweepstakes is on, and we’re all tuned in!