The former Mystics superstar will not leave the organization that she led to a championship in 2019.
On Friday, Monumental Sports and Entertainment officially announced that Elena Delle Donne has retired from the WNBA. This news isn’t unexpected in and of itself. However, Monumental Basketball, the Washington Mystics and Wizards’ parent umbrella, also announced that she will remain with them as a special advisor according to a press release.
Here is what Delle Donne said in a statement.
After much thought, conversations with family, and soul searching I have finally come to the decision to walk away from playing basketball. It was amazing to look back on all the special teammates, friends, executives, sponsors, staff and most importantly the incredible fans that have accompanied me on this journey. Thankful does not begin to describe how I am now feeling. This game has given me so much and I am excited to be able to continue to compete and partake in the pursuit of winning, albeit in a different role with Monumental Basketball.
In addition, Monumental Sports & Entertainment CEO Ted Leonsis said the following in the same release.
Elena Delle Donne has been a transformative force for the Washington Mystics and women’s basketball. A champion and MVP on and off the court, her legacy as a player, leader, and ambassador will leave a permanent mark on the game, and on generations of young women, for years to come. We’ll miss her on the court. But we’re glad she’ll still be with us, shaping the next chapter for Monumental Basketball and all we’re building. Elena’s impact has been immeasurable, and we’re eager to see how she’ll keep pushing the game, just in a different way.
Finally, Monumental Basketball President Michael Winger said the following about Delle Donne.
One of the greatest players of all time, and one of only two named Most Valuable Player for two different franchises. Elena knows what individual greatness and team success look like. She understands winning, and she knows how to elevate athletes, a team, and an organization. We are so fortunate that Elena wants to spend part of her next chapter giving back to basketball, contributing to the development and achievements of our program, and continuing to enrich our community. Congratulations to Elena on an extraordinary playing career, thank you for serving as a role model to so many, and welcome home!
The press release, including statements by Delle Donne, Leonsis and Winger are definitely important. It also gives the Mystics the most clarity they have going forward since they parted ways with then-General Manager Mike Thibault and Head Coach Eric Thibault. Sure, Jamila Wideman is the new General Manager, but she is a novice. And though the Mystics are clearly looking to move on from the Mike Thibault Era, it also makes sense that they would try to keep some of their best players in some kind of capacity after they retire. Delle Donne now has made it clear that she intends to represent Washington in that capacity.
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