Maya Moore, a legendary figure in women’s basketball, recently had her jersey retired by the Minnesota Lynx. Over her illustrious career, Moore transformed the Lynx into a dynasty, leading them to four WNBA championships and earning numerous accolades, including WNBA MVP in 2014 and Finals MVP in 2013. She averaged over 18 points per game throughout her career and was also a two-time Olympic gold medalist with Team USA. Moore’s impact extended beyond the court, as she paused her career in 2018 to focus on social justice issues, eventually retiring in 2023 ClutchPoints
Maya Moore, one of the greatest players in WNBA history, was honored in a memorable ceremony as the Minnesota Lynx retired her jersey number on Saturday night. The event, filled with emotion and admiration, took place after the Lynx’s 90-80 victory over the Indiana Fever at the Target Center in Minneapolis. Moore’s incredible career with the Lynx, which spanned eight seasons, saw her leading the team to four championships and earning numerous accolades.
During the heartfelt ceremony, Moore received a special tribute, including a custom Jordan brand jacket and gold shoes that highlighted her many achievements. Her jersey now hangs among the legends of the Lynx, making her the fifth player in franchise history to receive this honor, joining Lindsay Whalen, Rebekkah Brunson, Seimone Augustus, and Sylvia Fowles. The event was made even more special by the presence of several former teammates, including Fowles and Brunson, who came to celebrate Moore’s illustrious career.
some mom bitched at us for heckling CC too hard but fuck that it was maya moore jersey retirement night pic.twitter.com/FHDa9zowcK
— toddsworth (@theRealHerBo) August 25, 2024
Moore was drafted as the No. 1 overall pick in 2011 out of UConn and immediately made an impact in the WNBA. She won Rookie of the Year and led the Lynx to a championship in her first season. Moore’s leadership and skill were pivotal as the Lynx reached the WNBA Finals five more times in the next six seasons, capturing three additional titles and establishing one of the most dominant eras in league history.
Throughout her career, Moore collected numerous individual accolades. She was named the WNBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2014, a season in which she averaged a career-high 23.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game. Over her career, she averaged 18.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game and remains the Lynx’s all-time leader in steals and three-point field goals. Moore also holds the record for the most points scored in WNBA Finals history with 441 points. Additionally, she contributed to Team USA’s success on the international stage, winning gold medals in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.
In 2019, Moore made the surprising decision to step away from basketball, focusing instead on her family and her non-profit organization, “Win With Justice.” Her advocacy work played a crucial role in the release of Jonathan Irons, who had been wrongfully convicted and imprisoned for 23 years. Following his release, Moore and Irons married, and they welcomed their first child in 2022. Moore officially announced her retirement from the WNBA last year, closing the chapter on a remarkable basketball career but continuing her journey of impact off the court.
The timing of Moore’s jersey retirement coincided with a game featuring Caitlin Clark, a rising star who has sparked renewed interest in women’s basketball. Clark and Moore share a special connection; Moore surprised Clark during a college basketball event, creating a moment of deep admiration for Clark, who warmed up for the game wearing a Moore shirt. Reflecting on her first meeting with Clark at a basketball camp, Moore expressed joy in seeing Clark’s growth and potential. “It’s amazing to think one of those young girls became Caitlin Clark,” Moore remarked. “It shows the importance of being present, treating people with kindness, and understanding the influence you can have.”
Lynx vs Fever followed by Maya Moore’s jersey retirement. What a night! #WNBA pic.twitter.com/fFuVmXiaJU
— Zach Dougherty (@Zach_Dougherty8) August 25, 2024
On the same night as Moore’s jersey retirement, the Lynx secured a 10-point win over the Indiana Fever, clinching a spot in the playoffs. Napheesa Collier led Minnesota with an impressive 31 points, while Caitlin Clark shined for the Fever, scoring 23 points and adding eight assists. The evening was a perfect blend of celebrating the past and looking toward the future, with Moore’s legacy serving as an inspiration for generations to come.
Key Points:
i. Maya Moore was honored by the Minnesota Lynx with the retirement of her jersey number, celebrating her impactful career and four WNBA championships.
ii. Moore, a six-time All-Star and the 2014 MVP, led the Lynx to one of the most dominant periods in WNBA history and set the record for most points in WNBA Finals history.
iii. She stepped away from basketball in 2019 to focus on family and social justice, successfully advocating for the release of Jonathan Irons from wrongful imprisonment.
iv. Moore shares a special connection with Caitlin Clark, a rising star in women’s basketball, highlighting Moore’s influence on the next generation of players.
v.The Lynx’s victory over the Indiana Fever secured their place in the playoffs, adding to the celebratory atmosphere of Moore’s jersey retirement night.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News