The Legacy Play: WNBA star Nneka Ogwumike on sports, being a sister and shaping the future of women’s basketball – Essence

When you think that of someone who modified the game in the WNBA, one name stands out: Mrs. Ogwumike.

As I logged into our Zoom call, I could not help but feel a growing sense of excitement. Are you talking to someone who not only dominated a game I’ve admired for years, but in addition shattered glass ceilings on the pitch? Let’s just say it was price the long day for the meetings I had already had.

From the moment she appeared on screen, exuding confidence and warmth, it was clear why she had develop into a mainstay in the league. Ogwumike who signed with the Seattle Storm through the 2024 season earlier this 12 monthshas develop into a cornerstone of the league since being chosen No. 1 in the 2012 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. Her move to Seattle marks a recent chapter in her illustrious profession, but her impact goes far beyond any single team – she is a leader, advocate and voice for change in skilled sports.

From her first season, Ogwumike established herself as greater than just an athlete – she was a leader in every sense of the word. Her achievements are impressive: seven All-Star appearances, a WNBA championship in 2016 with the Sparks and league MVP that very same 12 months.

But as much success as she achieved on the court, it was what she achieved off it that really set her apart.

Reflecting on her role as WNBPA president, Ogwumike shared her approach to making sure that players’ voices are heard: “I feel the best way that I do know of to be certain that players’ voices are heard is to simply be certain that those players space to talk up. I do not think it’s too complicated.

This philosophy guided her leadership style, which focused on empowering other players to advocate for themselves and understand their value in the league. Ogwumike played a key role in leading the union through vital negotiations, including pay equity and improved working conditions for players.

Discussing the future of the WNBA, Ogwumike stated, “I’d say my vision is that in the next five to 10 years, players will sign a $1 million contract or not less than a seven-figure contract. I would like to see that I will certainly live due to this. So I’d wish to see what it looks like and if it shows the growth of the WNBA. And of course expansion.”

As a Black woman leading the way in a largely male-dominated sports industry, Ogwumike understands the importance of representation and what it means to the young girls who look as much as her. She emphasized the importance of women in sports as leaders: “I think if you look at women who are in leadership positions or who are in leadership positions in the world, in society, in culture and in business, many of them have played sports at some point.”

Ogwumike believes in the importance of diversity and representation in all elements of sports, from players to management. She advocates for greater visibility and investment in women’s sport, recognizing the impact it may well have on future generations.

The WNBA has made significant progress on diversity in leadership positions. From 2023 The WNBA has the highest percentage of women in vice chairman positions or above of any skilled sports league at 58%.. Additionally, 38% of these positions are held by women of color. These statistics underscore the league’s commitment to diversity and representation, which aligns with Ogwumike’s vision for the sport.

When asked about the unique challenges she faced as a Black woman in a skilled sports leadership position, Ogwumike provided a thoughtful answer: “I feel those challenges take on different shapes as you grow old. Perhaps they’re a bit more refined because as you grow old and reach a certain level, it’s hard to query talent. But growing up as a black child and a black girl, you are not necessarily the first selection in terms of what’s representative of anything. You are likely to occupy spaces that weren’t built for you.

She also addressed recent issues of racism and bigotry in the league, stating: “We don’t deserve it, but that doesn’t suggest we’ve not experienced it and players are fed up, Black women are fed up, Black players are fed up. I feel we have gotten to the point where people just think, “Hey, this is the WNBA.” It’s exciting. It’s a sport that folks love to look at. People like to rejoice and give great people their greatness.

While Ogwumike’s impact on the court has been significant, her aspirations go far beyond the game. She is currently working with Adidas on initiatives to support young women in sports, using her influence to supply opportunities for the next generation of athletes.

Speaking about her collaboration with Adidas, Ogwumike said: “When I decided to work at Adidas, I was drawn to them by the aspect of being a creator. These weren’t platitudes at all. This is very true. They want their athlete partners to be creative partners in business and how women are represented in sports, especially in my case, basketball. And I really love it.”

As she continues to blaze trails and set recent standards, Ogwumike stays focused on creating a future where female athletes are valued and respected. Her work with the WNBPA and her advocacy for equality in sports reveal her commitment to driving lasting change in the industry. Her recent move to the Seattle Storm demonstrates not only her continued value as a player, but in addition her adaptability and willingness to take on recent challenges.

When asked what advice she would give to her younger self, Ogwumike replied with a smile, “Don’t take everything so seriously. Have fun. I was too serious. I was the parent of a child.” This insight into her personal development journey adds depth to her public persona, reminding us that even sports icons have their moments of reflection and self-improvement.

With leaders like Ogwumike at the helm, there isn’t any doubt that the future of women’s sports and women’s leadership is in good hands. Her commitment to improving the game, the league and opportunities for ladies in sports continues to encourage and pave the way for future generations of athletes and leaders.

As our Zoom call got here to an end, I could not help but be inspired by Ogwumike’s passion and vision. Her impact extends far beyond the basketball court, shaping the future of women’s sports and leadership.

It’s clear that for Nneka Ogwumike, playing is about greater than just winning – it’s about creating a legacy that may profit future generations, irrespective of which team he plays for.