Tina Charles, the WNBA's all-time leader in rebounds and field goals made, officially announced her retirement from professional basketball on Tuesday.
At 37, Charles leaves behind a legacy that spans 14 WNBA seasons. She was drafted first overall by the Connecticut Sun in 2010 and went on to play for the New York Liberty, Atlanta Dream, Washington Mystics, Seattle Storm, and Phoenix Mercury. Most recently, she competed for the Eclipse in the Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball league.
"It was all a dream — that's the thought that keeps finding me," Charles wrote on Instagram and X. "That, and deep gratitude. God has covered my life in ways I can't fully put into words, and by his grace and mercy, I've been able to live out something bigger than I ever imagined. Today, I officially announce my retirement from basketball."
Charles's impact on the court was undeniable. She was the 2010 Rookie of the Year, the 2012 league MVP, a nine-time All-WNBA selection, and an eight-time All-Star. She also claimed four rebounding titles and two scoring titles, while earning four All-Defensive Team nods. Off the court, she was recognized three times with the Community Assist Award and twice with the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award.
Her dominance extended beyond the WNBA. Charles won three Olympic gold medals with Team USA and helped lead the University of Connecticut to back-to-back undefeated national championships in 2009 and 2010.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised Charles's career, calling it "one of the most remarkable in WNBA history." She added, "From earning unanimous Rookie of the Year honors to being named league MVP, to becoming the WNBA's all-time leading rebounder and second all-time leading scorer, Tina's impact on the game will be felt for generations to come."
In her retirement announcement, Charles thanked her family, friends, coaches, teammates, and fans for their support throughout her 15-year professional journey.
