WNBA Veteran Tiffany Hayes Announces Retirement
Tiffany Hayes, an 11-year WNBA veteran and 2017 All-Star, has officially announced her retirement from the league. Hayes, 34, revealed the news on the “Counted Me Out” podcast, stating that her last season with the Connecticut Sun was her final one in the WNBA.
Hayes was drafted No. 14 overall in 2012 by the Atlanta Dream, where she played for 10 seasons before being traded to the Sun. Throughout her career, she averaged 13.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across 317 WNBA games and made six postseason appearances.
Known for her quick first step and elite playing style, Hayes was an all-WNBA first-team selection and an all-defensive second team pick in 2018. She also had an extensive overseas playing career, with stints in China, Turkey, and Spain. Hayes was a part of the UConn Huskies team that won back-to-back national championships in 2009 and 2010.
Following her retirement announcement, Sun coach Stephanie White and GM Darius Taylor issued statements congratulating Hayes on an outstanding career and thanking her for her contributions to the Connecticut Sun organization.
Hayes’ decision to retire was influenced by her desire to focus on other interests and to give her body a break after playing 11 consecutive seasons without rest. Despite leaving the WNBA, Hayes will continue to play overseas during the offseason.
Hayes’ retirement marks the end of an era for the WNBA, as she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and perseverance on and off the court. Her contributions to women’s basketball have left an indelible mark on the sport and will be remembered for years to come.
