In a thrilling announcement that has the basketball world buzzing, three-time WNBA champion Alysha Clark has revealed she will be joining the ranks of Athletes Unlimited for their 2025 season in Nashville. The seasoned veteran, who has made a name for herself with her tenacious defense and clutch shooting, expressed her excitement about returning to the city where her love for the game first blossomed.
From Teenage Phenom to Basketball Royalty
Clark’s journey to basketball stardom began in her teenage years when her family relocated to the Nashville area. It was there, amidst the rich history and fervent support for women’s basketball in Tennessee, that she honed her skills and developed an unwavering passion for the sport.
I was fascinated by the history, by the support. The starting point of my basketball journey was there.
– Alysha Clark on her early years in Nashville
Her talent and dedication soon caught the attention of college scouts, and Clark went on to lead the nation in scoring during her time at Middle Tennessee State University. This early success set the stage for a remarkable professional career that has included three WNBA championships and the 2023 Sixth Woman of the Year award.
A Star-Studded Roster
Clark won’t be the only big name taking the court in Nashville next year. Athletes Unlimited has assembled an impressive roster featuring both rising stars and established veterans. Among the players announced are:
- Jordan Horston (Seattle Storm) and Isabelle Harrison (Chicago Sky), both former Tennessee Lady Vols
- Kia Nurse (Los Angeles Sparks) and Bria Hartley, UConn alumnae
- Maddy Siegrist (Dallas Wings), the No. 3 pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft
- Alissa Pili (Minnesota Lynx), the No. 8 pick in the 2024 Draft
This talented mix of players promises to deliver a competitive and entertaining season as they showcase their skills in the unique Athletes Unlimited format. The league awards points for both team wins and individual performances, with the player accumulating the most points being crowned champion at the end of the season.
A New Chapter in Women’s Basketball
Clark’s decision to join Athletes Unlimited for the 2025 season is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the growth and evolution of women’s basketball. For years, WNBA players have had to spend their offseasons playing overseas to supplement their income and stay sharp. However, the emergence of AU and other domestic leagues is providing new opportunities for these athletes to compete at a high level without leaving the country.
It’s really cool to still be playing long enough where this is an option. For the majority of my career, I didn’t have that option. It speaks to the growth of the game.
– Clark on the significance of domestic offseason leagues
As the sport continues to gain popularity and support, initiatives like Athletes Unlimited are playing a crucial role in creating a sustainable future for women’s basketball. By providing a platform for top talent to showcase their abilities and connect with fans, these leagues are helping to elevate the game to new heights.
A Homecoming to Remember
For Alysha Clark, the 2025 AU season represents a special homecoming – a chance to come full circle and compete in front of the community that nurtured her love for basketball. With her wealth of experience, leadership abilities, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Clark is poised to make a significant impact both on and off the court.
As the basketball world eagerly awaits the start of the 2025 Athletes Unlimited season, all eyes will be on Nashville, where a new chapter in women’s basketball history is set to unfold. With Alysha Clark leading the charge and a roster full of talented players, fans can expect nothing short of a thrilling and unforgettable showcase of the very best the sport has to offer.
