As the warmth of spring envelops Kingston, Ontario, basketball fans are turning their attention to a local star making waves in the WNBA. Aaliyah Edwards, a native of Limestone City, is gearing up for her third season in professional basketball, now fully integrated with the Connecticut Sun. This marks her inaugural complete season with the franchise, following her trade from the Washington Mystics just before last year’s deadline.
A New Chapter in Connecticut
Edwards, who was selected sixth overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Mystics, faced challenges during her sophomore season. In an exclusive conversation from her hotel in Toronto, where she is preparing for a pre-season game against the Toronto Tempo, she reflected on her tumultuous journey. “It’s tough stuff that I had to go through that,” Edwards said. “But at the same time, I’m grateful that I went through it so early on in my career.”
Despite the setbacks, Edwards has maintained an optimistic outlook, crediting seasoned players for their support and encouragement. “Trades and team movement are far too common in professional sports,” she acknowledged, and she is determined to use the experience as fuel for her growth as an athlete.
Looking Ahead: Goals for the Upcoming Season
With a clear focus on her future, Edwards has set ambitious goals for herself as she embarks on this new chapter. “I want my name to be thrown around the league, and I want to prove people wrong,” she declared. “Going into my third year, I’m going to be team first. But individually, I’ve been working really hard to kind of get back to what I do best, which is just to dominate.”
In her rookie year, Edwards averaged 7.6 points and 5.6 rebounds across 21.8 minutes per game. However, her performance dipped during her second season, posting just 5.4 points and 3.7 rebounds in significantly fewer minutes. Encouragingly, Connecticut’s management has assured her of a pivotal role this season. “I’m really excited and embracing that responsibility,” she said, demonstrating her readiness to rise to the occasion.
A Mentor on the Horizon
One of the reasons Edwards has captured the attention of the Sun’s coaching staff is her impressive performance in the Unrivalled 3-on-3 league, where she managed to average a double-double. This off-season opportunity reignited her passion for the game after a challenging year. “I was able to really show that and just perform, and it really just gave me that joy of the sport again,” she shared.
Moreover, Edwards is eager to learn from the newly signed league veteran, Brittney Griner. A three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and former NCAA and WNBA champion, Griner’s presence on the team is a significant opportunity for Edwards. “To kind of pick her brain and to utilise her to help me be a better player is going to be great for me this summer,” Edwards remarked, with a touch of humour about no longer having to defend against Griner’s imposing presence.
The Future of the Connecticut Sun
In a significant development, the WNBA has announced the relocation of the Sun, previously based in Connecticut, to Houston. This bittersweet transition impacts Edwards deeply, as last season’s trade represented a homecoming after her collegiate career with the University of Connecticut Huskies. “It’s going to be great for us to relocate there,” she noted. “A lot of old fans are going to come out and support us, but we’re also going to get a lot of new fans.”
Before the relocation takes place, Edwards is keen to focus on the current season and the Sun’s upcoming exhibition game in Toronto—an event that holds special significance as it will be her first professional match on home soil. “Isn’t that crazy?” she exclaimed, revealing that her phone has been inundated with requests for tickets from family and friends. With many loved ones expected to attend, Edwards sees this moment as a testament to the league’s growth.
“It’s even more of a motivator for them to continue to do that and play the sport that they love,” she added, highlighting the influence of professional basketball on young athletes.
Why it Matters
Aaliyah Edwards’ journey from Kingston to the WNBA encapsulates not only her personal growth but also the evolving landscape of women’s basketball in Canada. As the league continues to expand its reach, the presence of players like Edwards serves as an inspiration for young athletes across the country. With each game played, they pave the way for future generations, affirming that dreams of professional sports are not just attainable; they are within reach.
