Gabby Williams Announces WNBA Hiatus

WNBA Star to Focus on European Play in 2023

LAUREN JACKSON, BETH HARRIS, DANIELLE WARBY, NANCI DESTER, AND KARALYN GAITHER
AUG 29, 2023 | BY THE GAMES

WNBA star Gabby Williams has announced that she will likely sit out the 2023 season due to the league's prioritization rule. Williams, who was drafted fourth overall by the Chicago Sky in 2018, has been a key player for the team, averaging 10.5 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. However, the prioritization rule, which gives teams the option to hold onto their players' rights even when they are playing overseas, has made it difficult for Williams to balance her WNBA and European commitments. As a result, she has made the decision to focus on playing in France for the 2023 season, with plans to return to the WNBA in 2025.

Williams' decision is a blow to the WNBA, which has been struggling to retain its top players in recent years. However, it is also a reflection of the growing popularity of women's basketball in Europe, where several top players have opted to play in recent seasons. It remains to be seen whether Williams' decision will have a long-term impact on the WNBA, but it is certainly a sign of the times.

In the meantime, Williams will continue to play for ASVEL in France, where she is one of the team's most important players. She will also be hoping to help the French national team qualify for the 2024 Olympics.

Williams' decision is a reminder that the WNBA is not the only option for top women's basketball players. With the growing popularity of women's basketball in Europe, players now have more options than ever before. It will be interesting to see how the WNBA responds to this challenge in the coming years.