One would say being a mom is already a full-time job in itself. But when you add professional athlete to the title, it brings a whole new meaning to the word “mom”. For multiple WNBA players, this is the reality they face every day.
While the pandemic in America seems to not be leaving anytime soon, professional sports have been able to find ways to start or continue their seasons. Some leagues created bubbles for all teams while others picked hub cities for different divisions. While we all welcome the return of sports, it comes with a price for many athletes and their families.
The NBA chose Disney World in Florida as its bubble home for the rest of the season. The WNBA also made Florida their home, but two hours away in Bradenton at the IMG Academy. Strict rules have been put in place on who’s allowed in and out of the bubble premise.
Many WNBA players have found themselves not only having to focus on their game but also being a full-time mom. The league is providing hired caretakers for assistance. Players instead have relied on their organization and teammates to help with the care of their little ones. Since many are used to traveling with their young ones it may not be so new. However, this season comes with new challenges, including health risks, no family visits, or even a break as mother/athlete between travels.
To name a few of these rock star mothers,
Candace Parker
Playing for the LA Sparks, Candace Parker has been traveling with her daughter Lailaa, 11 years old, for many years. However, in the mix of living in the bubble, being a top athlete and mom, Candace has also been juggling working as an analyst for NBA on TNT. Joining the show via video chat, Candace has more on her plate than most. But with all that, Candace has still been producing great numbers so far this season averaging 14.4 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 3.8 APG.
Bria Holmes
Bria Holmes plays for the Connecticut Sun. She is joined by her daughter Diona who is just two years old. Affectionately referred to as “Baby D”, she has been quite the popular choice of content for the team’s social media. You can find Diona hanging out at team practices, and enjoying the pool during recovery time with her mom.
Bria Hartley
Playing for the Phoenix Mercury, Bria Hartley is joined by her three-year-old son Bryson. Enjoying his time in the bubble, Bryson has also made a couple of special appearances on the team’s social media channels. He has a job in wubble and it’s not all fun. Calling him the new photographer intern at practice, Bryson is learning the ropes of the behind the scenes action, taking photos and having fun with the Mercury players.
At the end of the day when that last whistle blows at practice or the final game buzzer goes off, these women still have a job todo. Being a mom is 24 hours and doesn’t end when someone says it does.
For all the mothers that are putting in the work both on and off the court, you have definitely earned a spot in an elite category of your own.
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