Discover the inspiring journey of Skylar Diggins , a WNBA star whose talent and leadership have made a significant impact on women’s basketball.

Skylar Diggins, born on August 2, 1990, in South Bend, Indiana, has emerged as one of the most influential figures in women’s basketball. From her early days on the court to her current role with the Seattle Storm, Diggins’ journey is a testament to talent, perseverance, and dedication.

Early Life and High School Stardom

Growing up in South Bend, Diggins attended Washington High School, where she became a basketball prodigy. She led her team to a state championship in 2007 and finished her high school career with 2,790 points, ranking her third in Indiana girls’ basketball history. Her accolades include being named the 2009 Gatorade National Player of the Year and Miss Indiana Basketball.

College Career at Notre Dame

Diggins continued to shine at the University of Notre Dame, where she played for the Fighting Irish from 2009 to 2013. Under her leadership, Notre Dame reached three consecutive Final Fours and made two NCAA championship appearances. She finished her college career as the school’s all-time leader in points and steals and second in assists. Her exceptional play earned her the 2013 Dawn Staley Award and two Nancy Lieberman Awards, recognizing her as the nation’s top point guard.

WNBA Journey

In 2013, Diggins was selected third overall in the WNBA Draft by the Tulsa Shock, which later became the Dallas Wings. Over her career, she has been a six-time WNBA All-Star and has earned All-WNBA honors multiple times. Known for her scoring ability, playmaking, and leadership, Diggins has been a cornerstone for every team she’s been a part of.

In 2024, she joined the Seattle Storm, where she made an immediate impact by becoming the franchise’s single-season assist leader with 227 assists, surpassing Sue Bird’s record of 221. Her performance helped the Storm improve significantly, finishing the season with a 25-15 record .

Unrivaled: A New Chapter

Beyond the WNBA, Diggins has embraced new challenges. In 2025, she participated in the inaugural season of Unrivaled, a professional 3-on-3 offseason women’s basketball league. Playing for the Lunar Owls Club, she led her team to an 11-1 record, averaging 18.5 points per game and earning second-team All-Unrivaled honors .

Off the Court: Advocacy and Influence

Off the court, Diggins is a passionate advocate for various causes. She has been vocal about childhood obesity and has worked with organizations to promote healthy lifestyles. Additionally, she has expanded her influence through media appearances and endorsements. She signed with Roc Nation Sports in 2013, becoming the first female athlete to do so, and has had partnerships with brands like Nike and Bodyarmor.

Diggins also founded “Shoot 4 The Sky,” a basketball camp tour aimed at helping young athletes improve their skills. Her commitment to community service and youth development underscores her dedication to making a positive impact beyond basketball .

Personal Life

In her personal life, Diggins married Daniel Smith, a former Notre Dame football player, in 2017. The couple has two children together. Recently, Diggins has opted to use her maiden name professionally, signaling a new chapter in her personal and professional life .

Legacy and Future Outlook

Skylar Diggins’ legacy is defined not only by her on-court achievements but also by her contributions to the growth and visibility of women’s sports. As she continues to excel in the WNBA and beyond, her influence serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes worldwide.

Looking ahead, Diggins remains a pivotal figure in the evolution of women’s basketball, balancing her athletic career with her roles as a mother, advocate, and mentor. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on and off the court.