The WNBA welcomes back a seasoned veteran: Haley Peters, who is making her mark with the Connecticut Sun. Peters' journey is a testament to perseverance and the global reach of women's basketball.
Peters, a 33-year-old forward, has had a remarkable career that spans continents. After a stellar college career at Duke, she went undrafted in 2014, leading her to explore opportunities abroad. And what an adventure it's been!
But here's where her story takes an unexpected turn: Peters signed with the Connecticut Sun in February 2025, marking her return to the WNBA after several years abroad. Her time away from the league was filled with diverse experiences, playing for various teams in Spain and France. In 2016, she landed her first WNBA gig with the San Antonio Silver Stars, but her playing time was limited.
And this is the part most people miss—the resilience she showed. After a brief stint with the Washington Mystics in 2017, Peters returned to Europe, honing her skills in the French league. She even played in the same league as Sun rookie Leila Lacan, showcasing the global talent pool the WNBA draws from.
Fast forward to 2025, and Peters is back in the WNBA, making her presence felt. She may not have eye-popping stats, but her value lies in her versatility and experience. She achieved a career milestone by starting her first WNBA game against her former team, the Mystics, and set a personal record for points against the Minnesota Lynx.
The Connecticut Sun recognized the value Peters brings to the team, especially after a season where they lacked her unique skill set. In return, they offered her the opportunity to play a full season, something she hadn't experienced since 2016.
Peters' story is a reminder that success can take many paths, and sometimes, the road less traveled can lead to incredible destinations. It's a narrative that sparks the question: How do we define success in professional sports? Is it solely based on stats and accolades, or does it encompass the journey and the impact one makes along the way?
What do you think? Is Peters' story an inspiration or a cautionary tale? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the diverse paths to success in the WNBA.
