At 36 years old, Tina Charles continues to compete for the Connecticut Sun in her 15th season in the WNBA, demonstrating the durability and skill that have marked her career. Although Charles struggled in Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Dream, shooting just 5-of-20 from the field during the Sun’s 79-55 loss, her performance in the early season remained solid, averaging 15.7 points and 6.7 assists per game while shooting 47.2 percent in the three games prior.
Recognition Begins for a Hall of Fame-Caliber Career
Charles is widely expected to earn induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame once she retires, highlighting her impact on women’s basketball. The Atlanta Dream, a team she briefly joined in 2024 before returning to Connecticut in 2025, honored her with a tribute video shared on social media, reflecting her influence and respect across the league.
Early Success and Collegiate Achievements Shape Her Path
Selected first overall in the 2010 WNBA draft by the Connecticut Sun, the 6-foot-4 center started her professional journey with exceptional promise. Her collegiate career at UConn included leading the Huskies to consecutive NCAA women’s championships in 2009 and 2010, earning Most Outstanding Player honors in the 2009 tournament. In her rookie WNBA season, Charles posted averages of 15.5 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game, securing the Rookie of the Year award.
Career Highlights Include MVP Awards, All-Star Appearances, and Olympic Gold
Throughout her career, Charles has been named an All-Star eight times and claimed the league MVP award in 2012. She dominated in rebounds, leading the league in that category four different seasons. On the international stage, Charles contributed to Team USA’s Olympic gold medal victories in both 2012 and 2016, underlining her status as one of the top players in women’s basketball history.
Connecticut Sun Struggles Early in Current Season
The Sun entered the season with strong ambitions but started 0-4 after the loss to the Dream, struggling with a 31.3 percent shooting rate and being outrebounded 52-34. The team came close to the WNBA semifinals last year but fell in a five-game series against the Minnesota Lynx.
Reflections on Tina Charles’ Role as the Season Progresses
Despite the challenging start, Tina Charles’ longtime presence and numerous accolades highlight her vital role on the Connecticut Sun and in the WNBA. Her resilience and leadership remain crucial for the team’s prospects, while the ongoing season offers further opportunity to build on her legacy of exceptional achievement in women’s professional basketball.