Katie Lou Samuelson, the Seattle Storm forward and recognized WNBA star, celebrated her 28th birthday recently. On this occasion, her husband Devin Cannady shared a deeply emotional tribute on Instagram, highlighting her strength and role as a mother and partner.
Cannady expressed his admiration by posting,
“Happy birthday to the love of my life + best role model for our daughter,”
Cannady wrote on IG.
“28; patience, faith, growth. Romans 8:28”
Their journey together has included both challenges and joyful milestones.
A Journey Marked by Support and Shared Ambitions
Devin Cannady, a former Princeton Tiger turned professional basketball player with experience in the G League and Orlando Magic, has stood by Samuelson through significant moments. In 2021, he supported her during a tough setback when she was disqualified from the Tokyo Olympics roster due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The couple announced their engagement in February 2022 and married in April 2023. Later that year, Samuelson welcomed their daughter Aliya. Despite the demands of new parenthood, both pursued spots for Team USA’s 3×3 basketball roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics, though neither secured a place.
Balancing Motherhood, Career, and Athletic Ambitions
Amid raising a child and competing professionally, Samuelson took on a new role in 2023 as the director of player development for Vanderbilt’s women’s basketball program. Under her guidance, the Commodores reached the March Madness tournament two years in a row, demonstrating her impact beyond just playing.
Currently recovering from a torn ACL, Samuelson faces the challenge of rehabilitation but maintains a positive outlook.
Recovery and Resilience After ACL Surgery
Three days post-surgery on May 14 to repair her torn ACL, Samuelson updated her followers with a hopeful message. She wrote on Instagram,
“New knee, new me,” she wrote on IG.
“Successful Surgery. The real journey begins now.”
This statement reflects her determination to return stronger for the 2026 season.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Samuelson’s Basketball Career
Despite an injury that paused her playing career, Katie Lou Samuelson’s achievements as a player, mentor, and mother highlight her ongoing influence in basketball. Her resolve to recover and contribute both on and off the court suggests a promising continuation of her impact in women’s basketball. Devin Cannady’s tribute not only celebrates her birthday but also underlines the support system driving her forward.