Aari McDonald is a distinguished WNBA player celebrated for her exceptional collegiate career at the University of Arizona, where she became a leading scorer. Drafted third in total by the Atlanta Dream in 2021, she quickly made her mark, earning a spot on the AP All-Rookie Team. Known for her scoring and playmaking abilities, she continues to enhance her performance with the Los Angeles Sparks. To uncover more about her path and achievements, further exploration is encouraged.
Early Life
Aari McDonald began her basketball path at a young age, demonstrating her skills at Brookside Christian School in Stockton, California. During her time there, she excelled in the sport, displaying a natural talent that would set the stage for her future in basketball.
After establishing herself as a standout player in high school, Aari transferred to Washington for her college career. However, it was at the University of Arizona where she truly made her mark, becoming a career leader in points per game and setting a single-game scoring record with 44 points against Texas in the 2019-20 season.
Her remarkable achievements include being named the Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2021 and receiving the Ann Meyers Drysdale Award in 2020 for the best shooting guard in Division I.
Family Life
Aari McDonald attributes much of her success in basketball to the steadfast support of her family.
Her parents have been a notable source of inspiration, instilling in her the values of education and sports from a young age.
Aari shares a close bond with her family, often exhibiting moments with them on social media, highlighting their importance in her life and career.
She expresses gratitude for their encouragement, which has played an essential role throughout her collegiate and professional path.
Career
Aari McDonald made a remarkable impact in the WNBA after being drafted third in total by the Atlanta Dream in 2021, earning a place on the AP All-Rookie Team.
Throughout her career, she has averaged 8.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 116 games.
In the 2024 season, McDonald re-signed with the Los Angeles Sparks following a trade from Atlanta, where she notably increased her performance to average 11.6 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
She has reached impressive career-highs of 23 points and 10 assists in individual games, demonstrating her talent in both scoring and playmaking.
Prior to her WNBA career, McDonald was a standout player at Arizona, leading the Pac-12 in scoring and earning accolades such as the Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2021.
Net Worth
Aari McDonald’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million.
As a professional WNBA player and the third overall pick in the 2021 draft, her annual salary is expected to be between $70,000 and $200,000.
Throughout her career, McDonald has earned notable salaries from her contracts, including $70,000 in her rookie season, $85,000 in her following season, and potentially higher amounts in subsequent years based on performance and contract negotiations.
Furthermore, income from endorsements and her participation in international leagues further contribute to her financial profile.