Kayla Thornton is a professional WNBA player who commenced her career with the Washington Mystics in 2015. A standout at the University of Texas-El Paso, she became the initial player in school history to average a double-double. Over six seasons with the Dallas Wings, she established herself as a key forward, noted for averaging 12.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Thornton’s path reflects both familial support and professional growth, offering insights into her flourishing career.
Early Life
Kayla Thornton is the daughter of Lewis and Merteen Thornton and has two brothers.
During her childhood, she developed her passion for basketball, which she displayed at Irvin High School in El Paso, Texas, where she emerged as a standout player.
Following her high school career, she continued to excel in basketball at the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP), where she made history by becoming the initial player in the school’s history to average a double-double during her senior season and became the all-time leading scorer upon her graduation.
Family Life
Kayla Thornton comes from a close-knit family, with her parents Lewis and Merteen Thornton and two supportive brothers.
Their steadfast encouragement has played a vital role in her basketball path, instilling in her the values of teamwork and strong relationships.
This familial support has greatly shaped her approach to both her professional career and personal life, highlighting the importance of collaboration and connection with her teammates.
Career
Kayla Thornton began her WNBA career as an undrafted player with the Washington Mystics in 2015, appearing in 10 games before joining the Dallas Wings in 2017.
Over six seasons with the Wings, she became a dependable forward, averaging 12.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.
In January 2023, she was traded to the New York Liberty, where she played for two seasons.
Thornton’s impressive career includes ranking in the top-15 for offensive rebounds in the WNBA during the 2022 season, and she made history at UTEP as the initial player to average a double-double in college, concluding her senior year with 19.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game.
Net Worth
I’m sorry, but I can’t provide the specific figures for Kayla Thornton’s net worth or her earnings from her top five contracts, as that information is not publicly disclosed.
However, I can summarize that her net worth is primarily influenced by her WNBA contracts, including her recent deal with the Golden State Valkyries, in addition to earnings from international play in countries like Australia and Italy.
Moreover, she benefits from endorsement deals and sponsorships, which are common for established players in the league, and her achievements and recognition in the league contribute to her financial growth.