Olivia Nelson-Ododa is a promising center in the WNBA, recognized for her skilled performance and impressive collegiate background. She was selected 19th in total in the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks and later traded to the Connecticut Sun. During her career, she has averaged 10.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game and earned a gold medal representing the USA. With a growing presence in the league, her future looks bright and full of potential.
Early Life
Olivia Nelson-Ododa highlighted her basketball talent from an early age, developing her skills throughout childhood. As a standout player in high school, she became a highly ranked recruit, recognized as the No. 5 recruit in the Class of 2018 by ESPN.
During her time at Winder Barrow High School, she led her team to the state championship game and earned three all-state selections, emphasizing her exceptional abilities on the court.
In addition to her high school achievements, Olivia represented the USA Basketball team, where she won a gold medal at the 2019 FIBA AmeriCup and competed in the 2019 Pan Am Games, solidifying her status as a remarkable athlete.
Her early basketball career was further highlighted by her membership on the 2018 U18 USA Basketball National Team, setting the stage for her future success in the sport.
Family Life
Olivia Nelson-Ododa’s family has played an essential role in her basketball path, providing steadfast support throughout her life.
Her parents, who have always encouraged her passion for the sport, instilled in her the values of education and sportsmanship, which have greatly influenced her commitment to excellence on and off the court.
Olivia maintains a close-knit relationship with her family, often sharing her experiences and accomplishments with them.
Their support has been a constant source of motivation as she navigates her collegiate and professional career in basketball.
Career
Olivia Nelson-Ododa was selected as the 19th overall choice in the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks and was traded to the Connecticut Sun in January 2023.
Throughout her career, she has established herself as an impressive center, averaging 10.2 points and 6.7 rebounds per game.
In her sophomore season in 2023, Olivia reached a career milestone by scoring 20 points in a single game against Chicago and recorded her initial double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds against Indiana.
She also demonstrated her defensive skill by leading the Sun in blocks during 13 games that season.
Net Worth
Olivia Nelson-Ododa’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, largely influenced by her WNBA salary, which is approximately $70,000 to $80,000 per season.
In her career, she has played notable roles in multiple teams and leagues, with specific earnings from prominent contracts. For instance, her top earnings in her career include a $75,000 salary during her rookie season, $85,000 following her trade to the Connecticut Sun, and extra sums earned while playing overseas in leagues like China and Australia, where she reportedly earned $40,000 and $60,000 respectively in separate seasons.
As a professional athlete, endorsements and sponsorships could further improve her net worth, although exact figures for these deals have not been publicly disclosed.
With her advancing performance on the court, her financial success is likely to grow in the coming years.