Alyssa Thomas Bio
Alyssa Thomas (born April 12, 1992) is an American professional basketball forward for the Phoenix Mercury of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and for the Laces of Unrivaled. She played college basketball for the Maryland Terrapins. The New York Liberty drafted Thomas 4th overall in the 2014 WNBA draft, and immediately traded her to the Connecticut Sun along with Kelsey Bone and a 2015 first-round draft pick in exchange for Tina Charles. Thomas is the University of Maryland’s all-time leader in scoring, rebounding, and double-doubles for the women’s program, and one of nine athletes in NCAA Women’s Basketball history with six career triple-doubles. Thomas is the WNBA’s career leader in triple-doubles and is known for her unique shooting style and versatility on the court.
Early Life and Background
Alyssa Thomas was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She attended Central Dauphin High School, where she became the school’s all-time leading scorer. During her high school career, she was recognized as a Parade All-American and was named the Pennsylvania AAAA State Player of the Year in 2010. Thomas’s early exposure to basketball laid the foundation for her future success in the sport. After high school, she continued her education and athletic career at the University of Maryland, where she played for the Maryland Terrapins from 2010 to 2014.
Path to Basketball
At the University of Maryland, Alyssa Thomas quickly made a name for herself. In her freshman season, she was named the ACC Rookie of the Year and led her team in scoring, averaging 14.5 points per game. Her sophomore year saw her become the ACC Player of the Year, and she led the Terrapins to an ACC Championship. Over her collegiate career, Thomas consistently excelled, culminating in her being named the ACC Female Athlete of the Year in 2014. Her impressive college performance paved the way for her entry into the professional basketball arena.
Alyssa Thomas Career
Early Career (2014-2017)
Alyssa Thomas began her professional career when she was drafted 4th overall by the New York Liberty in the 2014 WNBA draft. However, she was traded to the Connecticut Sun on draft day. In her rookie season, she averaged 10.0 points and 5.1 rebounds, earning a spot on the 2014 WNBA All-Rookie Team. Her performance established her as a key player for the Sun, and she continued to develop her skills and contribute significantly to the team’s success.
Breakthrough (2017-2023)
Thomas’s breakthrough came in 2017 when she was selected for her first WNBA All-Star Game. She scored a career-high 26 points in a game against the Washington Mystics, showcasing her scoring ability. Over the years, she became known for her all-around game, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the league in various statistical categories. In 2023, she was named the WNBA rebounding champion and continued to solidify her legacy as one of the league’s premier players.
Notable Works and Milestones
Alyssa Thomas is a six-time WNBA All-Star and has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being the WNBA’s career leader in triple-doubles. She has also earned recognition for her defensive prowess, being named to the All-WNBA First Team multiple times. Her contributions to the game have made her a standout player in women’s basketball.
Alyssa Thomas Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Alyssa Thomas has received multiple nominations for prestigious awards, reflecting her impact on the court and her contributions to her teams.
Alyssa Thomas Awards Won
Alyssa Thomas has won several awards during her basketball career, including the ACC Female Athlete of the Year in 2014 and multiple All-Star selections in the WNBA. Her accolades highlight her talent and dedication to the sport.
Alyssa Thomas Family
Alyssa Thomas is engaged to fellow professional basketball player DeWanna Bonner. The couple has been open about their relationship, sharing their journey together both on and off the court.
Personal Life
Alyssa Thomas has a close relationship with her family, including her younger brother, Devin Thomas, who also played basketball at Wake Forest. She and DeWanna Bonner became engaged in July 2023, and they are both currently teammates on the Phoenix Mercury, further strengthening their bond as both partners and athletes.
