Courtney Vandersloot Bio
Courtney Vandersloot (born February 8, 1989) is an American professional basketball player for the Chicago Sky of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Known for her remarkable skills as a point guard, Vandersloot has been recognized as one of the greatest in her position, securing multiple accolades including being a two-time WNBA champion and five-time All-Star. Her illustrious collegiate career at Gonzaga set numerous records, and she was the first player to have her jersey retired by the program. In addition to her success in the WNBA, she has played professionally in European leagues and has inspired many young athletes worldwide.
Early Life and Background
Courtney Vandersloot was born in Kent, Washington, a suburb of Seattle. She grew up in a neighborhood filled with children her age, which fostered her passion for sports from a young age. Her father built a sports court with a basketball hoop behind their house, but she preferred playing at a neighbor’s hoop where she could showcase her skills to others. Vandersloot was active in various sports during her childhood, including soccer, which was her favorite until basketball took precedence in high school. She wrote a school paper in third grade about her dream of playing in the WNBA, showcasing her early aspirations. Vandersloot attended Kentwood High School, where she became a basketball star. Her coach, Keith Hennig, pushed her to improve her game through rigorous one-on-one practices. A pivotal moment in her life occurred when she attended a Gonzaga University girls’ basketball camp, where she fell in love with the school and its basketball program.
Path to Basketball
Vandersloot’s high school career was marked by impressive performances, leading her team to its first state tournament appearance and earning accolades for her play. She averaged over 26 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds per game during her senior year, solidifying her status as a top prospect. Despite being undersized for a guard, she signed with Gonzaga University in November 2006, where she would go on to break numerous records. At Gonzaga, Vandersloot quickly established herself as a standout player, winning multiple West Coast Conference Player of the Year awards and leading her team to significant NCAA tournament victories. Her college career culminated in her becoming the first player in NCAA Division I history to record 2,000 points and 1,000 assists.
Courtney Vandersloot Career
Early Career (2011-2014)
Courtney Vandersloot was drafted third overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2011 WNBA Draft. In her rookie season, she made an immediate impact, starting 26 of the team’s 34 games and earning a spot on the All-Rookie Team. She averaged 3.7 assists per game, ranking among the top rookies in the league. Vandersloot continued to develop her skills, leading the league in assists per game in 2014 and helping the Sky reach the WNBA Finals that year.
Breakthrough (2015-2021)
Vandersloot’s breakthrough came in the 2017 season when she set a single-season record for assists per game at 8.1. She became the seventh player in league history to record a triple-double during a game in 2018. In 2021, Vandersloot led the Sky to their first WNBA championship, averaging 12.5 assists and 11.5 points per game in the Finals. Her performance in the playoffs solidified her reputation as one of the league’s elite point guards.
Notable Works and Milestones
Vandersloot’s signature work includes her contributions to the Chicago Sky’s championship run in 2021. She has received numerous awards, including being a five-time WNBA All-Star and a two-time WNBA champion. Her ability to lead the league in assists multiple times and her historic college achievements have made her a prominent figure in women’s basketball.
Courtney Vandersloot Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Courtney Vandersloot has received numerous nominations for her outstanding performances on the court. Her accolades include multiple selections to the WNBA All-Star Game and recognition for her contributions to her teams in both the WNBA and European leagues.
Courtney Vandersloot Awards Won
Courtney Vandersloot has won several prestigious awards, including the Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award and the Nancy Lieberman Award in 2011. She has also been recognized as a WNBA champion and has received multiple All-WNBA Team selections.
Courtney Vandersloot Family
Courtney Vandersloot is married to Allie Quigley, her teammate on the Chicago Sky. The couple announced the birth of their first child, a daughter, expected in 2025.
Personal Life
Vandersloot’s personal life is closely tied to her basketball career. She married Allie Quigley on December 27, 2018, in Seattle. The couple has shared their journey together both on and off the court, supporting each other in their professional endeavors. As they prepare for the arrival of their daughter in 2025, Vandersloot continues to inspire young athletes with her dedication to the sport and her commitment to family.
