Kiah Stokes

Kiah Stokes Bio

Kiah Irene Stokes is an American professional basketball player for the Las Vegas Aces of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She was selected by the New York Liberty with the No. 11 pick in the first round of the 2015 WNBA draft. Stokes is a two-time WNBA champion, winning with the Aces in 2022 and 2023. In 2023, she also won a Euroleague championship with Fenerbahçe. Stokes played four years at the University of Connecticut, where she was part of four consecutive Final Four teams and won three straight national championships, from 2013 to 2015.

Early Life and Background

Kiah Stokes was born on March 30, 1993, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to parents Greg Stokes and Julie Saddler. She has one brother, Darius. Her father was an all-American basketball player at the University of Iowa, played for the Philadelphia 76ers, and won gold with the 1983 USA Pan American Games Team. From a young age, Stokes displayed exceptional athletic talent. Her father recalls signing her up for a YMCA track team when she was just four years old, where she competed against older children and won by a significant margin. This early experience hinted at her future success in sports. Stokes attended Linn-Mar High School in Marion, Iowa, where she began to make a name for herself in basketball.

Path to Basketball

Kiah Stokes began her basketball journey at Linn-Mar High School, where she developed her skills and gained recognition. Her performance on the court earned her a spot on the USA Basketball U16 National Team, where she helped secure a gold medal at the FIBA Americas U16 Championship in 2009. After high school, Stokes continued her education and basketball career at the University of Connecticut from 2011 to 2015. During her college years, she was part of a dominant team that reached the Final Four every year and won three consecutive NCAA championships from 2013 to 2015. Her college career laid the foundation for her professional journey in the WNBA.

Kiah Stokes Career

Early Career (2015-2021)

Kiah Stokes was drafted by the New York Liberty in 2015 as the 11th overall pick. In her rookie season, she made a significant impact, earning a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team and the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team. Stokes quickly established herself as a formidable presence on the court, known for her defensive skills and rebounding ability. Throughout her early career, she played for the New York Liberty and had stints with international teams, including Cheongju KB Stars, Beşiktaş, and Botaş.

Breakthrough (2022-Present)

Stokes’ career reached new heights when she joined the Las Vegas Aces. In 2022, she helped lead the team to a WNBA championship, followed by another title in 2023. Her contributions were crucial in both playoff runs, showcasing her skills as a center. In addition to her WNBA success, Stokes also excelled in international play, winning a Euroleague championship with Fenerbahçe in 2023.

Notable Works and Milestones

Kiah Stokes is recognized for her significant achievements, including being a three-time WNBA champion and a Euroleague champion. Her accolades also include being named to the WNBA All-Rookie Team and the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team in her debut season.

Kiah Stokes Award Nominations

Throughout her career, Kiah Stokes has received numerous nominations and accolades, reflecting her impact on the court and her contributions to her teams.

Kiah Stokes Awards Won

Kiah Stokes has won several prestigious awards, including multiple WNBA championships and international titles. Her accomplishments highlight her talent and dedication to the sport.