Natasha Howard Bio
Natasha Howard (born September 2, 1991) is an American professional basketball player for the Indiana Fever of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Howard was the 2019 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year. She was drafted in 2014 by the Fever. Born in Toledo, Ohio, she played college basketball for Florida State University, where she finished sixth in the NCAA for field goal percentage.
Early Life and Background
Natasha Howard was born in Toledo, Ohio, where she attended Waite High School. During her high school career, she showcased her talent on the basketball court, which laid the foundation for her future in the sport. After graduating, she continued her education and basketball career at Florida State University, where she played from 2010 to 2014. At Florida State, Howard made a significant impact, finishing sixth in the NCAA for field goal percentage, which highlighted her scoring ability and efficiency.
Path to Basketball
Howard’s journey to professional basketball began in high school, where she excelled as a player and earned recognition for her skills. After a successful college career at Florida State, she entered the 2014 WNBA Draft, where she was selected fifth overall by the Indiana Fever. This marked the beginning of her professional career, and she quickly made a name for herself in the league.
Natasha Howard Career
Early Career (2014–2016)
Natasha Howard began her WNBA career with the Indiana Fever in 2014. In her rookie season, she averaged 7.0 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, showcasing her potential as a valuable player. Despite a challenging second season, where her statistics dipped, Howard’s performance in the WNBA Finals was remarkable, as she did not miss a single shot throughout the series. In 2016, she was traded to the Minnesota Lynx, where she became a key contributor off the bench and helped the team reach the Finals again.
Breakthrough (2018–2020)
Howard’s career took a significant turn when she was traded to the Seattle Storm in 2018. In her first season with the Storm, she had a breakout year, averaging career highs in several statistical categories and earning a spot on the WNBA All-Defensive First Team. The Storm finished the season with a league-best record and won the championship, marking Howard’s first title. In 2019, she was named an All-Star and won the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year Award, further solidifying her status as one of the league’s top players. Howard continued her success in 2020, helping the Storm win their second championship in three years.
Notable Works and Milestones
Natasha Howard is a three-time WNBA champion, having won titles in 2017, 2018, and 2020. She has also been recognized as a WNBA All-Star and earned multiple accolades, including the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.
Natasha Howard Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Natasha Howard has received numerous nominations for her outstanding performances in the WNBA, including All-Star selections and defensive accolades.
Natasha Howard Awards Won
Natasha Howard has achieved significant recognition in her career, including three WNBA championships and multiple All-Star selections.
Natasha Howard Family
Natasha Howard is married to Jac’Eil Duckworth Howard. Their wedding was featured in the 11th season of Basketball Wives, showcasing their relationship publicly.
Personal Life
Natasha Howard’s personal life is intertwined with her professional career. She is known for her dedication to basketball and her family. Howard’s marriage to Jac’Eil Duckworth Howard has been a significant part of her life, and they have shared moments from their life together on television.
