LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Sparks guard Layshia Clarendon has announced their retirement from the WNBA following the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Over their 12-year career, Clarendon played 284 games across six teams and earned a spot as a 2017 WNBA All-Star. Their career statistics, averaging 7.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists, reflect their significant contributions on the court. Off the court, Clarendon’s advocacy and leadership have made a lasting impact.
Reflecting on their retirement, Clarendon expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play in their home state of California with the Sparks, which held deep personal significance. After joining the Sparks in 2023, they consistently delivered, including setting a career-high 30 points in September 2023 and becoming the second-oldest WNBA player to record a triple-double at the start of the 2024 season. Clarendon’s leadership and activism, as well as Clarendon’s work for marginalized communities, were as significant as their on-court performance.
“It’s bittersweet to reach this time in my life and career. Coming home to LA and spending my final seasons with the Sparks was deeply meaningful,” said Clarendon. “I wasn’t sure if I would ever make it back to California to play. And I did, which meant the world to me and my family. I want to thank everyone within the organization, my teammates and coaches for all they’ve supported me through. Both big and small. The WNBA is in such a great place, and I’ll be forever honored to be one of 144.”
Sparks head coach Curt Miller and General Manager Raegan Pebley praised Clarendon for their professionalism, competitive spirit, and authenticity. Clarendon leaves behind a legacy as a basketball player and a trailblazer who fought for inclusion and equality.
“Layshia has made a huge impact on and off the court throughout their outstanding basketball career. I had the pleasure of coaching Lay in Connecticut and Los Angeles and watched how their grit, IQ, toughness and most importantly their leadership impact our teams,” said Miller. “Lay was a true professional, showing up each day with a desire to help our teams compete and improve. Simply stated, Lay is a winner. Off the court, Lay is a trailblazer and impacted so many with their bravery to be authentic and unapologetic while consistently fighting for the marginalized.”
Clarendon was drafted ninth overall by the Indiana Fever in 2013 after leading the University of California to its first-ever Final Four appearance. Their impact on the WNBA and beyond has been profound, marking them as one of the league’s influential figures.
“Layshia Clarendon has made us, our game and our world better. They model the courage it takes in choosing to do the simple and the hard with mindfulness and selflessness every single day,” said Pebley. “Their on court toughness, competitive fire and willingness to do whatever the team needs is only matched by how they have shown up off the court as well. We wish Layshia and their family the absolute best as they enter this new chapter.”
Clarendon had not been with the team for several games due to a mental health break.
