Alaina Coates is a prominent American professional basketball player known for her impactful career in the WNBA and her significant contributions to women’s basketball. After an impressive college career at the University of South Carolina, where she was a four-time All-SEC player and a key member of the team that won the NCAA Championship in 2017, Coates was selected second overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky. This marked a historic moment as she became the highest draft pick in the program’s history.
Coates faced challenges early in her professional journey, including an ankle injury that sidelined her for the entire 2017 season. However, she made a strong comeback, debuting in 2018 and quickly establishing herself as a valuable player. During her time with the Sky, she showcased her skills, averaging 3.4 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in her first season. Her tenacity and defensive prowess earned her a reputation as a formidable center in the league.
Throughout her career, Coates has played for several WNBA teams, including the Minnesota Lynx, Atlanta Dream, Washington Mystics, Indiana Fever, Phoenix Mercury, and Las Vegas Aces. Notably, she contributed to the Aces’ success in the 2023 season, culminating in a WNBA Championship victory. Coates has also gained international experience, playing overseas in leagues in China and Turkey, further enhancing her skills and versatility on the court.
With a career marked by resilience and determination, Alaina Coates continues to be a prominent figure in women’s basketball, inspiring future generations of athletes. Her achievements reflect her dedication to the sport and her ability to overcome adversity, making her a celebrated player in the WNBA.