Ty Young

Tamera “Ty” Young, born on October 30, 1986, in Wilmington, North Carolina, developed into a basketball player who broke records collegiately. She played for James Madison University, where she set the Colonial Athletic Association’s all-time scoring record. Her collegiate career concluded with her leading JMU to the third round of the 2008 WNIT. Young’s accomplishments at James Madison University culminated in her number 11 jersey being retired at Emsley A. Laney High School, a recognition she shares with Michael Jordan.

Young transitioned from college to professional basketball when she was drafted 8th overall in the first round of the 2008 WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream. She was the first player from James Madison University to play in the WNBA. In her WNBA career, she had stints with the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, and Las Vegas Aces, participating in 372 games. Notably, she contributed to the Chicago Sky’s journey to the WNBA Finals in 2014. Her playing career extended overseas, with teams in Latvia, Turkey, France, Israel, and Brazil.

After a distinguished playing career spanning 12 years in the WNBA and 15 years professionally, Young announced her retirement on July 8, 2021. In a move reflecting her continued commitment to basketball, she was hired as an assistant coach for the Chicago Sky on April 17, 2024. Throughout her career, she maintained a focus on authenticity in her endeavors, including brand partnerships.