A Stellar Career with Unfinished Business
Tina Charles, a luminary in the WNBA, is on the cusp of surpassing some of the league’s legends in scoring. With 7,371 points, she’s just shy of Tamika Catchings’ 7,380 and within reach of Tina Thompson’s 7,488. Despite her impressive stats, a championship ring has eluded her. This pursuit of a title saw Charles move from the New York Liberty to the Washington Mystics, then the Phoenix Mercury, and finally the Seattle Storm. However, the 2022 season ended without a championship, and Charles faced criticism for her midseason team changes.
A Time to Reflect
Following a tough season with the Storm and a disappointing playoff exit, Charles stepped away from the game, skipping the 2023 WNBA season entirely. During this hiatus, she reflected on her career and reignited her passion for basketball. “I was retired. To me, I was done playing,” Charles shared. Yet, her love for the game persisted, leading her to China, where she had previously played for five seasons. This stint rekindled her desire to return to the WNBA.
Embracing a New Role with the Atlanta Dream
In 2024, Charles joined the Atlanta Dream, a team in playoff contention. Reunited with head coach Tanisha Wright and general manager Dan Padover, former colleagues from her Liberty days, Charles found a sense of familiarity and purpose. “The role that Tanisha needed for me, having a vet on that team, being able to help guide Rhyne Howard, that was more exciting for me versus what I was trying to attain on the prior teams,” she said.
Leadership and Mentorship
Charles’ focus has shifted from solely pursuing a championship to nurturing the next generation of players. This season, she has embraced a leadership role, guiding younger teammates and setting an example both on and off the court. Wright, who has always seen Charles as a sister, noted the transformation in her leadership style. “Tina didn’t have to do much leading in New York. Now, she’s the one who has to be impactful every night,” Wright explained.
Most consecutive double-doubles by a rookie in
WNBA history:2024 Angel Reese 6
2010 Tina Charles 6
1998 Cindy Brown 6
2019 Teaira McCowan 5 pic.twitter.com/ZfeJXB0Eht— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) June 16, 2024
Beyond the Court
Off the court, Charles has delved into filmmaking, with her works premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival. She continues to explore storytelling, inspired by her father’s legacy and the stories of others in diverse fields. Despite her artistic endeavors, basketball remains a priority. Charles’ commitment to the game and her team is evident in her performance, leading the Dream in rebounds and being a top scorer alongside Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard.
A Humble Legacy
As Charles reflects on her career, she aims to be remembered as someone humble, content, and grounded in her faith. Whether on the court or behind the camera, she continues to inspire, demonstrating resilience and dedication. For now, Charles remains a vital part of the Dream, contributing her experience and passion to the team’s success.
In her renewed journey, Tina Charles embodies the spirit of growth and perseverance, proving that leadership and love for the game can redefine a legacy.
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