Las Vegas Aces' star Jewell Loyd has cemented her legendary status in basketball by clinching her third WNBA championship, marking a triumphant first title with her new team. At 32, Loyd is not just a celebrated athlete on the court but also a person who deeply values her personal time, finding balance through hobbies like pickleball and home life.
Kobe Bryant's Enduring Legacy and the 'Gold Mamba'
The late basketball icon Kobe Bryant played a pivotal role in Loyd's career, bestowing upon her the powerful nickname "Gold Mamba." Their bond transcended the sport, with Bryant acting as a profound mentor. He pushed her to embrace new challenges and even helped her with reading, knowing it was a difficulty for her. Loyd was deeply affected by his passing, dedicating one of her WNBA championship wins to him and his daughter, Gianna.
Bryant's guidance remains a daily inspiration for Loyd. "He wrote me a letter. I actually have it tattooed on my hand, and I look at it every day," she revealed in an interview with Yahoo's "OT Diaries." "It says, 'Be epic and create forever.' That's what he always told me to do. He didn't tell me how to do it, he didn't tell me what it looked like." This philosophy now guides her life and her approach to impacting others.
Off-Court Reset: Pickleball, Cleaning, and Personal Time
Away from the intense glare of the professional league, Jewell Loyd finds her reset button in simple, grounding activities. Her offseason is dedicated to playing pickleball, cleaning her home, exploring new pastimes, and spending quality time with her partner. She emphasizes that these activities are crucial for her mental well-being and help her return to the court refreshed.
Loyd appreciates that fans are now seeing athletes as multi-dimensional people. "People are learning that we're not just athletes. We have other interests; we do other things. They're starting to really lock in on who we are outside of basketball, which is really cool," she noted, highlighting a positive shift in fan engagement.
Embracing the Evolution of the WNBA
As a veteran in the game, Loyd has a unique perspective on the growth of the WNBA. She has witnessed significant transformations every five years, from playing styles and social media presence to fan culture and infrastructure. "Every five years, there’s been some kind of shift... So it's definitely changed and I think that's good. I think the fans are starting to see it too," she observed.
Her recent victory with the Las Vegas Aces is a testament to her enduring skill and adaptability. This third title is not just a personal achievement but also a tribute to her late mentor, Kobe Bryant. Reflecting on his influence, she shared, "Once [he died], I started thinking about my life and how I can affect change in other people... How do I give that back? How do I serve others?" This mindset defines her legacy both on and off the hardwood.
