Saniya Rivers, a rookie for the Connecticut Sun, made her WNBA debut on May 20 against the Las Vegas Aces, after missing the preseason and the opening game of the regular season. The eighth overall pick in this year’s draft took a break to be with her family following the passing of her mother, and she openly shared her emotions after the match.
“Losing my mom has been the toughest thing I’ve ever faced in my life, and I’m playing for her,” Rivers expressed. “I came out here to play for her, and I know she’s looking over me and protecting me in a different way. This night meant the world to me because this is what she wanted for me.
“I never thought I’d be here. I wish she was here to see it,” Rivers said, struggling to hold back tears. “The coaching staff has been remarkably consistent, understanding, and supportive. You won’t encounter another team that is as compassionate and caring as they are.
“My mom had the chance to meet the staff and the team before her passing, which allowed her to rest knowing I was in good hands. Even though it’s challenging, I’m aware that I’m loved and in a program that will support me in any way possible. I’m just thankful,” Rivers concluded, her mood lifting as she smiled.
“Losing my mom has been the toughest thing I’ve ever faced in my life, and I’m playing for her. … This night meant the world to me because this is what she wanted for me.”
Saniya Rivers on her WNBA debut and the support from her team 🧡 pic.twitter.com/3HXgXtWkfV
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Rivers went on to describe how significantly the Sun organization and her teammates supported her through this difficult time.
“I’ve been trying not to cry all day,” Rivers shared, pausing for a moment before continuing. She reflected on how her teammates had supported her during some challenging days. “They’ve done so much for me, both on and off the court. During the two weeks I was away, Tina checked in on me every single day, which was incredible since she didn’t have to do that.
“You hear about how different teams operate, and you never know how a rookie will be treated by a veteran. The fact that she stepped up to take on a big sister role motivated me immensely.”
Rivers scored a respectable 11 points, grabbed four rebounds, and recorded two assists in her debut, despite the team’s 87-62 loss to the Aces. The Connecticut Sun are set to return to the court on May 23 against the Minnesota Lynx, providing Rivers another opportunity to shine while honoring her mother.
Image Source: Saniya Rivers @ Instagram
