On Monday April 15, 2024, Alissa Pili (of Samoan and Inupiaq descent) was drafted 8th overall by the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA draft.

What made the Forward’s selection so rare is the triumph it represented not only for her, but her community and culture, too. She made history as the first Ute to be selected since 2019 and achieving the second-highest draft pick in program history.

Intertwining the rich traditions of Polynesia with life amongst the indigenous peoples of frosty Anchorage, Alaska, her journey to the dazzling lights of the WNBA is a testament to her character and resolve.

Pili was clearly an athletic force to be reckoned with even in her early school days, where she explored her abilities as a formidable football player and wrestler.

At Dimond High School, she carved her name into Alaska's basketball history as a two-time national MaxPreps Athlete of the Year, three-time Gatorade Alaska Player of the Year, and four-time Cook Inlet Conference Player of the Year.

Having conquered the court there, Pili left high school in 2019 as Alaska’s all-time leading scorer with a then-record 2,614 points.

Pili's decision to join the University of Utah, under Coach Lynne Roberts’s mentorship, helped her become one of the nation's top college players.

Earning the title of Pac-12 Player of the Year during the 2022-23 season, Pili secured her place as a three-time All-Pac-12 recipient.

Pili’s prowess shone through in strong shot statistics over her two seasons at Utah, including a 56.8% field goal conversion rate, 41.1% from the 3-point range, and 80.9% on free-throws.

As she embarks on her professional career, Pili carries with her the hopes and dreams of her community.

With a rookie contract worth $73,439 and a bright future ahead, Alissa Pili's story is a strong voice encouraging younger generations to strive for their goals, no matter their background or situation.

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