WNBA Icon Lisa leslie Reflects on Shared Court with Richard Hamilton
LOS ANGELES – WNBA legend Lisa Leslie recently shared a poignant recollection of playing alongside former Detroit pistons guard Richard Hamilton during the 2000 USA Basketball Women’s Select Team tour, highlighting a unique cross-league camaraderie. Leslie’s comments surfaced as anticipation builds for the WNBA’s expansion, with a new team slated for 2029 as part of a three-year rollout including franchises in Cleveland (2028) and Philadelphia (2030).
The 2000 tour, designed to prepare the U.S. Women’s National Team for the Sydney Olympics, provided an unusual opportunity for WNBA and NBA players to train together. Leslie described Hamilton’s relentless energy and distinctive running style as immediately noticeable, even in practice. “He was just always moving,” Leslie recalled in a recent interview. “It was incredible to watch, and it definitely made you better just trying to keep up with him.”
This interaction occurred during a period of significant growth for both the WNBA and the NBA, and underscores the interconnectedness of professional basketball. The upcoming WNBA expansion-the league’s second phase of adding three new teams-signals continued momentum and increased visibility for women’s basketball. The Detroit Pistons, currently focused on building around young star Cade Cunningham, will be closely watching the league’s evolution.
Leslie’s reflections offer a glimpse into a time when cross-league collaboration fostered mutual respect and elevated the game for all involved. The shared experience with Hamilton,she noted,reinforced the universal principles of dedication and athleticism that define elite basketball players,irrespective of gender or league affiliation.
