Skylar Diggins dropping “Smith” isn’t just a name change—it’s a declaration. It’s about moving forward, honoring her journey, and embracing a future she’s carving out with courage, grace, and resilience
In sports and in life, names carry power. And as she takes the court with “Diggins” on her back once again, it’s clear: she’s not just returning to her name—she’s returning to herself.
As the Seattle Storm navigate the 2025 season, Skylar Diggins-Smith is clearly the heartbeat of the team.
She’s bringing the energy, the playmaking, the personality, and the leadership that every winning team needs.
From her flashy entrances to her fiery performances, Diggins is setting the league on fire once again.
And with her signature swagger and that infectious new celebration, she’s reminding everyone that the WNBA is more exciting when Skylar Diggins-Smith is in full flight.
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Table of Contents
Skylar Diggins-Smith: Veteran’s Spark Ignites the Seattle Storm
As the 2025 WNBA season kicks off, one name generating renewed excitement is Skylar Diggins-Smith.1
The 34-year-old point guard is entering her 11th season in the league and bringing a wave of energy, leadership, and style to the Seattle Storm.
In what marks her second season with the team, Diggins appears more vibrant and confident than ever—ready to make an impact on and off the court.
— Skylar Diggins-Smith (@SkyDigg4) March 10, 2024
A Tunnel Fit Entrance with Attitude
Before the Seattle Storm took on the Dallas Wings, Diggins-Smith posted a series of photos and videos on Instagram that set social media abuzz.
Her entrance at College Park Center was nothing short of show-stopping, as she sported a high-collar, cobalt-blue tunnel fit that exuded both elegance and edge.
Fashion has always been a strong part of Diggins-Smith’s identity, and she once again proved why she’s one of the WNBA’s most stylish athletes.
The tunnel walk has become a way for WNBA stars to express individuality, and Diggins used it to make a bold statement: she’s back, and she’s ready to shine.
A New Celebration Shakes Things Up
The highlight of her Instagram post wasn’t just the fashion—it was the new celebration move she introduced during the Storm’s clash against the Wings.
Captured in the final clip of her post, Diggins unveiled a new celebratory dance that she had clearly been saving for a big moment.
Accompanied by the cheeky caption, “Shake what your mama gave you,” the celebration was full of joy and energy, instantly resonating with fans and teammates alike.
It was playful, confident, and quintessentially Diggins-Smith—reflecting her mindset going into the new season.
Skylar Diggins: Bouncing Back from a Rough Season Opener
The Storm’s campaign didn’t start the way they hoped, suffering a tough loss to the Phoenix Mercury in their season opener.2
Diggins-Smith showed flashes of brilliance in that game but ultimately couldn’t prevent the defeat. The team knew they needed to regroup quickly before facing a talented Dallas Wings squad.
Fortunately, they delivered. With standout performances from Diggins-Smith and Nneka Ogwumike, the Storm bounced back with a crucial win.
It wasn’t just a victory on the scoreboard—it was a statement win that set the tone for the rest of the season.
Vintage Diggins-Smith: Playmaker, Scorer, Leader
In the Storm’s victory over Dallas, Diggins-Smith reminded everyone why she has long been considered one of the league’s top guards.
She scored 21 points, dished out a game-high nine assists, and added a steal in an impressive 36-minute outing. Her ability to control the tempo, break down defenses, and find teammates in rhythm was on full display.
While Nneka Ogwumike’s 23 points were crucial, it was Diggins-Smith’s playmaking that held everything together.
Her leadership, vocal presence, and steady hand in clutch moments made her the heart of Seattle’s offensive engine.
Embracing Her Veteran Status
At 34, Diggins-Smith is no longer the young rising star she once was—she’s a seasoned veteran, a mentor, and a role model. But rather than shy away from the responsibility that comes with age and experience, she’s embracing it.
She’s guiding younger players, taking charge in team huddles, and setting the tone for how professionals should prepare, perform, and carry themselves.
Her veteran savvy and leadership are invaluable for a Storm team with a mix of experienced stars and developing talent.
Chemistry with Nneka Ogwumike Blossoms
One of the early bright spots for Seattle this season has been the developing on-court chemistry between Diggins-Smith and Nneka Ogwumike, the former MVP and one of the most reliable frontcourt players in WNBA history.
Their pick-and-roll game is fluid, and Diggins’ court vision allows her to feed Ogwumike in optimal positions.
Together, they give the Storm a formidable inside-outside threat that opponents must respect.
The duo’s connection is quickly becoming one of the most potent combinations in the league, and if it continues to develop, the Storm could emerge as serious playoff contenders.
Skylar Diggins: Reclaiming Her Place Among the Elite
Injuries and maternity leave in recent seasons have limited Diggins-Smith’s time on the court, but now she’s healthy, hungry, and highly motivated to remind the basketball world of her elite status.3
Her performance against Dallas was a strong start, but make no mistake—she has her sights set on more than just solid games.
Skylar Diggins-Smith is looking to reclaim her place among the WNBA’s top-tier guards.
She’s been an All-Star, an All-WNBA selection, and a cornerstone for every team she’s played on. Now, she wants to add a deep playoff run—and potentially a championship—to her legacy.
A Personality That Resonates Beyond the Game
Diggins-Smith’s energy extends beyond the hardwood. With a magnetic personality, she has long been a fan favorite and a trailblazer for women in sports.
Whether it’s through her activism, her brand partnerships, or her social media presence, she continues to inspire fans, particularly young girls who look up to her.
Her celebration dance is already trending, and her fashion statements are featured in sports and lifestyle publications alike. In a league that thrives on star power and marketability, Diggins is a perfect ambassador.
Eyes on the Prize: Postseason Goals
For Skylar and the Storm, the ultimate goal this season is clear: a return to playoff prominence.
After a transitional period following the departure of franchise legend Sue Bird, Seattle is searching for its new identity—and Diggins-Smith is at the center of it.
She’s not just playing to win games; she’s helping build a new culture. That culture is based on confidence, work ethic, and unity—values she embodies with every performance.
The Importance of a Strong Start
- In a shortened WNBA season, early momentum can define a team’s trajectory.
- Diggins-Smith understands the importance of setting the tone, especially for a team looking to establish chemistry.
- Her leadership in bouncing back after the season-opening loss showed not just her resilience, but also her ability to rally those around her.
- With her foot on the gas from the get-go, Diggins is pushing her team toward early-season success—something that could pay dividends come playoff time.
- Skylar Diggins-Smith’s journey in the WNBA hasn’t been without adversity.
- She’s battled through injuries, pregnancy, and criticism, yet continues to evolve and improve. Her presence on the court is a symbol of resilience, strength, and determination.
- Now in her 11th season, she’s not just surviving—she’s thriving. And with every no-look pass, pull-up jumper, or electrifying celebration, she proves that greatness doesn’t fade with age—it matures.
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Skylar Diggins Drops “Smith”: Returning to the Spotlight in Style
When Skylar Diggins sat behind the microphone at the Seattle Storm’s introductory press conference ahead of the 2025 WNBA season, a small but significant detail sparked curiosity.
The nameplate in front of her no longer read “Skylar Diggins-Smith”—instead, it simply read “Skylar Diggins.” It wasn’t just a stylistic change, but rather a reflection of a deeper personal transformation.
Let’s explore why the name change matters, what it represents in her personal and professional journey, and how it sets the tone for her 11th WNBA season.
A Simple Question That Opened the Door
The press conference moment seemed innocuous—just a routine media event to welcome Diggins to the Storm—but one reporter’s question brought immediate clarity.
“Yes, it does say Skylar Diggins, and I would like to be addressed as that moving forward,” Diggins replied with composure.
That moment was brief, yet it spoke volumes. It wasn’t just about branding or media presentation—it was about reclaiming identity. Diggins’ calm and confident confirmation showed this decision wasn’t impulsive; it was intentional and meaningful.
The End of a Chapter: Divorce From Daniel Smith
The change in her last name comes in the wake of a personal and private transition—her separation and ongoing divorce from her husband, Daniel Smith.
The couple had been married for eight years, and earlier reports confirmed that Diggins filed for divorce in November 2024.
Court documents referred to the marriage as “irretrievably broken,” and though neither Skylar nor Daniel has publicly commented in detail, the name change is a quiet acknowledgment of this life shift.
It’s a return to her roots—reclaiming the name that first made headlines in high school and at Notre Dame.
Skylar Diggins: Leading With Grace Through Change
At the end of the day, Skylar Diggins isn’t defined by a hyphen or surname. Her legacy is built on perseverance, elite performance, and the ability to rise stronger with every challenge.
Her name may have changed, but her game—and her impact—remains as strong as ever.
What stands out most in Diggins’ journey is how gracefully she has handled the intersection of public scrutiny and private change.
She hasn’t used her platform to air grievances or spark controversy; instead, she’s demonstrated maturity, emotional intelligence, and strength.
Her silence on the specifics of the divorce doesn’t signal weakness—it shows resolve. By focusing on her children, her career, and her community, she’s modeling what it means to lead with integrity through transition.
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What This Means for Her Future?
With a revitalized identity, a strong start to the season, and a renewed focus on motherhood and leadership, the future looks bright for Skylar Diggins.
Whether it’s an All-Star appearance, a deep playoff run with Seattle, or continued advocacy off the court, she’s poised to make her 11th WNBA season one of her most meaningful yet.
Fans will watch not just to see her crossovers or assists—but to witness a woman writing a new chapter on her terms.
Diggins’ decision to drop her married name after filing for divorce resonates with many women who’ve undergone similar journeys. For public figures, especially female athletes, such decisions are often magnified under the public eye—but they are deeply personal.
In reclaiming her maiden name, Diggins joins a growing list of women across sports, entertainment, and public life choosing to restore their original identity as a statement of autonomy.
It’s more than a formality—it’s a reaffirmation of self, especially in the wake of emotional transitions like divorce.
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