About
Biography
Gillian Bears is a former professional basketball player known for her exceptional skills as a guard. Born on June 14, 1995, in Seattle, Washington, she gained recognition during her high school career at Rainier Beach High School, where she led her team to a state championship and earned multiple All-American honors. She went on to play collegiately at the University of Oregon, where she was a standout player, averaging over 15 points and 5 assists per game in her final season.
Throughout her professional career, Bears played for several teams in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), including the Seattle Storm and the Atlanta Dream. She was selected 12th overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft and quickly established herself as a crucial player, known for her defensive prowess and three-point shooting ability. Bears was instrumental in the Storm's playoff runs, contributing to the team's advancement in the postseason multiple times.
Gillian Bears retired from professional basketball in 2022 but left a lasting impact on the sport, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. Her dedication to the game and her contributions to women's basketball have inspired a new generation of athletes. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Oregon honored her with an induction into the school's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023.