Maria Saia

Maria Saia is a professional basketball athlete known for her exceptional skills on the court and her contributions to women's basketball. Born on March 15, 1995, in Springfield, Illinois, she attended the University of Tennessee, where she had a standout collegiate career. During her time with the Lady Volunteers, she was recognized as an All-American and led her team to several NCAA tournament appearances, ultimately reaching the Final Four in 2017.

Following her successful college career, Saia was selected as the fifth overall pick in the WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm in 2017. In her rookie season, she quickly made an impact, earning WNBA Rookie of the Year honors and helping her team secure a playoff berth. Over the next several years, she became known for her scoring ability, playmaking skills, and defensive prowess, contributing to the Storm's championship wins in 2018 and 2020.

Saia is also celebrated for her involvement in community service and youth basketball programs, using her platform to inspire young athletes, particularly young girls, to pursue their dreams in sports. As of 2023, she continues to compete at a high level in the WNBA and has been regarded as one of the cornerstone players of women's basketball, leaving a significant legacy in both her collegiate and professional careers.