About
Biography
Melissa Book is a former professional basketball player who gained recognition for her exceptional skills on the court during her collegiate and professional career. Born on May 14, 1990, in Chicago, Illinois, she attended the University of Illinois, where she played for the Fighting Illini women's basketball team. Over her four-year collegiate career, Book earned All-Big Ten honors and became a cornerstone of the team's offense, averaging over 15 points and 6 rebounds per game during her senior year.
Following her successful college career, Book was drafted in the second round of the WNBA Draft in 2012 by the Phoenix Mercury. She quickly made an impact in the league, known for her sharp shooting ability and defensive prowess. Throughout her five seasons in the WNBA, Book played a pivotal role in leading her team to three playoff appearances, including a run to the WNBA Finals in 2014, where they finished as runners-up.
After retiring from professional basketball in 2017, Book transitioned into coaching, applying her extensive knowledge of the game to develop young athletes. Her contributions to basketball, particularly in promoting women's sports, have left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of female players to pursue their dreams at both amateur and professional levels. Book continues to be involved in community outreach, advocating for youth sports programs and the importance of education through athletics.