ATLANTA — For a decade, Tiffany Hayes called this city home, drafted by the Atlanta Dream in 2012 and carrying them to the WNBA Finals a year later. After playing in Atlanta until 2022 and spending a single season with the Connecticut Sun, Hayes announced her retirement, declaring it was the end of her playing career. Yet, after stepping away for just five months to prioritize family, her health, and interests outside of basketball, she returned to the league with the Las Vegas Aces.
Now, at age 37, Hayes finds herself back in the championship round, this time wearing the uniform of the expansion Golden State Valkyries. Trailing 2-1 in the WNBA Finals following a Game 3 loss in Atlanta, the Valkyries are looking to their veteran guard to right the ship. In consecutive losses, Hayes has emerged as a rare offensive bright spot, utilizing her signature penetration into the lane to force defensive collapses. Despite back-to-back shooting struggles for the team overall, Hayes has maintained an efficiency close to 50% off the bench, briefly halting the Dream’s momentum during the third quarter of Game 3.
Following 14 seasons in the league, a championship remains the missing piece for Hayes, who won two NCAA titles at UConn. Head coach Natalie Nakase, who forged a strong working relationship with Hayes during their time together in Las Vegas, emphasized the player’s relentless drive. When Nakase accepted the head coaching position in the Bay Area, securing Hayes’ commitment on a leap of faith provided vital comfort for the first-time head coach.
Opponents and teammates alike have noted Hayes’ enduring athleticism and tenacity. Dream starting forward Naz Hillmon, who was a rookie during Hayes’ final season in Atlanta, observed that the veteran has seemingly grown even faster and more formidable over the years. Meanwhile, teammate Gabby Williams praised the leadership and perspective Hayes brings to an expansion franchise experiencing a dream season, noting that her daily gratitude and unmatched competitive fire elevate the entire roster as they prepare to face elimination.
