Just one season after being selected No. 8 overall in the WNBA Draft, Alissa Pili has been waived by the Minnesota Lynx, and fans are not taking the news lightly.
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A standout at Utah and one of the most electrifying players in women’s college basketball, Pili quickly became a fan favorite. Her combination of size, skill and scoring ability made her one of the most highly anticipated rookies entering the league. But after a short stint in Minnesota, her professional journey has taken a turn.
The news came shortly after the Lynx suffered a narrow six-point loss to the Chicago Sky, a game that featured other stars from Pili’s draft class, including Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. While the Lynx still boast one of the best records in the league, the decision to cut Pili, especially so close to that high-profile matchup, has left fans reeling on social media.
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Pili appeared in 36 games over two seasons, averaging 2.2 points on 43.3% shooting and grabbing 1.2 rebounds per game. While her on-court impact may have been limited, supporters argue that she never got the minutes or opportunities to truly show her potential.
Beyond her stats, Pili represents something bigger. As one of the few Polynesian and Indigenous players in the WNBA, she carries cultural significance that resonates with fans far beyond the box score. Many hoped she’d have time to grow within a veteran-heavy team.
thank you, Pili. 💙 pic.twitter.com/dHdmbzOmH5
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) July 13, 2025
While the decision may be rooted in roster logistics and team strategy, the emotional response from fans speaks volumes. There’s still hope that Pili will land on her feet, perhaps with another team, or even return stronger down the road.