Sue Bird remains one of the most decorated and influential figures in women’s basketball history. A standout with the UConn Huskies from 1998 to 2002, she helped lead the Huskies to NCAA championships in 2000 and 2002 and won National Player of the Year honors in her senior season. She finished her college career with 1,378 points, 585 assists and school-record marks in 3-point shooting (45.9%) and free-throw percentage (89.2%). Behind her leadership, UConn went a combined 136-9 during her four seasons, establishing itself as a dominant force in the women’s game.
Bird was selected No. 1 overall by the Seattle Storm in the 2002 WNBA Draft and went on to build a two-decade professional career unmatched in longevity and consistency. She became the league’s all-time leader in assists, games played, minutes and assists; earned 13 All-Star selections; and won four WNBA championships.
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WNBA legend Sue Bird (right) and her partner, soccer star Megan Rapinoe, attend the 2024 Paris Olympics.© Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
On the international stage, she captured five Olympic gold medals and multiple FIBA World Cup titles, further cementing her status as one of the most accomplished players the sport has ever seen.
On Sunday, Bird added another major milestone. UConn officially retired her No. 10 jersey at Gampel Pavilion ahead of the team’s game against the DePaul Blue Demons, a moment the program announced on Instagram with the message:
“No. 10 is officially retired 💙.”
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The honor places Bird alongside Rebecca Lobo and Swin Cash as the only women’s players in program history to have their numbers retired. The WNBA also acknowledged the moment, and fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages recognizing her impact on the college, professional and international levels.
“Congrats to my all time favorite WNBA player Sue Bird!!!!!!!!! So extremely well deserved!!!!!!!! 👏🏾👏🏾,” one fan wrote.
“Well deserved,” another fan added.
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“My goat!” a fan posted.
“Thank you Sue! So well deserved 🙌❤️,” another fan remarked.
“Built the blueprint for so many in the next generation 🥹,” said one fan.
“A living legend, sue needs more credit 👏,” another fan acknowledged.
Bird’s accomplishments at UConn remain some of the most iconic in women’s college basketball, including her championship performances, efficiency records and reputation as one of the greatest point guards the program has produced. Her influence has extended far beyond her playing career, and she has helped drive the league’s growth.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 7, 2025, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
