Lisa Leslie, a name synonymous with women’s basketball, has made an indelible mark on the sport. Born on July 7, 1972, in Gardena, California, she has not only revolutionized the WNBA but also paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Leslie’s towering height and remarkable skills helped her achieve incredible milestones, from becoming the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game to earning a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Today, she is recognized as one of the greatest players in the history of women’s basketball.
As of 2024, Lisa Leslie has ventured into various fields, including coaching and sports analysis, contributing to her growing legacy. Her estimated net worth is around $5 million, built from her illustrious basketball career, endorsements, and media appearances. Leslie’s journey is not just about basketball; it’s a story of breaking barriers and inspiring many young athletes around the world.
Summary of Lisa Leslie’s Life and Achievements
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Lisa Deshaun Leslie |
| Born | July 7, 1972, Gardena, California |
| Height | 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters) |
| Net Worth (2024) | $5 million |
| Famous For | First woman to dunk in a WNBA game |
| WNBA Career | Played for Los Angeles Sparks (1997-2009) |
| Olympic Medals | Four-time Olympic gold medalist |
| Husband | Michael Lockwood, married since 2005 |
| Children | Two: Lauren Jolie and Michael Joseph Lockwood |
| Hall of Fame Induction | 2015 |
Key Takeaways
- Lisa Leslie is a WNBA legend, famous for being the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game.
- She played for the Los Angeles Sparks from 1997 to 2009, winning two WNBA championships and earning three MVP awards.
- As of 2024, her net worth stands at $5 million, built from her career in sports, coaching, and endorsements.
- Leslie is married to Michael Lockwood, a pilot and former basketball player, and they have two children.
Lisa Leslie’s Early Life and Basketball Beginnings
Lisa Leslie was born and raised in California, where her height—6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters)—was a noticeable feature from an early age. She started playing basketball in middle school, quickly rising to become one of the top players in high school. Leslie’s talent and drive earned her a scholarship to the University of Southern California, where she continued to excel.
Her career skyrocketed when she joined the newly-formed Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) in 1997. Leslie was a founding player of the Los Angeles Sparks, and she became one of the league’s most recognizable stars.
How Tall is Lisa Leslie?
Lisa Leslie’s impressive height of 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters) gave her a significant advantage on the basketball court. Her height, combined with her athletic ability, made her an unstoppable force as a center. She could block shots, rebound, and dominate the paint, making her one of the tallest and most formidable players in WNBA history.
Lisa Leslie Dunk – A Historic Moment in Women’s Basketball
On July 30, 2002, Lisa Leslie made history by becoming the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game. This groundbreaking moment was a major milestone, not just for Leslie, but for women’s sports as a whole. Dunking had always been seen as a move exclusive to men’s basketball, and Leslie’s feat challenged that perception. Her dunk is still remembered as a defining moment in the WNBA’s history.
Lisa Leslie Net Worth
As of 2024, Lisa Leslie’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million. Her wealth stems from her successful basketball career, which included two WNBA championships, three MVP awards, and four Olympic gold medals. After retiring from professional play in 2009, Leslie transitioned into a successful career as a coach, sports analyst, and media personality, which further boosted her financial success.
Lisa Leslie Husband – Michael Lockwood
Lisa Leslie is married to Michael Lockwood, a former basketball player who graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy. The couple tied the knot on November 5, 2005, and Lockwood is now a UPS pilot. Together, they have two children, Lauren Jolie and Michael Joseph Lockwood. Despite their busy careers, Leslie and Lockwood prioritize their family, and Leslie has often spoken about the importance of balancing her personal life with her professional achievements.
FAQs
How tall is Lisa Leslie?
Lisa Leslie stands at 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters), making her one of the tallest female basketball players in history.
What is Lisa Leslie’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Lisa Leslie’s net worth is approximately $5 million, earned from her basketball career, endorsements, and media work.
When did Lisa Leslie make history by dunking in a WNBA game?
Lisa Leslie made history by becoming the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game on July 30, 2002.
Who is Lisa Leslie’s husband?
Lisa Leslie is married to Michael Lockwood, a former basketball player and current UPS pilot. They married in 2005 and have two children together.
How many Olympic gold medals does Lisa Leslie have?
Lisa Leslie has won four Olympic gold medals as a member of the U.S. Women’s Basketball Team.
What teams did Lisa Leslie play for in the WNBA?
Lisa Leslie played for the Los Angeles Sparks from 1997 to 2009, during which she won two WNBA championships.
What is Lisa Leslie doing now?
After retiring from basketball, Lisa Leslie became a coach, sports analyst, and media personality. She remains active in the sports world while also focusing on her family.