Maya Moore, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, has made an unforgettable mark in the WNBA and beyond. Born on June 11, 1989, in Jefferson City, Missouri, she dominated the court with the Minnesota Lynx, winning four championships and numerous accolades. However, her journey extends beyond sports, encompassing her advocacy for social justice and her personal life, including her marriage to Jonathan Irons. As of 2024, Maya Moore has retired from professional basketball, leaving behind a legacy of both athletic greatness and inspiring activism.
Moore’s impact is not just measured in points or titles. Her decision to retire early to focus on social justice work, particularly the fight to free her now-husband Jonathan Irons from wrongful imprisonment, has solidified her as a true champion in more ways than one.
Key Takeaways
- Maya Moore is a former WNBA star with an impressive career that includes four championships and a 2014 MVP award.
- She retired from professional basketball in 2021 to focus on social justice and personal commitments.
- Moore’s net worth is estimated at $300 million, thanks to her successful career, endorsements, and advocacy.
- She is married to Jonathan Irons, a man she helped free from wrongful imprisonment.
- Moore stands 6 feet tall and was one of the most versatile players in WNBA history.
Maya Moore WNBA Career – A Legacy of Excellence
Maya Moore’s professional basketball career began in 2011 when she was selected as the first overall pick by the Minnesota Lynx. Her dominance on the court was immediate, and she quickly became a key figure in leading the Lynx to four WNBA championships in 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017.
Moore’s versatility as a forward, combining scoring, defense, and leadership, made her one of the best in the league. Throughout her career, she was named to six All-Star teams and won the WNBA MVP award in 2014. Averaging 19.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, Moore’s stats reflect her all-around contributions to the game.
Maya Moore’s Husband – Jonathan Irons and Their Inspiring Story
Maya Moore’s marriage to Jonathan Irons is a story of love, justice, and determination. Irons was wrongfully convicted of burglary and assault when he was just 16 years old. After serving over 20 years in prison, he was exonerated in 2020, largely due to Maya Moore’s relentless advocacy.
Moore first met Irons through a prison ministry program, and their relationship grew stronger as she worked to clear his name. They married in September 2021, a year after his release. Moore’s dedication to her husband’s freedom showcased her commitment to justice, making her decision to step away from basketball even more understandable.
Why Did Maya Moore Retire?
In 2021, Maya Moore officially announced her retirement from professional basketball. Unlike most athletes who retire due to age or injury, Moore’s reason was deeply personal. She wanted to dedicate herself fully to advocating for social justice, particularly in her efforts to free her husband, Jonathan Irons.
Moore had taken a hiatus from basketball in 2019 to focus on Irons’ case, and after his exoneration, she decided to step away from the sport permanently. Moore’s retirement, though a loss for basketball fans, was a testament to her values and her belief that her work off the court was just as important as her accomplishments on it.
Maya Moore Stats – A Hall of Fame Worthy Career
Maya Moore’s WNBA stats are nothing short of remarkable. She consistently ranked among the league’s top players in several categories, including scoring and steals. Her ability to perform at both ends of the court made her a nightmare for opponents and a favorite among fans.
| Maya Moore Career Stats | Details |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 19.2 |
| Rebounds per game | 6.2 |
| Assists per game | 3.3 |
| WNBA MVP | 2014 |
| All-Star Selections | 6 |
| WNBA Championships | 4 (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017) |
Her best season came in 2014 when she averaged a career-high 23.9 points per game, earning her the WNBA MVP title. With stats like these, Moore is undoubtedly a future Hall of Famer.
Maya Moore Net Worth – A Basketball Star Turned Advocate
As of 2024, Maya Moore’s estimated net worth is around $300 million. This wealth comes from her basketball career, lucrative endorsement deals (including a historic partnership with Air Jordan), and her work in social justice. Moore’s financial success is a testament to her impact on and off the court.
Her role as a trailblazer in women’s sports has opened doors for future athletes, and her financial achievements reflect the growing prominence of women in professional sports. Even in retirement, Moore continues to inspire with her advocacy work.
How Tall Is Maya Moore?
Maya Moore stands at an impressive 6 feet (183 cm) tall. Her height, combined with her athleticism, allowed her to excel as a forward in both college and professional basketball. Her size and skills made her a force to be reckoned with on the court, helping her dominate in nearly every aspect of the game.
Summary of Maya Moore’s Life
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Maya April Moore |
| Born | June 11, 1989, Jefferson City, Missouri |
| WNBA Career | 2011–2021 (Minnesota Lynx) |
| WNBA Championships | 4 (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017) |
| WNBA MVP | 2014 |
| Husband | Jonathan Irons (married in 2021) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $300 million (as of 2024) |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Why Did She Retire? | Focus on social justice and personal life |
FAQs
Why did Maya Moore retire?
Maya Moore retired in 2021 to focus on social justice work and her personal life, especially her efforts to free her husband, Jonathan Irons, from wrongful imprisonment.
How tall is Maya Moore?
Maya Moore is 6 feet (183 cm) tall, a height that greatly contributed to her success as a forward in the WNBA.
Who is Maya Moore’s husband?
Maya Moore is married to Jonathan Irons, a man she helped free from wrongful imprisonment after he served over 20 years for a crime he did not commit.
What are Maya Moore’s career stats?
Throughout her WNBA career, Maya Moore averaged 19.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. She is a four-time WNBA champion and won the league MVP in 2014.
What is Maya Moore’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Maya Moore’s net worth is estimated at around $300 million, thanks to her basketball career, endorsements, and advocacy work.