Ariel Atkins: From the Court to the Community

Ariel Atkins

Ariel Atkins is a professional basketball player for the Washington Mystics of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She was born on July 30, 1996, in Dallas, Texas. Atkins attended Duncanville High School, where she was a three-time state champion and a McDonald’s All-American. She then played college basketball for the University of Texas, where she was a two-time All-American and helped the Longhorns reach the Final Four in 2016. Atkins was drafted by the Mystics with the seventh overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft.

In her rookie season, Atkins averaged 7.7 points and 2.7 rebounds per game. She helped the Mystics win the WNBA championship in 2019. In the 2020 season, Atkins averaged 10.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. She was named to the WNBA All-Defensive Second Team. In the 2021 season, Atkins averaged 11.2 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. She was named to the WNBA All-Defensive First Team.

Atkins is a versatile player who can play both guard positions. She is a good shooter, passer, and defender. She is also a leader on the court. Atkins is a rising star in the WNBA and is expected to have a long and successful career.

Personal Life

Atkins is the daughter of Karen Atkins and Kevin Lewis. She has two sisters, Ashlee and Alexis. Atkins is a Christian and is active in her church. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys playing video games and listening to music.

Atkins is a role model for young girls. She is a strong and confident woman who is not afraid to be herself. She is also a hard worker and is always striving to be the best that she can be.

Accomplishments and Achievements

* WNBA champion (2019)
* WNBA All-Defensive First Team (2021)
* WNBA All-Defensive Second Team (2020)
* All-American (2017, 2018)
* Three-time Texas state champion (2013, 2014, 2015)
* McDonald’s All-American (2015)

Ariel Atkins: Basketball Journey

Ariel Atkins, an American professional basketball player, has showcased exceptional talent and determination throughout her basketball journey. From her early days as a high school standout to her current role as a key player in the WNBA, she has consistently left an impact on the teams she has played for.

Early Years and High School Career

Atkins’ passion for basketball began at a young age, and she quickly emerged as a talented player in her hometown of Arlington, Texas. She attended Martin High School, where she led her team to three consecutive state championships and was named the Gatorade Texas Player of the Year twice. Her exceptional skills and athleticism caught the attention of college recruiters, and she committed to the University of Texas.

College Career at the University of Texas

Atkins’ collegiate career at Texas was marked by success and accolades. She played a crucial role in leading the Longhorns to three Big 12 Championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances. During her senior season, she averaged 18.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, earning her All-American honors and the Big 12 Player of the Year award.

WNBA Career

After a standout college career, Atkins was selected 7th overall by the Washington Mystics in the 2018 WNBA Draft. She quickly made an impact in the league, showcasing her versatility and ability to contribute in various ways. In her rookie season, she averaged 9.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, helping the Mystics reach the WNBA Finals.

In 2020, Atkins joined the Dallas Wings, where she has continued to play a key role. She is known for her exceptional ball-handling skills, court vision, and ability to create scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. In 2022, she averaged 13.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, leading the Wings to their first playoff appearance since 2018.

Playing Style and Strengths

Ariel Atkins is a versatile guard who can play both the point guard and shooting guard positions. She possesses excellent ball-handling skills and court vision, allowing her to create scoring opportunities for herself and her teammates. Her quickness and agility make her a difficult matchup for opponents, and she is also a capable defender.

Weaknesses

While Atkins is a talented player, she does have some areas where she can improve. She can be prone to turnovers at times, and her shooting consistency can fluctuate. Additionally, she can sometimes struggle to defend against larger, more physical guards.

Statistics, Awards, and Accolades, Ariel atkins

• WNBA All-Rookie Team (2018)
• Big 12 Player of the Year (2018)
• All-American (2018)
• 3x Big 12 Champion (2016, 2017, 2018)
• 2x Texas Gatorade Player of the Year (2014, 2015)

Impact on Teams

Ariel Atkins has had a positive impact on every team she has played for. Her versatility, scoring ability, and leadership skills have made her a valuable asset. She has helped lead her teams to success, including three Big 12 Championships at Texas and a WNBA Finals appearance with the Mystics.

Ariel Atkins: Beyond Basketball

Beyond her remarkable basketball career, Ariel Atkins is a multifaceted individual with a wide range of interests and endeavors. She is actively involved in community service, philanthropy, and social justice initiatives, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Atkins is also a successful entrepreneur, brand partner, and media personality, showcasing her versatility and business acumen.

Community Involvement and Social Impact

Ariel Atkins is passionate about giving back to her community and using her platform to advocate for social change. She is a vocal supporter of organizations that address issues such as racial justice, gender equality, and youth empowerment. Atkins regularly participates in community events, mentorship programs, and fundraising campaigns, demonstrating her commitment to creating a more just and equitable society.

Entrepreneurship and Brand Partnerships

Beyond her basketball endeavors, Atkins has established herself as a successful entrepreneur. She is the founder of “The Ariel Atkins Foundation,” a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young athletes and promoting education and leadership development. Atkins has also partnered with various brands, including Nike, Gatorade, and Tissot, leveraging her influence to promote products and services while aligning herself with companies that share her values.

Media Appearances and Personal Growth

Ariel Atkins has made numerous appearances on television, radio, and podcasts, sharing her insights on basketball, social issues, and her personal journey. Her engaging personality and articulate voice have made her a sought-after guest, allowing her to reach a broader audience and inspire others. Atkins is continuously striving for personal growth and self-improvement, setting ambitious goals and embracing new challenges. She is a role model for young athletes and aspiring leaders, demonstrating that success extends beyond the basketball court.