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 the Huskies win NCAA championships in 2000 and 2002 and earned National Player of the Year honors during her senior season. She finished her college career with 1,378 points, 585 assists and school records in 3-point shooting (45.9%) and free throw percentage (89.2%). Behind her leadership, UConn went a combined 136-9 in her four seasons, establishing itself as a dominant force in women’s soccer.
Bird was selected No. 1 overall by the Seattle Storm in 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 has won five Olympic gold medals and multiple FIBA World Cup titles, 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 its No. 10 jersey at Gampel Pavilion before 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 players in program history to have their numbers retired. The WNBA also recognized the moment and fans flooded social media with congratulatory messages recognizing her impact on the college, professional and international levels.
“Congratulations to Sue Bird, my favorite WNBA player of all time!!!!!!!!! So extremely well deserved!!!!!!!! 👏🏾👏🏾,” one fan wrote.
“Well deserved,” another fan added.
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“My goat!” » posted a fan.
“Thank you Sue! So well deserved 🙌❤️,” another fan remarked.
“I built a role model for so many people in the next generation 🥹,” one fan said.
“A living legend, Sue needs more credit 👏,” another fan agreed.
Bird’s accomplishments at UConn remain among the most iconic in women’s college basketball, including her championship performances, efficiency records and reputation as one of the greatest playmakers the program has produced. Her influence extended well beyond her playing career and she contributed to the growth of the league.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on December 7, 2025, where he first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as Favorite source by clicking here.
