Ariel Atkins

Ariel Atkins, born on July 30, 1996, is an accomplished American professional basketball player currently showcasing her talents with the Chicago Sky in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball. In addition to her on-court contributions, she has also taken on the role of player development coach at the University of Michigan during the 2023–2024 off-season, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes.

Atkins made a significant impact in her debut season after being drafted seventh overall by the Washington Mystics in the 2018 WNBA draft. Her exceptional skills and determination helped propel the Mystics to the WNBA Finals, and she played a crucial role in their championship victory in 2019. Her defensive abilities have not gone unnoticed, as she has earned five selections to the WNBA All-Defensive Team, making her the first player to achieve this honor in her first five years in the league, a remarkable feat as of 2025.

In 2021, Atkins added another prestigious accolade to her career by winning her first Olympic Gold medal with Team USA at the 2020 Summer Olympics. Her journey in professional basketball continues to inspire many, as she balances her playing career with her dedication to coaching and mentoring young athletes.