LaToya Sanders

LaToya Antoinette Sanders, born on September 11, 1986, is a distinguished American-Turkish basketball coach and former player. Known as Lara Sanders in Turkey, she has made significant contributions to the sport both on and off the court. Currently, she serves as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Dream in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), where her expertise continues to shape the next generation of players.

Sanders' basketball journey began at the University of North Carolina, where she honed her skills before entering the professional arena. In the 2008 WNBA draft, she was selected by the Phoenix Mercury, marking the start of a remarkable seven-season career in the league. Throughout her tenure, she played for notable teams including the Minnesota Lynx, Los Angeles Sparks, and Washington Mystics, culminating in a championship victory with the Mystics in her final season in 2019.

In addition to her WNBA accomplishments, Sanders has also showcased her talent internationally, playing in countries such as Israel, Turkey, Russia, and Italy. Her dedication to the sport led her to acquire Turkish citizenship in 2012, allowing her to represent the Turkey women's national basketball team, including a notable appearance at the 2016 Summer Olympics.

After transitioning from player to coach, Sanders took on roles as an assistant and later associate head coach for the Mystics. Her coaching career has been marked by a commitment to developing players and fostering a competitive spirit. In 2025, she was appointed as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Dream, further solidifying her impact on women's basketball.