Minnesota Lynx star Maya Moore to sit out 2019 WNBA season

Well it’s official: Maya Moore will not suit up for the Minnesota Lynx in 2019.

Minnesota Lynx forward Maya Moore announced her decision to forego the 2019 WNBA season in an article for The Players’ Tribune on Tuesday afternoon. The former MVP had been on the fence about playing in the upcoming season since the end of the 2018 season.

During the winter months, WNBA players typically head to Europe and Asia to keep up their skills during the offseason. Moore also chose to sit out that season as well. Moore says she will take the time to focus on family and to pursue her ministry.

“My focus in 2019 will not be on professional basketball, but will instead be on the people in my family, as well as on investing my time in some ministry dreams that have been stirring in my heart for many years,” Moore said in the Players’ Tribune article.

Since joining the Lynx in 2011, Moore has won four WNBA championships including the 2013 title where she was named the Finals MVP. Moore also won the WNBA MVP honors in 2014 and is a five time All-Star.

It is unclear whether or not the former UConn standout will return after sitting out in 2019 or if her absence will be felt for longer. This will definitely be a tough role to replace, especially with Minnes

ota already having to fill the void of former point guard Lindsay Whalen, who left to become the head coach at the University of Minnesota. The Lynx did re-sign Seimone Augustus, a longtime leader in the locker room. Free agency will be key for Minnesota as the season draws near.

Shortly after Moore’s announcement was made, Lynx head coach and general manager released a statement on her star player’s decision.

“We support her in this exploration and will continue to provide her the love and care she has always known from her Lynx family.”