Erin Phillips retires from WNBA play

After playing nine seasons in the WNBA, former Dallas Wings guard Erin Phillips announced her retirement from the league. The native of Australia was waived by the Wings on May 10 after an offseason of playing in the inaugural season of the professional Australian rules football league for women (AFLW). She was named the MVP of the league after leading the Adelaide Crows to the premiership.

In a release on the Crows website, Phillips indicated that she had concerns about “the extensive travel commitments of the WNBA, which ensure long periods away from her young family.”

“After nine years, two titles and some great memories playing in the WNBA, I’ve now got the opportunity to start the next stage of my professional career in sport.”

“I’ve loved every minute of my time with the Wings and want to thank them for their consideration and the professionalism they have shown throughout the process.”

She started her career with the Connecticut Sun. After three years with the Sun, she played for the Indiana Fever for three years. Before she came to the Wings, she played for the Los Angeles Sparks for a season.

Phillips won WNBA titles with the Phoenix Mercury and the Indiana Fever. She was the Wings’ co-captain in 2016. During her career she scored 1,454 points and dished out 462 assists and pulled down 507 rebounds.

A two-time Olympian, Phillips is keeping her options open for future commitments with the Australian national team according to Crows senior coach Bec Goddard.

“We’re looking forward to Erin returning to Adelaide in November and the physical break will no doubt benefit her body, allowing her to focus on potential future commitments with the Opals as well as the AFLW.”