Women’s basketball legend Lisa Leslie is more than just a commentator—she’s a mentor, a role model, and a bridge between generations. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some see her as a trailblazer, others argue that her impact extends far beyond the court, sparking debates about the role of athletes in shaping the future of sports.
In her second season as a color commentator for the Unrivaled league, Leslie, a Naismith Hall of Famer and icon of the game, has had a front-row seat to the sport’s evolution. Yet, her contributions go far beyond the broadcast booth. Leslie, who proudly calls herself a ‘proud auntie,’ has become one of the most sought-after mentors for the league’s players. From weight rooms to saunas, the Unrivaled facility offers a plethora of amenities, but it’s Leslie’s one-on-one instruction and mentorship that players crave most.
This season, Leslie has worked closely with frontcourt stars like Cameron Brink, Dominique Malonga, Ezi Magbegor, and Monique Billings. Her impact is personal and profound. Take Billings, for example, who grew up idolizing Leslie as a WNBA superstar. Now, working with her feels surreal. ‘Nine-year-old me freaks out,’ Billings admits, reflecting on the mentorship that has transformed her game. Leslie challenged Billings to average a double-double, and she delivered, ending her first Unrivaled season with 14.2 points and 10.9 rebounds per game.
And this is the part most people miss: Leslie’s mentorship isn’t just about basketball. She’s equally focused on building mental toughness and self-belief. ‘It’s important to help them mentally,’ Leslie says. ‘They’re dealing with a lot.’ Her proteges credit her with fostering their confidence, both on and off the court.
One of the most exciting aspects of Leslie’s mentorship is her work with Dominique Malonga, a rising star with the potential to redefine dunking in women’s basketball. Malonga, who has already converted three in-game dunks this season, credits Leslie with instilling a ‘dunker’s mindset.’ ‘Every single chance you have an opportunity [to dunk], go for it,’ Leslie advises, reflecting on her own career. ‘I didn’t always take those chances, and I love that for her.’
Leslie’s influence extends beyond individual players. She sees herself as part of a legacy, carrying forward the work of pioneers like Cheryl Miller, Ann Meyers, and Nancy Lieberman. ‘They took the game as far as they could for their era, and they passed it on,’ Leslie reflects. ‘Now, it’s our turn to build for the future—for the little girls watching today.’
But here’s the question that sparks debate: Is Leslie’s impact on the next generation a natural evolution of the sport, or is she redefining what it means to be a mentor in athletics? Her willingness to offer advice on life’s challenges, not just basketball, has created a safe space for players. ‘Sometimes, life is life-ing,’ Leslie says. ‘They know they can come to me.’
For players like Billings and Malonga, working with Leslie is more than a privilege—it’s a source of pride. ‘It’s a blessing,’ Billings says. ‘Twenty years later, that nine-year-old is still admiring, just enamored.’
As Leslie prepares to call Unrivaled’s championship game, her legacy is clear: she’s not just passing on skills; she’s shaping the mindset of the next generation. But what do you think? Is Leslie’s role as a mentor a game-changer, or is it an expected evolution of her career? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going.
