Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, the 11-year WNBA veteran and proud mother of two, is gearing up for her first appearance in the WNBA Finals, scheduled to commence on Friday night with the Las Vegas Aces. The journey leading up to this monumental moment has been nothing short of remarkable, as she returned to the court only two months after giving birth to her son, Yoshua. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Parker-Tyus expressed her gratitude and joy at being able to play the sport she loves once again, describing her current state as “blissful”.
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Amidst the excitement and anticipation surrounding the WNBA Finals, the Las Vegas Aces have emerged as strong contenders for the 2025 WNBA Championship. With key players like Jackie Young, Chelsea Gray, and the exceptional A’ja Wilson leading the team, the Aces have been on a winning streak, clinching victory in their final 16 games of the regular season. Parker-Tyus’s return to the team in September provided an additional boost, further solidifying the team’s camaraderie and spirit.
Despite receiving accolades such as “Superwoman” from her teammates for her inspiring comeback, Parker-Tyus remains humble and grateful for the support she has received. She acknowledges the love and encouragement from her fellow players, describing them as a special group that has made her feel truly valued and appreciated. The veteran player, who has been averaging seven minutes per game since her return, is relishing the opportunity to create history and potentially win a championship alongside her teammates.
For Parker-Tyus, the journey back to the court has been a mix of emotions and challenges. Throughout her pregnancy and the early days of motherhood, she drew motivation from watching her team play and remained dedicated to her training routine. With the unwavering support of her husband, Keevin Tyus, and their young children, Parker-Tyus has successfully navigated the demands of balancing motherhood and professional basketball.
As she continues to adjust to her new routine and pace on the court, Parker-Tyus emphasises the importance of self-care and patience in her post-pregnancy recovery. Recognising that she is still regaining her full strength and agility, she approaches each game with a sense of resilience and determination. The challenges she has overcome serve as a valuable lesson for her children, demonstrating the power of faith, self-belief, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
The upcoming WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the Phoenix Mercury promises to be a thrilling showdown, with fans eagerly anticipating the match-up. As Parker-Tyus prepares to take the court alongside her teammates, she embodies the spirit of resilience and determination, setting an inspiring example for aspiring athletes and mothers alike. The game is not just about winning a championship but also about embodying the values of strength, perseverance, and belief in oneself, values that Parker-Tyus embodies both on and off the court.