Shakira Austin Injury, What Happened to Shakira Austin?
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jun 26, 2023
Who is Shakira Austin?
Shakira Austin is a Basketballer stands as a beacon of passion and talent in the world of professional basketball. As an American athlete, she graces the courts as a formidable force for both the Israeli Elitzur Ramla and the revered Washington Mystics of the WNBA. Her journey began on the college stage, where she honed her skills and showcased her indomitable spirit while representing the University of Maryland and later Ole Miss.
With a heart that burns brighter than the sun, Austin epitomizes the essence of passion on the hardwood. Her unwavering dedication to the game is evident in every swift movement, every fierce rebound, and every awe-inspiring block. The fire that ignites within her fuels her drive to push boundaries and reach new heights in her basketball career.
Austin's prowess on the court has garnered attention and admiration from fans around the world. Her unique blend of athleticism, finesse, and unwavering determination sets her apart as a true force to be reckoned with. When she takes to the court, a wave of excitement electrifies the atmosphere, as spectators eagerly anticipate witnessing the magic she creates with every dribble, every shot, and every strategic play.
Not only is Austin a marvel to behold on the basketball court, but she also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the globe. Her journey from college standout to professional star showcases the power of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering belief in one's abilities. With each game she plays, she reminds us all that dreams can be realized through unwavering dedication and an unyielding love for the game.
Shakira Austin Injury
In a deeply distressing turn of events on Sunday afternoon, WNBA sensation Shakira Austin endured a heartbreaking injury that left fans and teammates shaken to their core. The radiant star of the Washington Mystics, known for her breathtaking performances, tragically suffered a significant leg injury during the course of the game. The harrowing incident unfolded before the eyes of stunned spectators as Austin, in the midst of her athletic prowess, encountered a dreadful mishap.
The anguish etched on her face was palpable as she faltered, her left hamstring betraying her in an instant. The excruciating pain took hold, rendering her unable to continue on her own. Witnessing their beloved teammate's anguish, the Mystics rushed to her aid, displaying unwavering support and unity. With great care and compassion, they carried Austin off the floor, the weight of the moment hanging heavy upon them.
The atmosphere in the arena grew somber, filled with collective concern and heartfelt prayers for her well-being. As news of the distressing incident spread, ESPN shared the devastating update on their Twitter platform. The social media post highlighted the gravity of the situation, conveying the sorrowful truth of Austin's left hamstring injury. The precise circumstances leading to this heart-wrenching outcome remained shrouded in uncertainty, leaving fans and well-wishers with a profound sense of shock and dismay.
In this difficult time, the thoughts and empathetic wishes of the basketball community and beyond are directed towards Shakira Austin. May she find solace and strength during her recovery journey, drawing support from the unwavering love and encouragement of her fans, teammates, and all those touched by her remarkable spirit.
What Happened to Shakira Austin?
In a game against the New York Liberty on Sunday, Washington Mystics center Shakira Austin suffered a notable injury that forced her to be carried off the court. The Spun reported that Austin appeared to injure her left hamstring, leading to her being escorted into the locker room. Shortly after the incident, the Mystics confirmed that she would be unable to continue playing due to a hip injury.
Trainers and teammate Natasha Cloud, a key member of the Mystics' 2019 WNBA championship team, assisted in carrying Austin off the court, as mentioned in a tweet by Arielle Chambers, the founder of HighlightHER. Despite the unfortunate turn of events, Austin had a productive night on the court, contributing six points, five rebounds, one steal, and one block in her 22 minutes of play at the Barclays Center.
The 22-year-old center has been performing well in her second WNBA season, averaging 11.8 points, eight rebounds, one assist, and one block per game. She was recognized for her outstanding rookie season by being named to the WNBA's All-Rookie team in 2022, alongside notable players such as Rhyne Howard of the Atlanta Dream, NaLyssa Smith of the Indiana Fever, Rebekah Gardner of the Chicago Sky, and Queen Egbo of the Fever.
Natasha Cloud, the 15th overall pick in the 2015 WNBA Draft, has been a vital contributor for the Mystics this season, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 assists per game. The team has been performing well with a regular season record of 8-4. In their recent victory over the Chicago Sky, Cloud and Austin combined for 26 points, showcasing their impact on the team's success.
Adding to the Mystics' injury concerns, guard Kristi Toliver is set to miss a minimum of two weeks due to plantar fasciitis discomfort. The team announced that Toliver, a veteran player with 14 years of experience playing for the Sky, Mystics, and Los Angeles Sparks, will undergo re-evaluation in early July after the two-week period. Toliver has appeared in eight games for Washington this season.
In an official statement, the Mystics provided an update on Toliver's condition, stating that she would receive treatment for her discomfort and be re-evaluated at the end of the two-week period, with further updates to be provided as appropriate.
Shakira Austin Parents
Shakira Austin's journey has been shaped by the unwavering love and support of her devoted guardians, David Austin and Jessica King. Raised under their nurturing guidance, she has blossomed into the remarkable individual we admire today. In addition to her parents' profound influence, Austin is blessed with five siblings, and she proudly holds the position of the eldest among them.
When it comes to matters concerning her family, Austin prefers to keep them shielded from the public eye. Respecting her desire for privacy, she maintains a distance from unwanted controversies and safeguards the sanctity of her personal life. It is evident that she places a high value on her security and cherishes the tranquility it brings. Undoubtedly, her parents take immense pride in her achievements and the remarkable success she has attained at such a young age. Their unwavering support and belief in her abilities have played a pivotal role in shaping her into the remarkable individual she is today.
Shakira Austin Career
During her high school years, Shakira Austin left an indelible mark on the basketball landscape. She earned widespread recognition and accolades for her exceptional skills and talent. In the 2018 recruiting class, Austin was rated as the fourth-ranked player in the nation and the second-ranked forward. Such lofty rankings solidified her status as one of the most promising prospects in the country.
Adding to her impressive high school resume, Austin was selected as a McDonald's High School All-American in 2018. This prestigious honor is reserved for the most outstanding high school basketball players across the nation. Austin's inclusion in this esteemed group showcased her remarkable abilities and potential at such a young age.
Collegiate Success at Maryland
Following her remarkable high school career, Austin committed to the University of Maryland, where she continued to shine on the collegiate stage. In her freshman season with the Maryland Terrapins in 2018-19, she wasted no time making an impact. Austin's shot-blocking prowess was on full display as she set a school record with an impressive 89 blocks. Her defensive presence and ability to protect the rim were crucial contributions to her team's success.
Austin's exceptional performance during her freshman year earned her a well-deserved spot on the All-Big Ten Freshman Team. This recognition further solidified her reputation as a rising star within the collegiate basketball community. Her shot-blocking ability, combined with her all-around skills, showcased her immense potential and garnered attention from fans and scouts alike.
Continuing her stellar play into her sophomore season at Maryland in 2019-20, Austin's consistent performances earned her a spot on the All-Big Ten Second Team. This recognition highlighted her growth and development as a player, cementing her status as one of the conference's top talents. Austin's contributions played a vital role in Maryland's success during her tenure with the program.
Transfer to Ole Miss
After her sophomore season at Maryland, Austin made the decision to transfer to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) for the next chapter of her collegiate career. This move presented an opportunity for her to explore new challenges and showcase her skills in a different environment. Her decision to transfer demonstrated her determination to continue honing her abilities and pursue new avenues for growth.
Gillom Trophy Win
In 2021, Shakira Austin's exceptional talent and contributions were recognized as she was awarded the Gillom Trophy. This prestigious honor is presented annually to the top women's basketball player in the state of Mississippi. The award was a testament to Austin's outstanding performances, leadership, and impact on the court throughout the season. It solidified her status as one of the premier players in college basketball.
WNBA Draft Selection
On April 11, 2022, Shakira Austin's dreams came true as she was drafted third overall by the Washington Mystics in the 2022 WNBA draft. This marked a significant milestone in her basketball career, as she officially transitioned from the collegiate ranks to the professional stage. The draft selection recognized her immense potential, skill set, and the impact she could make in the WNBA.
Dominating in Israel
In September 2022, Austin embarked on an international journey, signing with the Israeli champions Elitzur Ramla. Her arrival in the Israeli league was met with great anticipation and excitement. Austin's exceptional play and leadership immediately made an impact as she guided Elitzur Ramla to a second consecutive championship victory. Her contributions on both ends of the court were instrumental in the team's success, and she was rightfully recognized as the league's best player. Austin's time in Israel showcased her versatility, dominance, and ability to excel on a global stage.
Shakira Austin Injury - FAQs
Shakira Austin appeared to injure her left hamstring during the game against the New York Liberty, which led to her being carried off the court. The exact details of the injury are still unclear.
Following the injury, the Washington Mystics announced that Austin would be unable to continue playing in the game due to a hip injury. However, the duration of her absence and the extent of her recovery period have not been specified at this time.
Teammate Natasha Cloud, who played a pivotal role in the Mystics' 2019 WNBA championship, was among those who helped carry Shakira Austin off the court after her injury.
Shakira Austin has been showcasing her skills and making significant contributions in her second WNBA season. She has been averaging 11.8 points, eight rebounds, one assist, and one block per game, demonstrating her versatility and impact on the court.
Yes, the Washington Mystics are currently dealing with another injury concern. Guard Kristi Toliver is set to miss at least two weeks due to discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. She will be re-evaluated in early July to determine the next steps in her recovery process.