Few players in college basketball have showcased the scoring prowess and relentless drive that DeShields demonstrated early on — and this is the part most people miss: her college success set the stage for her WNBA impact, yet her journey is often underestimated.
Diamond DeShields has made notable contributions in the professional sphere, particularly during her brief stint with the Phoenix Mercury in 2022. Despite the team facing a tough season, DeShields delivered commendable performances, averaging 13.1 points, along with 3.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and a steal per game. Her time with the Mercury proved her ability to shine even amidst adversity, highlighting her resilience and skill.
Her professional career kicked off when the Chicago Sky selected her as the third overall pick in the 2018 WNBA Draft — a draft class that also boasted stars like A'ja Wilson, Kelsey Mitchell, and Gabby Williams. This high draft position reflected her tremendous potential and the high expectations placed on her from the start.
But DeShields’s journey to the WNBA was rooted firmly in her stellar college career, where she made quite a name for herself. She initially played at North Carolina, then transferred to the University of Tennessee, both programs renowned for developing top-tier talent. During her freshman year at North Carolina, she averaged an impressive 18.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.
That season was particularly significant because she earned the accolade of ACC Rookie of the Year — a recognition awarded to the league’s most outstanding first-year player. Her most memorable game in college also came that year, when she scored an incredible 38 points against NC State, alongside four rebounds, two steals, and an assist. The Tar Heels triumphed over NC State with a score of 89-82, with DeShields's performance being a highlight. Outside of her, only Allisha Gray scored in double figures for North Carolina in that game, with Gray finishing with 18 points, six rebounds, and a steal.
DeShields continued to impress in her college career with four additional 30-point games — none more notable than her 34-point performance against Georgia. In that game, she also contributed six rebounds, four steals, and three assists. Her teammate Mercedes Russell also had a standout performance, scoring 24 points and grabbing 17 rebounds.
After her 2016-17 season, DeShields took her talents internationally, signing with Çukurova Basketbol in Turkey. There, she averaged 17.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, gaining valuable experience before making her way to the WNBA.
Once in the league, DeShields continued to demonstrate her talent. During Phoenix’s playoff run, she was exceptional, averaging 19.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, two assists, and a steal per game. Although the Mercury were ultimately swept by the Las Vegas Aces — who went on to claim the championship — her contributions were unmistakable. Her presence was a bright spot in a challenging season, and it proved how much potential she has to offer.
The Mercury’s decision to acquire DeShields was undoubtedly a strategic move, as she quickly became one of the most impactful players on the team, especially when they needed her most. Her skill, versatility, and scoring ability continue to make her a key figure in the league.
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