Where women’s hoops are concerned, Elizabeth “Liz” Cambage is the dominant force on the courts, leaving many mouths agape with a huge dose of brilliance on the court and many reports of controversies off the court. Throughout her careers, headlines have been made not just for exquisite performances but also for the drama surrounding her relationships with teams and players, outspoken nature, and high-profile exits from a number of leagues. With that said, here is an in-depth feature on Liz Cambage, a name that remains huge yet very polarizing in the game.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
She was born on August 18, 1991, in London to a Nigerian father and an Australian mother. Cambage moved to Australia when she was little and immediately was exceptional due to her stature at 6’8″. Cambage began her international career with the Australian Opals and continues to be one of the faces in women’s basketball. Indeed, her talent was so great that before long, the eyes of the WNBA-considered by the world to be the best league in the world for ladies skilled at their craft-opened their eyes to her.
WNBA playing career highlighted
Little did that pick start her rollercoaster journey into the league, which then rose to say that she did not want to be in the league and, in return, become a four-time WNBA All-Star and one of the top-rated scorers within the league. Having played for the Dallas Wings, in 2018 Cambage notched a WNBA-record 53 points in one game; the historic performance underlined her capabilities to dominate on the court.
But despite this talent, Cambage’s time in the WNBA was full of ups and downs. In 2022, just a couple of months into the season after signing with the Los Angeles Sparks, her time with the team was cut short when she and the franchise mutually agreed to a “contract divorce.” Cambage stepped away for personal reasons and issues pertaining to player compensation and empowerment.
Controversies and Challenges
While Cambage’s talents on the court were never in question, she often found herself in the midst of controversy. In 2021, Cambage got into a heated incident with the Connecticut Sun coach Curt Miller, who made some comment about her weight during a game. Cambage went on social media to express herself-again-and Miller received a suspension for his comment. That was only one example of the outspokenness that has ingratiated her to some fans and caused others to take a pass.
International Play and Ventures Abroad
Along with the WNBA, Cambage had played a few of the international basketball leagues as well. She had spent a number of seasons playing in China and reportedly received one of the largest salaries any female basketball player has ever seen. Cambage also has played in the Australian Women’s National Basketball League, known as the WNBL, further establishing her status among the most famous athletes in the world. After the WNBA, Cambage did not stay away from the sport. She signed with an Israeli team in 2024 where the new chapter in her professional journey was unfolding.
A Polarizing Figure
Liz Cambage is equally loved and demonized by many. Brilliancy on the court can’t be denied, but the outspoken nature of hers has constantly brought her into conflict with management and teammates alike. To some, she is a stalwart figure who refuses to let up on everything from empowering players to not being afraid of expressive tattoos.
What’s Next for Cambage?
As it is, going into 2024, Cambage’s status in the WNBA no more seems to be clear than it was; the fact that she has opted to sign on with a team in Israel lends just a little credence to the fact that there still remains some love for basketball. Whether she makes her return to the WNBA or keeps her career on foreign ground, we have yet to know from both fans and analysts alike. One thing is for sure: wherever Cambage goes, she headlines.
In conclusion
Liz Cambage’s career has run a mile a minute, it seems- breaking records, courting controversy, and unapologetically herself, at the very least. But, with Cambage blowing through professional basketball at the pace she keeps on, little doubt remains over the legacy left by Cambage of herself as a dominant player and polarizing figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did Liz Cambage retire from the WNBA?
Liz Cambage stepped out of the WNBA in 2022 after coming to a mutual agreement to part ways with the Los Angeles Sparks.
2. Where is Liz Cambage playing now?
In a bid to return to professional basketball after retiring from the WNBA in 2024, Liz Cambage signed a deal with an Israeli outfit.
3. How Much Is Liz Cambage Worth?
While it is hard to come up with the actual figure of Liz Cambage’s net worth, it could run between $1 million and $3 million.
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