Jewell Loyd: A New Chapter in Las Vegas
Exciting Beginnings
On her first day at the Aces’ headquarters, Jewell Loyd stepped into an atmosphere buzzing with anticipation. Just having been introduced as one of the Aces’ newly acquired talents, she was about to hit the practice courts for the first time. With team president Nikki Fargas and several of head coach Becky Hammon’s assistants present, the energy was palpable. Loyd was preparing for a scrimmage with her older brother, Jarryd, against male practice players, with her father, Calvin, and Klutch Sports agent Jade-Li English cheering her on from the sidelines.
“This is going to be so good,” Fargas remarked, capturing the excitement surrounding Loyd’s fresh start.
A Surreal Transition
Loyd’s transition from the Seattle Storm to the Aces follows a decade-long journey marked by triumphs, including two WNBA championships and two Olympic gold medals. Her request for a trade this offseason, which led to a groundbreaking three-team deal involving former Aces star Kelsey Plum, marked a new chapter in her career. Coach Hammon expressed her belief that Loyd’s untapped potential will flourish in Las Vegas.
“I have so much left in the tank,” Loyd said confidently, indicating her readiness to embrace new challenges and explore different aspects of her game.
From Tennis Courts to Basketball Stardom
Interestingly, Loyd’s path to basketball greatness began on the tennis courts of Lincolnwood, Illinois. Until seventh grade, she focused primarily on tennis and even considered pursuing it professionally before switching her full attention to basketball. Her innate talent quickly became evident, as she began to dominate older players through creativity and practice.
Tony Konsewicz, Loyd’s high school coach at Niles West, recalls his first encounter with her at a junior tournament, immediately predicting her dominance at the varsity level.
A High School Phenomenon
When Loyd entered Niles West, she revitalized a struggling basketball program. Before her arrival, the school hadn’t won a section championship since 1981. In her four years, Loyd led the team to two conference championships, three regional titles, and one section championship. Fans flocked to see her play, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a rock concert.
“Jewell got people excited about girls basketball again,” Konsewicz noted, reflecting on her impact not just on the court, but within the community.
Building Relationships
Despite her stardom, Loyd remains grounded, maintaining a close circle of friends while making everyone feel valued. Laci Swann, a close friend, emphasizes Loyd’s ability to connect with people, often going out of her way to engage with others genuinely.
“She makes time for people. She makes people feel seen,” Swann said, highlighting Loyd’s caring nature off the court.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
While aiming high in her basketball career, Loyd has also ventured into entrepreneurship. She co-founded Loyd and Co., a financial firm aimed at tackling predatory lending practices, alongside her brother. The two also own a Smoothie King franchise and an organic farm while investing in projects aimed at uplifting underprivileged youth in Africa.
This blend of sportsmanship and business acumen is a testament to Loyd’s multifaceted character, driven by a desire for independence and success.
Overcoming Challenges and Perseverance
Throughout her career, Loyd has faced various challenges, yet she continues to rise above them. After experiencing discrimination during her attempts to secure a mortgage, she became even more determined to advocate for change.
“She’ll go out just to prove you wrong,” Konsewicz said, in reference to her unwavering resolve.
Returning to Notre Dame
Returning to Notre Dame for the Aces’ preseason opener, Loyd reflected on her journey and the obstacles she has overcome. A decade earlier, former coach Muffet McGraw had publicly criticized her decision to declare for the WNBA draft a year early. However, Loyd used that skepticism as motivation, earning Rookie of the Year honors and ultimately vindication when McGraw later apologized for her harsh words.
Mamba Mentality
Last season marked a shift for Loyd, who led her team in scoring despite various setbacks, including injuries. As she embarks on this new season with the Aces, her close circle believes she will embody the “Mamba mentality,” which pays homage to her late mentor Kobe Bryant.
Teammate A’ja Wilson reiterated that Loyd’s talent is undeniable and vital to the team’s success. “When she can just play with an open mind, she’s very, very hard to stop,” Wilson noted.
Coach Hammon, recognizing the competitive spark in Loyd, described her as a “silent killer,” capable of surprising competition while possessing an underlying edge.
Finding Her Fit
With a renewed sense of purpose and camaraderie within the Aces organization, Loyd feels she has finally found her “people.” “Everyone wants to be understood,” she remarked, underlining the importance of an environment that allows her to flourish on and off the court.
As the Aces prepare for the upcoming WNBA season, all eyes will be on Jewell Loyd as she embraces not just a new team, but a new version of herself, ready to make her mark in Las Vegas and beyond.