Athletes Encyclopedia Entry 1778196555
People

Athletes Encyclopedia Entry 1778196555

Olympia Champion
Sports History Editor
0 views 3 min read May 7, 2026

Athletes Encyclopedia Entry 1778196555

SUMMARY: This article profiles the illustrious career of Ruthie "Riot" Reynolds, a trailblazing American professional basketball player known for her exceptional skills on the court and her tireless advocacy for women's sports.

Overview

Ruthie "Riot" Reynolds is a name synonymous with excellence in women's basketball. Born on August 12, 1992, in Los Angeles, California, Reynolds rose to prominence as a dominant force on the court, earning numerous accolades and breaking records throughout her illustrious career. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall, Reynolds was an unstoppable force, with a unique blend of speed, agility, and shooting prowess that left opponents bewildered.

Reynolds' journey to stardom began at a young age, with her parents encouraging her to participate in various sports to develop her physical and mental abilities. She quickly discovered a passion for basketball, and her natural talent soon earned her a spot on her high school team. As she progressed through the ranks, Reynolds' dedication and hard work paid off, with her being selected for the USA Basketball Women's U16 National Team in 2008.

History/Background

Reynolds' professional career spanned over a decade, during which she played for several top-tier teams, including the Los Angeles Sparks and the New York Liberty. Her impressive performances on the court earned her numerous awards and recognition, including three WNBA All-Star selections and two Olympic medals. Reynolds was also a key figure in the WNBA's efforts to promote women's sports, using her platform to advocate for greater visibility and support for female athletes.

One of the most significant milestones in Reynolds' career was her participation in the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she helped the USA Women's Basketball Team win the gold medal. This achievement cemented her status as one of the greatest players in women's basketball history, and her subsequent induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2020 was a testament to her enduring impact on the sport.

Key Information

- Career Stats: Reynolds played in 245 WNBA games, averaging 18.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.
- Awards and Accolades: Three-time WNBA All-Star, two-time Olympic medalist, and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee.
- Notable Games: Reynolds' most memorable game was the 2016 WNBA Finals, where she scored 32 points to lead the Los Angeles Sparks to a championship victory.
- Personal Life: Reynolds is married to her husband, a former professional football player, and has two children.

Significance

Ruthie "Riot" Reynolds' impact on women's basketball extends far beyond her impressive on-court achievements. As a trailblazer and advocate, she has helped pave the way for future generations of female athletes, inspiring countless young girls and women to pursue their dreams in sports. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of determination, hard work, and perseverance, and her contributions to the sport will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

INFOBOX:
- Name: Ruthie "Riot" Reynolds
- Type: Professional Basketball Player
- Date: August 12, 1992
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Known For: Three-time WNBA All-Star and two-time Olympic medalist

TAGS: Ruthie Reynolds, Women's Basketball, WNBA, Olympic Basketball, Basketball Hall of Fame, Los Angeles Sparks, New York Liberty, USA Basketball.