One of the most storied careers in WNBA history is coming to an end.

Los Angeles Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike revealed she plans to retire at the end of this season in an interview with Boardroom Talks on Wednesday.

An eight-time All-WNBA selection and MVP of the 2016 season while leading the Sparks to the league championship, the 15-year veteran said this is the right time to walk away.

"I just feel like I have poured as much as I could into this game, and the last bit is this year of playing," Ogwumike said. "I'm proud of what I've done."

 

Nneka Ogwumike Announces Retirement from the @WNBA following the 2026 Season.

https://t.co/DAn8u39JIS

— Los Angeles Sparks (@LASparks) August 19, 2026

Ogwumike, 36, is still playing at a high level, averaging 16.9 points and a team-leading 8.7 rebounds and was named to this year's All-Star Game, her 11th selection. She is also a seven-time All-Defensive Team pick, was the 2012 WNBA Rookie of the Year after being drafted No. 1 overall by the Sparks and was named one of the top 25 players in the WNBA's first 25 years.

After spending her first 12 seasons in Los Angeles, Ogwumike played for the Seattle Storm the last two years before returning to the Sparks this season. She is the franchise's all-time leader in scoring, made field goals, steals and double-doubles.

In addition to her exploits on the court, she has served as WNBPA president since 2016.

"Playing in the W for 15 seasons has given me far more than I ever imagined," she said. "I've been challenged as a competitor, shaped as a leader, and exposed to unforgettable people and experiences. I can stand proudly as the player I've become, and even more proud of the woman I am becoming."