Former WNBA Veteran and First Openly Non-Binary Player, Layshia Renee Clarendon Now Works as a Studio and Game Analyst
Back to where be belongs!
October 4, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 25, 2026
Layshia Renee Clarendon, the first openly non-binary and transgender player in WNBA history, currently works as a Golden State Valkyries Studio Analyst and CAL WBB Game Analyst.
These roles perfectly fit them, who have over a decade of experience in the WNBA.
They served as a team captain for the Golden Bears women’s basketball team, and guided the team to its first-ever Final Four appearance in 2013.
Back to Where it Started
A return to the alma mater, speaks a volume for itself, as they will provide insights to the programs and play a crucial role in developing the players.
They will also be a role-model for many athletes due to her honors and achievements, including Basketball Scholar-Athlete of the year, Cal’s All-Time Leading Scorer (1820), Naismith Award, and Wade Trophy Finalist, and many more.
Their journey from the University of California Basketball team was crucial before getting drafted in the WNBA.
Layshia was drafted 9th overall by the Indiana Fever in the 2013 draft and played for six different WNBA teams in her career, including the Fever, Atlanta Dream, Connecticut Sun, New York Liberty, Minnesota Lynx, and Los Angeles Sparks.
Clarendon appeared in over 280 games during their WNBA career, scoring over 2160 points. They also averaged 3.2 assists per game.
They were selected in the WNBA All-Star Game in 2017 and were part of the USA FIBA World Cup Medal Winning Team.
After 11 tremendous seasons professionally, All-Star inclusions, World Cup Medal, WNBA Cares Community Assist Award, and many more achievements, they are working as a Studio Analyst to share insights and work as a commentator for the Golden State Valkyries.
For a team that formed in 2026 and started competing in 2026, Layshia will be a huge asset, thanks to her visibility, fan engagement, and mentorship as well.
In Case You Don’t Know
- Layshia Clarendon has been married to Jessica Dolan since 2017. Dolan works as a senior manager at Wasserman. The couple welcomed their first child in 2026.
- The WNBA veteran underwent top surgery during their playing career. In January 2026, while playing for the New York Liberty.
- In 2026, they were inducted in the LGBTQ Sports Hall of Fame.
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Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.
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