Hamilton basketball star Kia Nurse aims to rebound with Athletes Unlimited after `rocky’ 2 years
Kia Nurse’s basketball journey took a drastic turn when she suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament during the 2021 WNBA playoffs. The injury forced her to miss the entire 2022 season, but she made a comeback by signing with the Seattle Storm for the 2023 campaign before being traded to the Los Angeles Sparks.
Despite representing Canada at the Paris Olympics, Nurse struggled as the team failed to advance to the knockout round. She admitted that the past two years had been challenging for her, as she struggled to find her rhythm on the court.
Looking to reignite her passion for the game, Nurse decided to join Athletes Unlimited for their upcoming basketball season in Nashville. The league features a unique scoring system that rewards both team successes and individual achievements, providing an opportunity for players to showcase their skills in a competitive environment.
Nurse expressed her desire to rediscover her love for basketball and improve her performance on the court. She acknowledged that the past few years had been tough, but she was determined to bounce back stronger than ever.
The decision to join Athletes Unlimited was a strategic one for Nurse, who wanted to focus on her development and regain her confidence on the court. The league’s format and schedule aligned with her goals, allowing her to fine-tune her skills before the start of the 2025 WNBA season.
In preparation for her new venture, Nurse relocated her training base to Hamilton, where she could stay close to home and avoid long commutes. She also expressed her desire to join a winning franchise in the WNBA, aiming to make a deep playoff run and contribute as a key player.
Nurse’s commitment to improving her game was evident as she reflected on her performance at the Olympics and discussed strategies with fellow WNBA veteran Bridget Carleton. The duo aimed to lead Canada Basketball to success in the upcoming years by fostering a strong team culture and understanding each player’s role.
As Nurse embarks on a new chapter in her basketball career, she remains focused on her goals and determined to make a positive impact both on and off the court. With her sights set on success, she is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
