Travel Challenges for WNBA Players
Navigating a day in the life of a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) player can reveal a stark reality beyond the court – the logistical challenges these athletes face while travelling. More than just an inconvenience, these road trips could affect their performance and health. The story of the New York Liberty team’s recent cross-country journey, witnessed firsthand by The Associated Press, demonstrates these challenges.
The Journey Begins
The travel saga began as early as 6:30 a.m., with players dragging their luggage down to the hotel lobby in Connecticut. Despite the team not flying economy, the limited space in the airplane cabin still posed challenges, especially for taller players. A 2,700-mile flight to Las Vegas, involving a layover in Atlanta, awaited them.
Travel Perks and Limitations
Despite the arduous journey, there are some perks for WNBA players. Efficient baggage handling, expedited security checks, and upgraded seats are among them. Yet these benefits are not universal, especially for foreign-born players, who often navigate regular security lines.
The Wear and Tear of Travel
Long hours of travel take a toll on the players. The physical strain of being confined in tight spaces is a genuine concern. The Liberty team’s recent 13-hour day stands testament to this. The back-to-back games in different cities only amplify the wear and tear on players’ bodies, raising calls for alternative travel arrangements, such as charter flights.
The Call for Charter Flights
The league has recently relaxed its restrictions on charter flights, allowing teams with back-to-back games to use them. Yet this option comes with a hefty price tag. Despite the financial strain, the importance of player comfort during travel has become a growing concern.
The Road Ahead
WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart, who faced the uncomfortable journey, believes more needs to be done. She emphasizes the significance of comfortable travel for player health, arguing it’s as crucial as their rigorous training. “We want to continue to be our best, and realizing that all the prehab and rehab and lifting and stuff we do for our bodies is just as equally important as the way we travel and the ability to stretch our legs,” she says.
The Liberty’s recent journey provides a glimpse into the WNBA players’ sky-high struggles and underscores the importance of making travel arrangements that prioritize the athletes’ health and performance. With the health and safety of players at risk, the calls for comfortable travel arrangements have never been louder.