Seven years after helping launch the WNBA in a new Texas market as a Dallas Wings co-star, Odyssey Sims is back. After playing for five other teams and becoming a mother, Sims has signed her second contract of the season with the Wings. Reflecting on her career, she acknowledges her past shortcomings as a teammate while embracing her current role as a mentor to the team's stars, Arike Ogunbowale and Satou Sabally.
The now 31-year-old Sims is thrilled to be back where her WNBA career began. Drafted second overall in 2014, just a year after Skylar Diggins-Smith, Sims spent her first two seasons playing alongside Diggins-Smith in Dallas. Sims' early career was marked by her time at Baylor University, where she was a three-time All-American and won an NCAA title in 2012.
Following her time in Dallas, Sims played for Los Angeles and then Minnesota. It was in Minnesota, playing with veterans Sylvia Fowles and Seimone Augustus, where Sims says she learned valuable lessons about teamwork. She recalls being called out for her negative communication with teammates, a turning point that she credits with extending her career.
Sims' only All-Star season, 2019, was followed by challenges, including a suspension and a decline in playing time. After recovering from a calf injury, she signed two hardship contracts with Dallas earlier this season. Although the first stint was short-lived, she made a positive impression on Sabally, who praised Sims' grit, experience, and vocal leadership.
Head Coach Latricia Trammell advocated for Sims' return, valuing her leadership and experience. Sims, having overcome postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter, Jaiden, is energized and excited to be playing in front of her family and friends in Dallas.
Sims sees her return to Dallas as a fresh start while acknowledging the cyclical nature of her career. She's focused on contributing to the team's success and hopes to continue playing for years to come.
