Skylar Diggins is a name synonymous with excellence in women’s basketball. Known for her dynamic playmaking, leadership on the court, and advocacy off it, Diggins has carved out a remarkable career in the WNBA. She was born on August 2, 1990, in South Bend, Indiana. Diggins rose to prominence at the University of Notre Dame, where she became the school’s all-time leading scorer. Her collegiate success led to her being selected third overall in the 2013 WNBA Draft by the Tulsa Shock. The team is now known as the Dallas Wings. Over the years, she has earned multiple All-Star selections. She has also been a key player for teams like the Phoenix Mercury and the Seattle Storm.
Off the court, Diggins has been a trailblazer as well. She became the first female athlete to sign with Roc Nation Sports in 2013 and has endorsement deals with major brands like Nike. Her advocacy extends to issues like maternal health and gender equality in sports. Recently, in a move that garnered media attention, Diggins announced that she would no longer go by the hyphenated last name Diggins-Smith, opting to revert to her maiden name professionally. This led to speculation about the state of their relationship. However, neither Diggins nor Daniel has publicly addressed these changes, leaving the reasons open to interpretation.
Who is Skylar Diggins’ Husband?
Skylar Diggins’ husband is Daniel Smith, and their relationship is a love story that began long before the glitz and glamour of professional sports and media attention. The two first met at the University of Notre Dame, where they were both standout student-athletes—Diggins was dominating on the basketball court, and Daniel was a wide receiver on the Fighting Irish football team. Their connection sparked on campus and blossomed into a committed partnership grounded in shared values, faith, and ambition.
The pair started dating while still in college, and their relationship quickly became serious. Their bond was built on mutual respect and an understanding of each other’s drive for excellence in their respective sports. While Diggins’ collegiate basketball career soared—eventually making her the university’s all-time scoring leader—Daniel was making strides on the football field, earning recognition despite his career being later shortened by injury.
In May 2016, Daniel proposed to Diggins, and the two got engaged, sharing the news with their fans through social media. A year later, in April 2017, they tied the knot in a stunning private ceremony in Chicago, attended by close friends, family, and teammate.
Throughout their relationship, Diggins and Smith have maintained a relatively private personal life. While there have been no public reports of significant drama between the two, Diggins has openly discussed the challenges of balancing her professional career with motherhood. She has credited Smith as a significant part of her support system, especially during times when she faced postpartum depression after the birth of their first child.
Who is Daniel Smith?
Daniel Smith is a former collegiate athlete turned artist and entrepreneur. Born on July 16, 1991, in South Bend, Indiana, Smith played as a wide receiver for the University of Notre Dame’s football team. His athletic career was cut short due to a fractured ankle, which led him to pursue his passion for art. He established Doperman Studios, an art gallery based in Dallas, Texas, where he showcases his artwork and designs logos for various clothing brands. Smith’s transition from sports to art demonstrates his resilience and adaptability, qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to his success in both fields.
What does Skylar Diggins’ Husband do?
After his football career ended prematurely, Daniel Smith channeled his creativity into the arts. He founded Doperman Studios. There, he not only exhibits his artwork but also collaborates with fashion brands to design logos and other visual elements. His work has been well-received, and he has built a reputation as a talented artist and designer. Smith’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his craft have allowed him to carve out a successful career independent of his wife’s athletic achievements.
How many children does Skylar Diggins have?
Skylar Diggins and Daniel Smith are parents to two children. Their first child, a son named Seven, was born in 2019. The couple chose the name for its biblical significance. In early 2023, they welcomed their second child, a daughter, whose name has not been publicly disclosed. Diggins has been open about the challenges of balancing motherhood with a professional basketball career. She has advocated for better support systems for athlete mothers. Her experiences have contributed to broader conversations about maternity leave and childcare support within professional sports leagues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Skylar Diggins average?
As of the latest available statistics, Skylar Diggins has maintained an impressive career average in the WNBA. While specific numbers can vary by season, she has consistently been among the top performers in points and assists per game. For instance, during the 2018 season, she averaged 17.9 points and 6.2 assists per game. Her performance continues to be a testament to her skill and dedication to the sport.
What teams has Skylar Diggins played for?
Skylar Diggins began her WNBA career with the Tulsa Shock, which later became the Dallas Wings. She then played for the Phoenix Mercury before joining the Seattle Storm. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her leadership and on-court performance, earning multiple All-Star selections.
What are some of Skylar Diggins’ off-court endeavors?
Beyond basketball, Diggins is involved in various initiatives. She has appeared in Vogue magazine and participated in a swimsuit shoot for Sports Illustrated. She also hosts “Shoot 4 The Sky” camps around the world for boys and girls in grades 2–12. Additionally, she has served as a guest analyst for the Phoenix Suns’ broadcast team.