The chance to witness second-generation basketball players display their ingrained brilliance is nothing new for the fans. Be it Purdue’s Braden Smith or UConn’s Paige Bueckers, these NCAA stars are classic examples of how basketball genes can play a part in developing an aptitude for the game. Another eminent performer who has made the best out of her basketball DNA is Washington State’s star guard Charlisse Leger-Walker.

The 5′ 10″ guard has been a crucial part of the State Cougars for 4 years. However, she is not the only athlete from her family to showcase her skills on the hardwood.

The elite basketball blood of Charlisse

Being the youngest player to represent the Tall Ferns, the talented No.5 is now the third member after mother Leanne and sister Krystal to make the name Leger-Walker eminent. Leanne Walker was the first to represent New Zealand at senior level. She also took part in the 2000 and 2004 Olympics. In addition to this, she captained the squad in Athens.

Earlier, she also participated in the 1994 World Championship that was held in Australia. She had an illustrious career by being the most capped women’s player and is considered among the all-time greats in the national team’s history. Moreover, she was also a vital part as a pro with the Waikato Titans.

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After hanging her boots as a player, she tried her luck being a coach. First, she led the St Peter’s School, Cambridge to 4 Schick Secondary School Girl’s National Finals. They won the titles three times and finished runners-up once. After this, she became a part of the Waikato Wizards WBC team. Furthermore, she was appointed the Head Coach of the NZ Women’s team and won the gold medal in the FIBA 3×3 Asia Cup in 2018.

While Leanne had a decorated career as a professional player, Charlisse has decided not to enter the WNBA this year.

Charlisse Leger-Walker suspends her WNBA plans

The 22-year-old recently decided to enter herself in the transfer portal this year. She was expected to be among the top draft picks this year. Unfortunately, an ACL tear in Washington State’s 85-82 victory over UCLA in January resulted in a major blow to her professional aspirations. Nonetheless, she has decided to play a fifth and final year and made herself available for the transfer portal. It seems she wants to utilize her remaining year of eligibility and make the most of it before turning pro.

Basketball seems to be a family affair in the Walker household. With three members already accomplishing wonders, fans hope they get to see more. Now, it will be worth noticing which team benefits from her final year in college basketball.