When we talk about veterans in the WNBA, how can we not mention the longest-standing member of the Atlanta Dream before she signed with the Mystics, and the current Sky player, Elizabeth Williams? The Chicago Sky wrapped up their preseason with a solid 2-1 record ahead of the 2025 WNBA season. While there was a lot to like about Tyler Marsh’s team, the veteran leadership of Elizabeth Williams truly stood out.

The 2025 season will mark one decade of WNBA basketball for Elizabeth Williams, and what a journey it has been! She’s played for the Connecticut Sun, Atlanta Dream, Washington Mystics, and now the Chicago Sky. Though her search for the elusive championship continues, one thing is clear: every franchise she’s played for holds her in the highest regard.

Williams picked up basketball at just 9 years old. By the time she was 11, she was already hooked on the rhythm and flow of the game. Even if it meant sending the ball out of bounds during AAU tournaments, she loved every moment. Around that age, she started working with Nadine Domond, now the head coach of Morgan State. By 13, she was dunking effortlessly. All those hours in the gym with Domond paid off. Soon, a life-changing scholarship offer came in from the Tennessee Lady Vols. And just like that, her professional journey was set in motion.

Throughout her journey, her parents were there every step of the way. “I didn’t have to look anywhere else for role models. My role models lived with me, and they taught me all I needed to know through their hard work and dedication to serving others,” she said. This gives us a great chance to learn more about the people who shaped her.

Who are Elizabeth William’s parents?

Born in England to Nigerian parents, Dr. Alex and Margaret Williams, Elizabeth is the middle child, with an older sister, Victoria, and a younger brother, Mark. She grew up in Virginia Beach, which played a role in her decision to join Duke over other powerhouses. “My family is really important to me,” she said. “That’s one of the reasons I chose Duke—it’s pretty close to home. They come with me everywhere, to all my games and stuff. They’re a big deal, very important to me.”

Elizabeth’s dad, Dr. Alex Williams, is a gastroenterologist, running his own practice and seeing patients both in his office and at the hospital. Her mom, Margaret Williams, is a registered nurse who’s worked night shifts in hospitals for over 20 years. It’s undeniable that both had a huge role to do when the world was under the attack of the COVID pandemic.

Elizabeth shared in her Players Tribune column, “My parents have been all about helping people for as long as I can remember, and that didn’t change when I left for college.” Both of them were frontline healthcare workers during the pandemic. While they didn’t directly treat COVID patients, their contributions were just as important.

Where did Dr. Alex and Margaret Williams meet?

It’s well known that both Dr. Alex and Margaret spent their early years in Nigeria. Their eldest daughter, Victoria, was born in 1988, and soon after, the family moved to England. Then in 1996, they made another big move, this time to the United States. But beyond that, not much is known about how the two met. It’s a mystery still waiting to be uncovered. If and when that story comes to light, we’ll be sure to share it!

What ethnicity are Elizabeth William’s parents?

Elizabeth was born in Colchester on June 23, 1993. Not long after, her family moved to the U.S., where she spent most of her childhood. That’s why she’s considered Nigerian-American. Her parents? Both were born and raised in Nigeria. So, of course, they’re of African descent.

What happened between Elizabeth William’s parents?

There’s nothing out there that suggests Elizabeth’s parents have separated. In fact, in her Players’ Tribune column, she spoke warmly about how dedicated they still are–to their work and to their family. There’s been no sign that anything has changed. And if any news ever does surface (which we truly hope won’t be the case), we’ll keep you updated.

Inside Elizabeth William’s Relationship with her Parents

It’s safe to say that the Williams family might just be one of the closest-knit families you’ll ever come across. Back at Duke, Elizabeth knew she could always count on her mom. On random Tuesdays or Wednesdays, her mother would make the 3½-hour drive to Durham–just to catch a game. After the final buzzer, she’d give Elizabeth a big hug. Then, without skipping a beat, she’d drive back early the next morning to make it in time for her hospital shift.

Her dad? Just as dedicated!  He moved heaven and earth to be there for his kids! Whether it was switching shifts with other doctors to make a soccer game, or picking up extra hours to catch a band performance–he made it happen for his family! That’s just who they are. Through all the years, their commitment never wavered. They balanced intense workloads with unconditional love and support for their children.