Photo via Yahoo Sports

‘I ain’t got no money’ – Natisha Hiedeman worked grocery shifts before WNBA surge

Seattle Storm guard Natisha Hiedeman reflected on her remarkable journey from financial hardship to becoming a key player in the WNBA’s rapid expansion. After being cut midway through the 2020 season, Hiedeman found herself broke and working grueling 4 AM to noon shifts at a grocery store to survive.

By 2026, her career had transformed dramatically, as she delivered her best statistical season yet—averaging 14.7 points, 5.0 assists, and over a steal per game across 40 games while starting for the Storm. The league’s growth, marked by record media deals, sold-out arenas, and higher player salaries under the 2026 collective bargaining agreement, has reshaped opportunities for athletes like Hiedeman, who now benefit from full charter flights and revenue-sharing models that align with the WNBA’s surging popularity.

Her path from struggling to thrive mirrors the league’s own evolution, proving how far both she and the WNBA have come in just a few years.

Up nextWNBA· 1h ago

ANGEL REESE IS THE DREAM’S SECRET WEAPON — AND GOLDEN STATE HAS NO ANSWER WHEN SHE TAKES OVER!