WNBA star Skylar Diggins is no stranger to pressure on the court. But in 2025, the Seattle Storm guard faced one of the toughest challenges of her life far away from basketball — navigating motherhood and personal upheaval largely on her own.
In a candid Instagram post shared over the weekend, Diggins reflected on a year marked by uncertainty, resilience, and growth. Her words were raw, honest, and deeply personal.
“Been doing everything BY MYSELF for over a year now,” she wrote.
“Just me and my babies (and the help of my mom/dad). That’s it!”
The seven-time WNBA All-Star spoke openly about balancing her professional responsibilities with the realities of being a fully present mother. From working and paying bills to making sure her children feel supported and loved, Diggins made it clear that she has been carrying a heavy load — and doing so without a partner beside her.
“Working, paying the bills, being a present mother and battling through a lot of unknowns,” she continued, describing the emotional weight of the year before ending with a powerful declaration: “God’s strongest soldier 2025.”
A Marriage Comes to an End
Diggins married former Notre Dame football player Daniel Smith in April 2017 after the two met as student-athletes at the university. Together, they welcomed two children. However, cracks in the relationship became public earlier this year.
In March 2025, Diggins filed for divorce, citing a separation that reportedly began in November 2024. She first hinted at the split during a press conference when fans noticed she had dropped Smith from her last name — a quiet but telling moment that spoke volumes.
Conflicting Narratives
Smith has also taken to social media to share his side of the story. In a recent Instagram post, he stated that he has been seeking custody since April 2025 and expressed frustration over being separated from his children.
“Separation from my babies has never been okay with me,” Smith wrote, adding that he wished the situation had been handled months earlier. Despite the ongoing legal battle, he emphasized his desire to remain present in his children’s lives.
Strength Beyond the Game
For Diggins, the past year has been about survival, self-belief, and showing up every day — not just as an elite athlete, but as a mother first. Her message resonated with many fans, especially women who see their own struggles reflected in her honesty.
P
oiuWhile the divorce proceedings remain ongoing, Diggins’ words made one thing clear: regardless of the outcome, she has already proven her strength.
On and off the court, Skylar Diggins continues to redefine what resilience looks like — one day, one game, and one moment at a time.
