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Lisa Leslie Bio: Net worth, Height, Age, Stats, Salary and More

15 min
Lisa Leslie Biography
Table of content

A retired professional basketball player, Lisa Leslie ranks among the top WNBA players in history. With four Olympic gold medals, three WNBA MVP awards, and two WNBA titles to her name she has shown par excellence in scoring, rebounding, and leadership and has set foot to earning the name of a legendary WNBA player.

In her bag of achievements, Leslie achieved the honor of becoming the first athlete to perform a dunk in WNBA game history. At the Morningside High School, she dropped a whooping 101 points in a single half and then attended the University of Southern California, where she earned the title of 1991 Freshman of the Year and the 1994 Naismith National Player of the Year.

She was drafted by the Los Angeles Sparks in 1997 and Leslie’s WNBA career included eight All-WNBA First Team selections, three MVPs (2001, 2004, 2006) and the league's first-ever dunk in 2002. Internationally, she secured four Olympic golds (1996–2008) and two FIBA World Championship titles.

After retirement, she transitioned into broadcasting, has been writing books, co-owns the Sparks, founded a basketball academy and continues to influence the game across media, a business and youth development.

The former Los Angeles Sparks player is also the head coach for the Triplets in the BIG3 professional basketball league. Additionally, she is also a studio analyst for Orlando Magic broadcasts on FanDuel Sports Network Florida.

Lisa Leslie's Personal Information

Lisa Leslie's personal information includes her being born on July 7, 1972, in Compton, California. The WNBA center player stands at 6’5″ and represents the professional basketball league. Let's dive into the biography of the first woman dunker. In an interview with newbeauty, when asked about beauty and wellness inspirations, she mentioned,

Opening Quote

“I would probably have to start with my mom and even my grandmother. Even though it’s so old school, I just remember my grandma with her Pond’s moisturizer. Watching my mom move through different brands and products really inspired me. I actually started in high school, where I began to pay attention to the importance of moisturizing. 

I still think about her now and how beautiful her skin was. She aged gracefully, and that has always inspired me to take care of my skin and the importance of moisturizing.“

Closing Quote

The following table dwells into her personal information.

Player InformationDetails
Full NameLisa Deshaun Leslie
Age52
DOBJuly 7, 1972
NationalityAmerican
Mother NameChristine Lauren Leslie
Father NameWalter Leslie
PositionCenter
Net Worth$5 million
Height6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
Weight170 lb (77 kg)
EducationMorningside High School
HusbandMichael Lockwood
TeamLos Angeles Sparks
Experience12 Years
Lisa Leslie's Personal Information

Lisa Leslie's Personal Life

Lisa Leslie
Image Credit: Lisa Leslie's Instagram account

In 2005, she married Michael Lockwood, while Leslie maintains her roles as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and TV personality, she balances home life with it in an equally graceful way. With a focus on supporting women and children through her charitable activities, she maintains influence in the media sector as a sports analyst and commentator. Through her Lisa Leslie Basketball & Leadership Academy, Leslie mentors young athletes while also establishing bases in entertainment and business. Lisa is also quite active on her social media platforms with her Instagram having 1881 posts, 330K followers. The platform features her daily life antics and professional milestones combined with family updates.

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Lisa Leslie's Early Life

Born on July 7, 1972, Leslie was raised in Compton, California, by parents Christine Lauren Leslie and Walter Leslie. Lisa Leslie's height is 6'5" and gets it from her family who were passionate about basketball, as her mother towered over everyone with 6 feet 3 inches, and her father played basketball professionally. To provide for her children, Christine established her truck-driving enterprise, while Walter passed away. By age 12, she already stood over 6′0″, often teased for her height and encouraged by her mother to embrace it with confidence.

Though initially reluctant, a friend convinced her to join the middle-school basketball team, and she quickly excelled—training relentlessly with male peers and developing an ambidextrous game to avoid being singled out. In eighth grade, she joined a boys’ team and gained early attention; by high school she received over 100 college recruiting letters before enrolling at Morningside High School in Inglewood in 1986. There, she started every varsity game, competed in volleyball and track, dunked as a sophomore, and by her senior year earned state championships.

Lisa Leslie's Parents

Lisa Leslie with her mom

She is the daughter of Christine Lauren Leslie and Walter Leslie. Her mother, Christine Lauren Leslie, with her trucking business, created financial stability to support her three children. Walter Leslie, her father, was a former basketball player. The family experienced separation after Walter abandoned them when Lisa’s mother was already four months pregnant. Lisa Leslie was brought up with her two sisters, Dionne, who is five years older, and Tiffany, who is eight years younger, and her brother Elgin.

Lisa Leslie's Husband

Lisa Leslie Husband
Image Credit:  Lisa Leslie @lisaleslie Official Instagram

Lisa Leslie's husband, Michael Lockwood earned his basketball experience at the United States Air Force Academy before becoming a UPS pilot. They got married on November 5, 2005. They welcomed their first child, Lauren in 2007 during her one-year absence from pro basketball. Leslie reappeared in the WNBA during the 2008 season. Leslie gave birth to her second child, Michael Jr. in 2010.

Lisa Leslie's Kids

Lisa Leslie
Image Credit: Lisa Leslie's Official Instagram Account

The all rounder WNBA player is a proud mother of two children- Lauren Jolie Lockwood and Michael Joseph Lockwood II. Their daughter was born in 2007, recently attended her senior prom, marking a big milestone as she gets ready to graduate from high school. Their son was born in 2010, has already shown his interest in sports, even working as a kid reporter for the BIG3 basketball league. Lisa Leslie's kids are often seen on her social media, reflecting how she balances motherhood and her legacy in basketball.

Lisa Leslie's Net Worth

The WNBA star became instrumental in women’s basketball while breaking many important records in the sport. Lisa Leslie's net worth reached $5 million in 2024 but the upper limit seems to around $8M, according to Celebrity Net Worth, during her career playing basketball and her roles as a coach and sports broadcaster. She, along with former teammate Diana Taurasi, is also considered one of the 10 richest WNBA players. Net worth can be calculated with more than just salary; endorsements, investments, contracts, and more come into play. Hence, we have curated a list of all Lisa Leslie's endorsement deals.

BasisEstimated Net Worth
WNBA salary + endorsements + media & real estate$7 million
Career earnings, endorsements, broadcasting, real estate$5 million
Includes business ventures (real estate, ownership)$8 million

Lisa Leslie's Contract

Lisa Leslie with Team
Image Credit: Lisa Leslie's official Instagram Account

In 2001, Leslie signed a four-year supermax deal with the LA Sparks—earning the league maximum salary, which at the time was $85,000 per season. By 2006, under continued maximum raises, her salary increased to the updated max of $91,000 .

Earlier, in 2000, her compensation was approximately $72,188 during her sophomore yearShe also signed quite a few contracts with the LA Sparks during her incredible run.

She received a four-year contract in 2001, reportedly of around $85,000 a year. Details of her subsequent contracts are primarily under lock and key, but as one of the best in the league, we can say she was earning a lot.

Apart from match day, the memo and other projects really paid off, bringing an estimated net worth of around $5 million.

SeasonTeamContract Type
1997Los Angeles SparksInaugural season; standard contract
1998Los Angeles SparksSlight raise
1999Los Angeles SparksIncremental increase
2000Los Angeles SparksNear top salary tier
2001Los Angeles SparksStart of 4-year supermax deal (max pay)
2002Los Angeles SparksContinued supermax contract
2003Los Angeles SparksContinued supermax contract
2004Los Angeles SparksContinued supermax contract
2005Los Angeles SparksFinal year under initial supermax deal
2006Los Angeles SparksUpdated league maximum salary
2007Did not playMaternity leave
2008Los Angeles SparksReturned at max salary
2009Los Angeles SparksFinal WNBA season
Lisa Leslie's Contract

Lisa Leslie's Salary

According to the LA Times, Lisa Leslie's salary was the maximum salary the WNBA offered, i.e., $91,000, in 2006. It was also reported that Leslie signed a 4 year deal with the Sparks at the league maximum of $85,000 per season, this was according to a 2002 report. Her reported WNBA salary from the LA Sparks was $72,188 in 2000.

SeasonTeamSalary (USD)Notes
1997Los Angeles Sparks$50,000Inaugural season standard contract
1998Los Angeles Sparks$52,500Incremental increase
1999Los Angeles Sparks$55,000Slight raise
2000Los Angeles Sparks$72,188Approaching top-tier salary
2001Los Angeles Sparks$85,000Start of 4-year supermax contract (max)
2002Los Angeles Sparks$85,000Supermax continuation
2003Los Angeles Sparks$85,000Supermax continuation
2004Los Angeles Sparks$85,000Supermax continuation
2005Los Angeles Sparks$85,000Final year of supermax deal
2006Los Angeles Sparks$91,000New CBA max salary
2007N/ADid not play (maternity leave)
2008Los Angeles Sparks$91,000Returned at league maximum
2009Los Angeles Sparks$91,000Final WNBA season

Lisa Leslie's Endorsements

Lisa Leslie’s endorsement deals include collaboration with brands such as DraftKings Sportsbook and Nintendo. Some of Lisa Leslie's endorsements are:

Dr. Scholl's: The footwear company, recognizing Lisa's strong public image and connection with consumers, has extended its endorsement deal with her for multiple years.
Sears Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign: Lisa became a spokesperson for this campaign in her platform as a support in important social causes.

Nike: While there are less prominent details for specific long-term collaboration, her involvement suggests a recognition of her status in the world of basketball.

Fleer SkyBox Trading Cards: Lisa's image was featured on trading cards, a classic way for connecting fans.

Video Games: Leslie collaborated with NBA star Kevin Garnett, showed their likenesses to a new video game, demonstrating her crossover appeal to sports fans.

Aston Rose: Lisa co-founded this luxury real estate firm, showcasing her sharp business sense.

LootMogul: Lisa invested in and became a brand ambassador for the company, aiming to connect fans and athletes.

Allegra: She partnered with this allergy medication brand in 2013 to encourage outdoor activities.

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Lisa Leslie Career

Lisa Leslie Career Explained
Image Credit: Lisa Leslie's official Instagram account

Leslie played for the Sparks for her whole WNBA career, where she received all three honors as MVP from the All-Star Game and regular season, and playoffs during 2001, which marked her achievement as the first WNBA player to do so in one season. She became the WNBA Championship MVP in 2002 after earning the title of all-time leading scorer for the league. According to WNBA data, let's have a quick look at Lisa Leslie's stats along with the various records set by her.

Lisa Leslie High School Career

Before the WNBA limelight, she was a sensation at Morningside High School where she led her team to a state championship and earned the national player of the year award. She dominated the court, scoring an amazing 27.3 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 blocks per game in her senior year. Her incredible skill and energy were evident early on, setting the stage for her future stardom.

YearClass/GradeStats/AchievementsNotes
1986–87FreshmanStarted every varsity game; named California Freshman of the Year Joined Girls' varsity team as a freshman
1987–88SophomoreTeam captain; led Monarchs to California state championshipDominated scoring & rebounding
1988–89JuniorAveraged 21.7 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 6.2 BPG; named USA Today First‑Team HS All‑AmericanEstablished national reputation
1989–90SeniorAveraged 27 PPG, 15 RPG, set state record with 101 points in half (game ended early)Also led team to second state title
1989–90Senior AwardsNamed Naismith National HS Player of the Year and awarded the Dial AwardRecognized as nation’s top female high school player
Lisa Leslie's High School Career Stats

Lisa Leslie College Career

After her incredible achievements during her high school time, college recruiters were lining up, and it was clear that Lisa Leslie was a special talent destined for a greatness in the world of basketball. Lisa Leslie's college, the University of Southern California (USC) from 1990 to 1994, gave her an opportunity to improve significantly at her game. She dominated the court, leading the Women of Troy and four consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.

SeasonGPPPGFG%RPGBPGFT%
1990–913019.447.8%10.02.667.6%
1991–923120.455.0%8.41.769.7%
1992–932918.755.8%9.83.373.5%
1993–943021.955.8%12.33.168.7%
Career12020.153.4%10.12.769.8%
Lisa Leslie's Stats

Lisa Leslie Professional Career

Her career started in 1997 when she was selected as the seventh pick in the inaugural WNBA draft. She spent her entire career with the Los Angeles Sparks until her retirement in 2009. Lisa Leslie retired from her WNBA career with 6,263 points and 3,307 rebounds over 363 games.

SeasonTeamGPGSMPGPPGRPGAPGSPGBPGFG%FT%
1997L.A.282832.215.99.52.61.42.1.431.598
1998L.A.282832.119.610.22.51.52.1.478.768
1999L.A.323229.115.67.81.81.11.5.468.731
2000L.A.323232.117.89.61.91.02.3.458.824
2001L.A.313133.319.59.62.41.12.3.473.736
2002L.A.313134.216.910.42.71.52.9.466.727
2003L.A.232334.418.410.02.01.32.7.442.617
2004L.A.343433.817.69.92.61.52.9.494.712
2005L.A.343432.215.27.32.62.02.1.440.586
2006L.A.343430.720.09.53.21.51.7.511.650
2008L.A.333332.115.18.92.41.52.9.463.661
2009L.A.232127.715.46.62.10.71.4.518.722
Career36336132.017.39.12.41.42.3.470.695
Lisa Leslie's Professional Career Stats

Lisa Leslie Achievements

She received seven All-Star nominations while being awarded All-Star Game MVP three times as well as becoming the WNBA MVP thrice, accumulating eight first-team All-WNBA selections, and winning the Defensive Player of the Year award twice. Furthermore, Leslie truly created history on July 30, 2002, at Staples Center, Los Angeles, when she became the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game. Her feat was achieved during the Los Angeles Sparks vs Miami Sol game. Lisa Leslie has one signature shoe, the Nike Total Air 9, released in 1998. Lisa Leslie's shoe featured a quilted black leather upper and silver detailing inspired by her love for Chanel bags and jewelry. Additionally, in 2022, Nike released a special edition Dunk Low in her honor, celebrating the 20th anniversary of her becoming the first woman to dunk in the WNBA.

AwardTimes Won / Year
WNBA Champion2× (2001, 2002)
WNBA Most Valuable Player (MVP)3× (2001, 2004, 2006)
WNBA Finals MVP2× (2001, 2002)
WNBA All-Star8× (1999–2003, 2005, 2006, 2009)
WNBA All-Star Game MVP3× (1999, 2001, 2002)
All-WNBA First Team8× (1997, 2000–2004, 2006, 2008)
All-WNBA Second Team4× (1998, 1999, 2005, 2009)
WNBA Defensive Player of the Year2× (2004, 2008)
WNBA All-Defensive First Team5× (2005–2008)
WNBA All-Decade Team2006
WNBA 15th, 20th, and 25th Anniversary Teams2011, 2016, 2021
First Woman to Dunk in a WNBA Game2002
WNBA Career Scoring MilestoneFirst to reach 6,000 points
Jersey Retired (#9, LA Sparks)2010
Lisa Leslie's Awards and Achievements
CompetitionMedal / Achievement
Olympic Games4× Gold Medalist (1996, 2000, 2004, 2008)
FIBA World Championship2× Gold (1998, 2002), 1× Bronze (1994)
USA Basketball Female Athlete of the Year1998, 2002
Lisa Leslie's International Achievements

Lisa Leslie's Jersey Number

Lisa Leslie
Image Credit: Lisa Leslie's official Instagram account

Lisa Leslie's jersey number is number 9. The LA Sparks player's jersey is iconic in WNBA history. As one of the league’s most influential players, Leslie’s contributions to the game led the Los Angeles Sparks to two WNBA championships in 2001 and 2002. Her dominant presence on the court, both offensively and defensively, helped shape the league’s growth. In recognition of her impact, the Sparks retired Lisa Leslie’s jersey number 9 in 2009, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest players in WNBA history.

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FAQs

Where is Lisa Leslie from?

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Lisa Leslie is from Gardena, California.
Who are the parents of Lisa Leslie?
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Lisa Leslie's parents are Christine Lauren Leslie and Walter Leslie.
Which school did Lisa Leslie attend?
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Lisa Leslie attended Morningside High School
What position does Lisa Leslie play?
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Lisa Leslie played the Center position.
How many MVPs did Lisa Leslie win?
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Lisa Leslie won three MVP awards in 2001, 2004, and 2006.
How tall is Lisa Leslie?
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Lisa Leslie is 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m) tall.

How many children does Lisa Leslie have?

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Lisa Leslie has two children.

Does Lisa Leslie have a spouse?

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Yes, Lisa Leslie is married to Michael Lockwood.

Who was the first woman to dunk in the WNBA?

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Lisa Leslie

How many WNBA rings does Lisa Leslie have?

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Two, 2001 and 2002.

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Edited by- ritik taneja
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