Kayla Thornton’s parents, Lewis and Merteen Thornton, played a significant role in her journey to a professional basketball career.
The Golden State Valkyries’ power forward made a three-pointer with 37.9 seconds left in overtime, beating the Los Angeles Sparks 89-81.
Highlights
- Lewis Thornton served in the U.S. military and was stationed in Germany when Kayla was born.
- Merteen Thornton, a preacher, provided crucial emotional and spiritual support during Kayla’s career struggles, especially when she was cut from the San Antonio Stars in 2016.
- Kayla has two brothers, one of whom serves in the U.S. Army, while the other leads a private family life.
Kayla’s basketball career is proof of resilience and hard work. She played basketball at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) from 2010 to 2014.
She became the all-time leading scorer and led her team to a record 29-win season in 2011-12.
Despite her collegiate success, she was undrafted in the 2014 WNBA Draft and signed with the Washington Mystics for the 2015 season. She only played 10 games.
After a year away from the league, Kayla returned to the WNBA for the 2017 season and signed with the Dallas Wings. She spent six seasons before transferring to the New York Liberty on January 16, 2023.
She played the role of sixth man and became a key player in the Liberty’s back-to-back Finals appearances in 2023 and 2024. They had won the 2024 NBA Finals.
Afterward, the Golden State Valkyries picked her from the New York Liberty’s 2024 roster in the WNBA’s expansion draft on December 6, 2024.
I’m a very vocal person. My main thing is my defense and then obviously my offense comes. I’m just coming and trying to be the best two-way player I can be … It’s been a blessing. When (the trade) happened, I didn’t see it coming…I’m blessed to be in this opportunity. I’m going to take full advantage of it.
Kayla Thornton
Kayla Thornton’s Parents Are The Quiet Pillars Behind Her WNBA Success
Kayla Thornton, the only daughter of Lewis Thornton and Merteen Thornton, was born on October 20, 1992, in Germany. Her parents raised her alongside two brothers.
She credits much of her strength to her parents, though they maintain private lives away from the spotlight.
Lewis and Merteen’s unwavering support and deep faith have played a pivotal role in Kayla’s journey, both on and off the court.
Merteen Thornton is a preacher based in Texas, carrying on a family legacy of ministry. Her mother was an evangelist, and although she had retired, her spiritual influence had shaped Merteen’s path.
During one of the most challenging moments in Kayla’s career, when she was cut from the San Antonio Stars in 2016, Merteen provided crucial encouragement.
My mom said (God) didn’t have a place for me there in Washington when I got cut. It was hard on me at first, but people in my corner were like, ‘God is not done with you yet.’ It hurt, but just being cut lit a fire in me. And ever since then, it’s been lit.
Kayla Thornton
On the other hand, Lewis Thornton served in the U.S. military and was stationed in Germany at the time of Kayla’s birth. He also held a role in the church as a deacon before retiring.
Although Kayla’s parents led a low-key lifestyle, their impact on her athletic journey is evident. They have been steadfast supporters of her career and often attend her games.
Kayla has called their presence a “blessing,” emphasizing how much their encouragement means to her.
Kayla Thornton Shares A Close Bond With Her 2 Siblings
WNBA star Kayla Thornton may be a fierce competitor on the court, but she remains deeply connected to her family.
She hasn’t opened up much about her two brothers but occasionally offers fans a glimpse into their close relationship through social media.
Unlike Kayla, her brothers have taken different paths in life.
One brother serves in the U.S. Army, showcasing the same discipline and dedication that Kayla brings to the game.
Meanwhile, her other brother has chosen a quieter life, focusing on building his own family.
Cherishing moments like this, so proud of my little brother and his newly gorgeous wife.
Kayla Thornton
Despite their different journeys, the Thornton siblings share a strong bond. They make it clear that family remains a priority and spend quality time together.
Kayla keeps much of her personal life private. However, her occasional posts highlight the love and support that unite the Thornton siblings.
They always have each other’s backs, no matter where life takes them.
Additional Information
- Kayla Thornton stands 1.85m tall and weighs about 86kg.
- She is renowned for her defensive play and her ability to guard players in any position.
- During the WNBA offseason, she played in Australia, Egypt, Israel, Italy, Puerto Rico, Russia, and South Korea.
