Crows Club Champion and AFLW Best and Fairest Erin Phillips has today announced her retirement from the WNBA to spend more time with her young family and focus on the next stage of her professional career in sport.   

Co-captain of the Dallas Wings in 2016, Phillips played in the WNBA for nine years, claiming two titles.

Phillips said she had been considering her WNBA future in recent weeks. Primary in her thoughts were the extensive travel commitments of the WNBA, which ensure long periods away from her young family.

The 31-year-old was placed on waivers by the Wings on May 10. This provided other clubs with the opportunity to pick her up should she have wished to play on. 

“Most importantly, this gives me the first opportunity since last October to spend dedicated time with my young family at our home in Dallas,” Phillips said. 

“After nine years, two titles and some great memories playing in the WNBA, I’ve now got the opportunity to start the next stage of my professional career in sport.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time with the Wings and want to thank them for their consideration and the professionalism they have shown throughout the process."

Crows senior coach Bec Goddard congratulated Phillips on a wonderful WNBA career.  

“Erin is a fantastic leader who has made an immense impact across women’s sport, including the WNBA and AFLW,” Goddard said.

“On behalf of the Club, we congratulate her on her successful time with the WNBA and thank the Dallas Wings for supporting her as she followed her dream to play football professionally.

“We’re looking forward to Erin returning to Adelaide in November and the physical break will no doubt benefit her body, allowing her to focus on potential future commitments with the Opals as well as the AFLW.”