Ayoka Lee, the three-time All-America center for the Kansas State Wildcats, has announced via Instagram that she will forgo a professional basketball career.
The Instagram post cites the challenges of dealing with numerous injuries and the importance of knowing when to listen to your body.
Ayoka Lee announces on her Instagram that she will forego the WNBA Draft and explore life away from basketball.
— Rachel Galligan (@RachGall) April 3, 2025
To a phenomenal human being and an incredible career at @KStateWBB… thank you Ayoka Lee. pic.twitter.com/1sHNKa2uro
Lee, who holds the NCAA Women’s Division I record for points in a single game (61), is the first player in school history—and just the third in Big 12 history—to record 2,000 or more points, 1,000 or more rebounds, and 300 or more blocks, according to K-StateSports.com.
The center from Byron, Minn., was considered a likely top pick in the WNBA Draft prior to her announcement.
Lee stands alone in Kansas State history as the only player to post at least 700 points, 300 rebounds, and 90 blocks in a season. She finishes her career with a program-record 2,533 points, tied for fifth all-time in the Big 12.
According to her K-State bio, Lee earned her undergraduate degree in psychology and graduated in May 2024 with a master's degree in couple and family therapy. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in personal financial planning.
Her teammate, Serena Sundell was recently chosen to attend the WNBA Draft, which will take place on Monday, April 14 in New York City.
The pair led the Wildcats to a 28-8 record on the season, finishing 13-5 in conference play, tied for fourth overall. They were dominant at home with a 17-1 record and advanced to the Sweet Sixteen, where they fell to the USC Trojans, 67-61.