Tina Charles signs with Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball

“I’m excited to join Athletes Unlimited and be part of a league that’s changing the game for women’s sports,” Charles said in a statement. “Competing alongside some of the best players while contributing to a player-driven model is something I deeply believe in. I’m ready to bring my passion and experience to AU.”

Charles had a phenomenal collegiate career at the University of Connecticut before entering the WNBA. In 2009 and 2010 she led the Huskies to back-to-back undefeated national championships and graduated from the school as the all-time scoring and rebounding leader.

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Following her senior year, Charles declared for the 2010 WNBA Draft and was drafted first overall by the Sun. During her first year as a pro, she was named 2010 WNBA Rookie of the Year and honored as an All-League Second Team selection.

Charles was traded to the New York Liberty in 2014 and played in her home state until 2020 when she was traded to the Washington Mystics. In 2022, Charles signed with the Phoenix Mercury as a free agent but was waived by the team before signing with the Seattle storm. In 2024, the center signed with the Atlanta Dream on a one-year deal. In 2025, Charles signed with the Connecticut Sun where she thrived all season, averaging 16.3 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.

The UConn alum is the all-time WNBA leader in rebounds as well as field goals made. What’s more, she is the second all-time leading scorer in WNBA history with experience competing in the Olympics. With three Olympic gold medals, nine WNBA All-Star appearances, four All-WNBA First Team selections, and a WNBA MVP in 2012, she’ll bring depth and competition to the new AU Pro season.

“Adding someone of Tina’s caliber to the AU Pro Basketball family is huge for us, and further evidence of the stellar roster of competitors we are building for AU Pro Basketball,” Megan Perry, Vice President of Basketball for Athletes Unlimited said. “She brings championship pedigree, star power, and leadership, and is among the most respected players within the basketball community. We believe her presence will elevate competition, mentor rising players, and give fans yet another reason to be thrilled when the season tips off next February.” 

Charles will be joining a number of WNBA veterans, rookies, and other stand out players in Music City. The roster includes:

A total of forty professional basketball players will play in the 5×5 competition in hopes to come out on top with their team and win the title of individual AU Pro Basketball Champion. The rules are set by the players themselves and there is $500,000 in prize bonuses at stake.

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Last season, Dallas Wings forward Maddy Siegrist sat on the top of the AU Pro leaderboard, making her the 2025 winner. Atlanta Dream guard Allisha Gray won in 2024, NaLyssa Smith won in 2023, and Tianna Hawkins was the winner in 2022.