Dolphins DT says ‘words can’t describe’ how proud he is of sister being 1st-round pick in WNBA draft

Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Brandon Pili isn’t the only member of his family who’s trying to make waves in the professional sports world.

His sister Alissa, who just wrapped up an impressive college basketball career, was selected in the first round of the 2024 WNBA Draft on Monday, drawing a wholesome reaction from the Dolphins defender on social media.

The Minnesota Lynx used the No. 8 overall selection to select Alissa Pili, one pick after the Chicago Sky drafted Louisiana State University star Angel Reese.

Alissa Pili played five seasons at the collegiate level, splitting time between the University of Southern California (three seasons) and University of Utah (two seasons).

She did wonders for her draft stock during her time at Utah. During her two seasons there, she averaged 21.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game while shooting 56.8 percent from the field and 41.1 percent from 3-point range. She was named the Pac-12 Player of the Year in the 2022-23 season.

The Lynx will hope that she eventually enjoys similar success at the WNBA level, even if there are some questions about her ability to hold up on the defensive end. She’s joining the league at a very exciting time, as women’s basketball is on the rise after an electric NCAA season across the nation.

Meanwhile, Brandon Pili will look to take a step forward in the 2024 NFL season after debuting as a rookie in the 2023 campaign. He appeared in four games this past season and finished with two combined tackles. Following his rookie season, the Dolphins signed him to a reserve/future contract.

Miami will look to make some progress in the 2024 season after two straight first-round exits in the playoffs. The squad has had a tumultuous offseason but certainly has enough talent to remain a factor in the AFC East.

It’s clearly an exciting time for the Pili family, and with any luck, both players will enjoy plenty of success in the years to come in their respective leagues. Perhaps Dolphins fans will be able to spot Alissa Pili at a game or two this coming season.