Dallas Wings forward Bella Alarie will not play the upcoming WNBA season for personal reasons, the team announced Thursday.
“Bella has notified the organization she has decided to forgo the 2022 WNBA season,” Wings president and CEO Greg Bibb said in a statement. “We are supportive of Bella’s decision and look forward to welcoming her back to the team at the appropriate time in the future.”
As a result, Alarie will be placed on the team’s suspended list. The Wings will retain her playing rights upon her return to the league.
The 23-year-old was the fifth overall pick in the 2020 WNBA draft. During the 2021 season, she played 31 games for Dallas, averaging 2.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Dallas Wings for their full support regarding my decision and wish my teammates the very best of luck this summer,” said Alarie. “I will miss my teammates, the fans, the city of Dallas and the game this season, but look forward to this opportunity to rest and recharge.”