DiJonai Carrington has carved out her place in the WNBA with a mix of grit and athleticism. Now wearing Minnesota Lynx colors, the guard arrives with a reputation built on versatility and defensive intensity.
Her journey from standout college programs to a Most Improved Player nod speaks to a career shaped by persistence. But each stop has also revealed new layers to her game—and her potential is far from capped.
In Minnesota, she steps into a fresh chapter. Her profile is more than stats: it’s a story of growth, resilience, and what it means to find the right fit at the right moment in a player’s career.
How old is Dijonai Carrington?
DiJonai Carrington was born on January 8, 1998, making her 27 years old as of August 2025. She entered the WNBA in 2021, drafted by the Connecticut Sun, and has since established herself as a versatile guard-forward known for her defensive prowess and scoring ability.
DiJonai Carrington #21 of the Connecticut Sun is honored with the “Most Improved Player” award prior to playing the Indiana Fever during Game Two of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs. (Source: Joe Buglewicz/Getty Images)
Her journey through the league reflects a steady progression, highlighted by her selection as the 2024 WNBA Most Improved Player and a spot on the All-Defensive First Team. Her age positions her well within her athletic prime, allowing her to contribute significantly to her team’s success.
How tall is Dijonai Carrington?
Standing at 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters), Dijonai Carrington possesses a combination of height and athleticism that allows her to excel both offensively and defensively. Her stature is particularly advantageous in her role as a guard-forward, enabling her to guard multiple positions.
Her height, coupled with her agility and basketball IQ, makes her a formidable presence on the court. She has demonstrated the ability to impact games through scoring, rebounding, and defense, often serving as a key player in critical moments.
Dijonai Carrington’s love life and family
Dijonai Carrington is in a committed relationship with NaLyssa Smith of the Indiana Fever. Their relationship has garnered attention within the basketball community, highlighting the personal lives of professional athletes.
Family has been a cornerstone of her support system. She is the daughter of Darren Russell Carrington and Vickie Carrington, who have been instrumental in her journey. Their encouragement and guidance have played a significant role in her development both on and off the court.
Balancing a professional career with personal relationships, she exemplifies the challenges and rewards faced by athletes in the public eye. Her ability to maintain strong family connections while pursuing her career aspirations serves as an inspiration to many.
Dijonai Carrington’s injury
During her collegiate career, Dijonai Carrington faced a significant setback due to a knee injury that limited her to just five games in her senior year at Stanford. This injury led to her receiving a medical hardship and subsequently transferring to Baylor University.
DiJonai Carrington #21 of the Dallas Wings drives to the basket during the first half of a game against the Las Vegas Aces at College Park Center on July 27, 2025. (Source: Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
At Baylor, she made a remarkable recovery, earning honors as the Big 12 Newcomer and Sixth Person of the Year. Her resilience and determination to overcome this challenge were pivotal in her development as a player.
Since entering the WNBA, she has remained relatively injury-free, showcasing her physical durability and commitment to maintaining peak performance levels. Her ability to stay healthy has been crucial in her consistent contributions to her teams.
What is Dijonai Carrington’s jersey number?
Dijonai Carrington currently wears jersey number 21 for the Minnesota Lynx. This number has become synonymous with her identity on the court, representing her journey and achievements in the WNBA.
Throughout her career, she has donned the number 21 jersey, a choice that has become a part of her personal brand. The number holds significance for her, symbolizing milestones and the relationships she has built within the basketball community.
As she continues to make her mark with the Lynx, her jersey number remains a testament to her enduring presence and impact in the league. Fans and teammates alike associate the number 21 with her tenacity, skill, and leadership on the court.
Dijonai Carrington’s career highlights
- 2024 WNBA Most Improved Player: Her breakout season saw her elevate every aspect of her game, earning her the prestigious Most Improved Player award. Her scoring, defense, and leadership all took a significant leap, cementing her status as a rising star.
- All-Defensive First Team (2024): Recognized for her tenacious perimeter defense, she was named to the All-Defensive First Team. Her ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses became a key asset for her team’s defensive identity.
- Career-High Averages in 2024: She posted personal bests with 12.7 points, 5 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.56 steals per game during the 2024 campaign, demonstrating her well-rounded impact on both ends of the court.
- WNBA Playoff Experience: She contributed significantly to her team’s deep postseason runs, including the 2022 WNBA Finals and semifinal appearances in 2023 and 2024. Her experience in high-pressure games adds valuable composure to Minnesota Lynx’s roster.
- Consistent Starter: Starting all 39 games she played in 2024, she proved her reliability and durability, becoming a cornerstone in the lineup and a trusted option for her coaches during critical moments.
