Monique Billings, born on May 2, 1996, in Riverside, California, is an American professional basketball player known for her dynamic presence in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
Currently playing as a forward for the Golden State Valkyries, Billings has made significant strides in her athletic career since being drafted in 2018.
Raised by her parents, Chuck and Jane Billings, Monique grew up in a supportive family environment that fostered her passion for sports.
A standout athlete from her high school days at Santiago High School in Corona, California, she went on to excel at UCLA before embarking on a successful professional career.
Siblings
Monique has one sibling, a sister named Andrea Billings.
While Monique has gained public recognition for her basketball prowess, Andrea has largely remained out of the spotlight, and little information is available about her personal or professional life.
The sisters share a strong bond, rooted in their family’s close-knit dynamic.
Growing up together in Riverside, California, Monique and Andrea were raised in a household that valued faith, family, and perseverance—values that have clearly influenced Monique’s approach to her career and life.
Career
Billings’ basketball career began to take shape during her high school years at Santiago High School, where she was a four-year letterman and a highly ranked recruit.
Her talent earned her an invitation to the United States National Team Under-18 trials in 2014.
At UCLA, Billings made an immediate impact, earning a spot on the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team in her first year.
Over her four-year collegiate career, she started in nearly every game, leading the Bruins to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including an Elite Eight run in her senior year.
She graduated with impressive stats, ranking second in UCLA history for rebounds (1,159) and ninth in scoring (1,761).
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In 2018, Billings was selected 15th overall in the second round of the WNBA Draft by the Atlanta Dream, marking the start of her professional career.
She spent six seasons with the Dream, establishing herself as a reliable forward with a knack for rebounding and defensive play.
Throughout her WNBA tenure, she has also played for the Dallas Wings and Phoenix Mercury, showcasing her versatility and resilience.
In 2024, she joined the Golden State Valkyries via the WNBA expansion draft.
Beyond the WNBA, Billings has competed internationally, playing for teams like the Asan Woori Bank Wibee in South Korea and the Guangdong Vermilion Birds in the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association (WCBA).
Her career highlights include a 30-point, 13-rebound performance in 2020, demonstrating her ability to dominate on both ends of the court.
Off the court, Billings has expanded her influence as a sportscaster, global keynote speaker, and author of “Finding Balance: A Playbook for Wellness,” a book that reflects her commitment to personal growth and well-being.
Accolades
Billings has earned numerous accolades throughout her basketball career, reflecting her skill and dedication.
During her time at UCLA, she was named to the Pac-12 All-Freshman Team in her first year and received Honorable Mention All-Pac-12 honors as a sophomore.
Her junior year saw her earn a spot on the All-Pac-12 Team, and in her senior year, she led the Pac-12 in rebounds, double-doubles, and offensive rebounds, cementing her status as one of the conference’s top players.
She also represented Team USA at the U24 Four Nations Tournament in 2017, contributing to the team’s championship win.
In the WNBA, Billings has continued to build her legacy. She reached the 1,000-point mark in her career during the 2016-17 season and has consistently ranked among the league’s top rebounders.
Her career averages as of the 2024 season include 6.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 44.1%.
Notable performances include her career-high 30 points against the Dallas Wings in 2020 and a career-high 16 rebounds against the Los Angeles Sparks in 2019.
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