Dawn Thornton Shares Emotional Tribute to Zaay Green After WNBA Draft Selection
Former University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) head coach Dawn Thornton shared an emotional message in celebration of Zaay Green, her former player, being selected by the Washington Mystics in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Thornton, who played a pivotal role in recruiting Green to UAPB, was instrumental in guiding the standout guard during her collegiate journey. Under Green’s leadership, the program reached new heights, cementing her legacy at the HBCU.
Following the draft, Thornton took to Instagram to post a heartfelt tribute, accompanied by a touching video montage filled with memories of Green’s time at UAPB—highlighting both her triumphs and the trials she overcame along the way.
“Hearing your name called in the WNBA Draft, I broke down. Not just because you made it, but because I know everything you had to push through just to get here,” Thornton wrote. “The injuries, the setbacks, the doubt, the days you wanted to quit—but we didn’t.”
Thornton praised Green not just for her talent, but for her resilience and leadership—qualities that shone through even during the toughest moments.
“I’ve watched you fight battles no one else could see, and still show up with a smile. Still lead. Still believe. Coaching you has been one of the greatest honors of my career.”
The message also highlighted Green’s decision to attend an HBCU, a move that Thornton described as both bold and inspiring.
“You chose me… in a small town… you chose an HBCU, when you could’ve gone to any school in the country. You believed in me—and in return, I gave you your confidence back.”
Thornton concluded her tribute by expressing deep pride in Green’s journey, emphasizing the perseverance, faith, and heart that defined her path to the WNBA.
“You earned this the hard way, and I’m so proud I got to be a small part of your journey.”
Green’s story continues to inspire, and with her next chapter beginning in the WNBA, it’s clear that her legacy at UAPB—and the bond she shares with Coach Thornton—will remain unforgettable.
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