Sun's Tina Charles wins WNBA leadership award

Field Level Media|published: Wed 10th September, 12:02 2025

Sep 3, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Connecticut Sun center Tina Charles (31) looks to shoot against the Chicago Sky during the first half at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Connecticut Sun center Tina Charles is the recipient of the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award.

The award is given to a player for her "extraordinary commitment to service, social justice, and creating lasting impact in the communities she serves," according to a league news release issued Wednesday.

Charles also won the award in 2012. Her Hopey's Heart Foundation will receive a $10,000 donation from the WNBA.

Hopey's Heart will place its 500th automated external defibrillator (AED) into a public facility this year. The foundation honors her late aunt, Maureen "Hopey" Vaz, and has a mission of raising awareness about sudden cardiac arrest.

"In every aspect of her game and character, Tina stands as a representation of the ideals and spirit of the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award," WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said. "Throughout her remarkable career, Tina has consistently used her platform to raise awareness and drive meaningful change. Her dedication to service, advocacy, and giving back to the community reflects the values that define our league. Tina continues to build a legacy that will inspire generations to come."

Charles, 36, has engaged in charitable endeavors that include funding the construction of a school in Mali and also has been an advocate for social and racial justice.

--Field Level Media