Long-distance relationships are hard, but if you’re a WNBA power couple like DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith, you make it work—with love notes, social media shout-outs, and, naturally, a healthy dose of public displays of affection (PDA). The duo, who met during their Baylor University days, are currently separated by a mere 6,500 miles (no big deal, right?). Carrington is stateside gearing up for the upcoming Unrivaled 3×3 league, while Smith is balling out in China’s Women’s Basketball League.
But, hey, what’s a 15-hour time difference when you’re in love, right?
Carrington took to Instagram to share her feelings about the “minor inconvenience” of being on entirely different continents from her girlfriend. She posted a video of a sweet moment between them, featuring some seriously adorable PDA action on the court. In the clip, Carrington—showing off her sporty-glam style in a yellow crop top and skirt—danced with Smith, who kept it casual in shorts and a sweatshirt. Naturally, the moment culminated in a kiss, because love waits for no one, not even basketball.
“We’re used to long distance, ofc, but this time it’s a 15-hour time difference & we’re 6,500 miles apart,” Carrington captioned her IG story. “I miss you lovebug.” And yes, we are collectively melting.
Smith, not to be outdone, posted her own tribute on social media with a throwback pic of the two, captioning it, “Miss’n my old ladyyy.” Apparently, long-distance texts just aren’t enough when your partner is a social media superstar.
Now, in case you’re wondering, the duo’s basketball careers are soaring. Carrington, fresh off winning the WNBA’s Most Improved Player award, is about to make history as part of Unrivaled, a new 3×3 league launching in the U.S. next year. You know, the one that’s paying its players a cushy average of $250,000 plus equity (because, why not?). Meanwhile, Smith, after tearing up the court in Turkey last season, is over in China playing for the Zhejiang Golden Bulls. There’s no word on exactly how much she’s raking in, but let’s just say it’s probably enough to fund a few first-class flights back to the U.S. for some face-to-face time.
So, what’s keeping them together? Apparently, love conquers all—distance, time zones, and busy basketball schedules included. Carrington’s next gig in Unrivaled may keep her closer to home, but it’s clear this couple is mastering the art of long-distance, one Instagram post at a time.
Until then, the rest of us will keep watching their adorable online exchanges, reminding us that even if you’re 6,500 miles away, love will find a way. Preferably with a perfectly-timed PDA.
