Long-distance relationships are tough. But throw in the high-octane lives of two WNBA stars, and you’ve got a reality show waiting to happen. Connecticut Sun forward DiJonai Carrington gave us a front-row seat to her emotional rollercoaster on Friday, publicly sharing how much she misses her girlfriend, Indiana Fever forward NaLyssa Smith.
Carrington took to social media to pour her heart out. “I miss Lyss so much bro. Long distance year-round 😭 mannnn. *sent wit watery eyes 😩,” she tweeted. Yes, even WNBA stars rely on emojis to communicate their deepest emotions. Shakespeare would be proud.
A Baylor Love Story Goes Global
Carrington and Smith’s love story blossomed back at Baylor University and has been slam-dunking hearts since 2022. But in this offseason, their courtship has gone international—literally. While Smith is tearing it up overseas with the Zhejiang Golden Bulls in the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association, Carrington is staying stateside, preparing for the 3×3 Unrivaled league, where she was drafted by Mist Basketball Club.
The long-distance duo are serving fans a mix of heartwarming content and bittersweet updates. In true Carrington fashion, she recently posted a TikTok montage of the pair’s cutest moments, captioning it, “You look happier now.” Fans couldn’t help but swoon—or perhaps wonder how to slide into such an elite love bracket themselves.
Smith’s Instagram Throwback Game Is Strong
Not to be outdone in the sentimental Olympics, Smith shared a throwback snap of her with Carrington and their pet dogs. It was an emotional buzzer-beater, reminding everyone of what a wholesome power couple they are.
Smith has been lighting up the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association while Carrington is preparing to share the 3×3 stage with some of basketball’s biggest names, including Breanna Stewart, Courtney Vandersloot, and Jewell Loyd. While their professional paths are currently miles apart (and oceans, let’s be real), their connection off the court seems unshakable.
Love, Basketball, and TikTok: A Modern Romance
Carrington and Smith made headlines earlier this year when they faced off in the WNBA playoffs. The Connecticut Sun knocked out the Indiana Fever in the first round, but the highlight of the series wasn’t the scoreboard. It was Carrington consoling Smith after the game in what can only be described as a masterclass in sportsmanship—and romance. Who says you can’t mix business and pleasure?
Carrington’s stats this season weren’t just good—they were solid: 12.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Smith wasn’t far behind, averaging 10.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and a block per game. Clearly, both are more than capable of holding their own on and off the court.
When’s the Reality Show Dropping?
If their social media antics are anything to go by, DiJonai and NaLyssa are unofficial ambassadors of wholesome basketball love. Between their dog content, TikTok montages, and mutual admiration posts, these two are living proof that long-distance relationships—while tough—can thrive with a bit of effort, a lot of love, and the right emojis.
For now, fans will have to wait for the day these two stars play on the same court again, whether as teammates or opponents. Until then, their public displays of affection online will have to do. And hey, if basketball doesn’t work out, Netflix is probably ready to offer them a reality show contract.
Because, honestly, who wouldn’t watch Love & Hoops: The Carrington-Smith Story?
