84-year-old Shirley Simson, a retired nurse and grandmother, aims to make it to the WNBA, working out at the Las Vegas Aces' facility and sharing her journey on social media with the support of her grandchildren, attracting millions of views and the attention of the league.

By the Numbers
  • The series debut received nearly 2 million views on TikTok.
  • Three other videos have gotten more than a million views on TikTok, and three on Instagram have crossed the 500,000-view plateau.
  • Simson's vertical jump is 0.67 inches, and she completes a three-cone drill in just over six seconds.
State of Play
  • Simson's journey has garnered the attention of the WNBA, with comments from the Connecticut Sun and engagement from the league's official account, as well as Liberty star Breanna Stewart sharing one of Simson's videos.
  • During a visit to the Aces' facility, they were turned away without an appointment, but the grandchildren hope this project will lead to more opportunities for Simson.
What's Next

Simson's family hopes her project will lead to opportunities such as an invite to a WNBA All-Star Game or a ceremonial role at the draft.

Bottom Line

Shirley Simson, an 84-year-old grandmother, is challenging age stereotypes and inspiring others by pursuing her dream of making it to the WNBA, showcasing the power of determination and breaking barriers.