Simone Ann-Marie Edwards was born on November 17, 1973 in Kingston, Jamaica. Growing up, she had a natural talent for sports and excelled in both basketball and track and field.
It was during a track meet in Jamaica that Edwards was discovered by an American college basketball coach. She received a scholarship to play basketball at Seminole State College, where she quickly made a name for herself on the court. Her skills and determination caught the attention of many, eventually leading her to play for the University of Iowa.
After a successful college career, Edwards was drafted into the WNBA in 1997 by the New York Liberty. She became the first Jamaican player in the league and quickly became known for her tenacity and skill on the court. Edwards later went on to play for the Seattle Storm, where she made history as the only player to be a part of the team for every game of its first six seasons.
In 2004, she helped lead the Storm to a WNBA championship, solidifying her place as one of the top players in the league. Edwards retired as the all-time leader in minutes played, games played, and rebounds for the Storm.
After retiring from professional basketball, Edwards turned her focus to coaching. In 2007, she was hired as an assistant coach at Radford University, bringing her expertise and passion for the game to the next generation of players. From 2008 to 2011, she served as an assistant coach at George Mason University, helping to develop young talent and instill a love of the game in her players.
Off the court, Edwards enjoys spending time with her family, including her great nephew Azriel Mendez, whom she often posts about on her Instagram account. She is known for her dedication to her community and her desire to give back, often volunteering her time to help young athletes reach their full potential.
Throughout her career, Simone Ann-Marie Edwards broke barriers and set records, paving the way for future generations of Jamaican basketball players. Her passion for the game and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and never give up on their goals.
In August 2022, Edwards posted a photo with fellow basketball player Tina Charles, showcasing the strong bonds and friendships that basketball has brought into her life.