Riley Carter

Intro Riley Carter grew up in Oakland, California, a city with a rich basketball history. She discovered basketball at the age of 8, playing pickup games at local parks with boys who were older, taller, and stronger. The experience toughened her up and sharpened her competitive edge. She quickly developed a reputation for her fearless drives and deadly three-point shooting, earning her the nickname “Stellar” from neighborhood players because of her ability to “light it up” from anywhere on the court. Riley was drafted in the second round of the WNBA Draft and played three seasons for the Phoenix Mercury. While she showed flashes of brilliance as a sharpshooter, she struggled to find consistent minutes in a league dominated by established stars. The rigid structures of the WNBA, with its limited roster spots and emphasis on traditional playstyles, made it difficult for Riley to fully showcase her creativity and versatility. During her third season, Riley suffered a minor knee injury that sidelined her for several months. While recovering, she began to question whether the WNBA was the right fit for her. When Riley learned about the Aurora Hoops League, she saw it as a chance to reinvent herself and reignite her passion for the game. The AHL’s emphasis on creativity and inclusion resonated deeply with her, and she was drawn to the idea of being part of something revolutionary. Signing with the Charlotte Solstice marked a fresh start for Riley. The team’s galaxy-inspired identity aligned perfectly with her nickname, “Stellar,” and she saw the Solstice as the perfect platform to shine.