Rivalries don’t just fade—they evolve. In Unrivaled’s high-stakes battleground, where former foes clash once more, the intensity is undeniable. Every matchup is a chance to reignite past tensions, to settle unfinished business. But sometimes, even the fiercest competitors know when to set the game aside. When an unexpected “retirement” announcement shook the court, Marina Mabrey from Phantom BC put the competition on hold—responding with just eight words that proved some moments transcend the scoreboard.

Williams, known for her signature blonde hair for some time now, shocked fans with an Instagram post that read: “My beloved friend @t5poon told me I needed to make an announcement, so here I am. I’ve decided to officially retire the blonde hair 😭 It was a great run, and I’m well aware that makes me a strong 8.5-9 now lol I’m okay with that 🫶🏽 End of an Era man 🙏🏽”

The carousel of photos showcased different times from the Lynx guard’s life with her blonde hair. Interestingly, turns out, The Lynx No. 10 had gone brunette after the WNBA season ended itself. Per her Instagram posts, she has had black hair from January itself. A new look for the new year it seems! But still, as funny as Teresa Weatherspoon is, there is no doubt why she asked Williams to make the announcement. But what is cooler is Mabrey’s reaction to the new look.

Mabrey, who has had her fair share of on-court battles with Williams, couldn’t resist chiming in. She posted a story with Williams’ post where she is smiling with the caption: “The blonde is gone but the smile stays @courtneywilliams10.” It was a lighthearted nod to Williams’ signature look and a rare moment of off-court camaraderie.

Williams, a key player in the Lynx’s 2024 championship run, has embraced the blonde look for years. But back in November, she hinted at change, posting a story with her natural black hair and writing: “Never really seen myself with black hair lol but that blonde done wore me out 😂.”

Whether it’s a new era for Williams or just a fresh look, one thing is clear: some things—like respect between competitors—transcend basketball.

From blonde locks to forever love: Courtney Williams embraces change on and off the Unrivaled court

Williams’ decision to retire her signature blonde hair came during her Unrivaled League games, where she is currently playing for the Lunar Owls in the WNBA’s offseason. Despite the change in look, she hasn’t lost her edge.

In a recent 85-68 victory over Vinyl BC, Williams, playing alongside her Lynx teammate Napheesa Collier, put up an impressive stat line—scoring 10 points in just six minutes, along with three rebounds and three assists.

Though she ditched the blonde in November 2024, that month was far from a quiet one for Williams. She also announced her engagement to real estate agent Shya in a heartfelt Instagram post: “Wowwwww 🥹 it’s a forever thing now 🔒🫶🏽 My fiancé yaaa hearrr meeee.”

She made sure the proposal was as unforgettable as her game-winning moments—blindfolding her girlfriend before leading her into a beautifully staged setup with glowing “WILL YOU MARRY ME” letters and a live saxophonist setting the mood.

The couple, together since 2022, has never shied away from expressing their love. For Williams’ 30th birthday, Shya wrote: “The last two years with you have been amazing… There’s no other person I would choose to do this with.”

Williams’ basketball journey has been just as dynamic. A well-traveled guard, she has played for five WNBA teams before finding her place with the Lynx. Now, as she takes on the Unrivaled League, one thing is certain—whether in basketball or in life, Williams knows how to make game-changing plays.