Introduction
Breanna Stewart, a renowned professional basketball player for the New York Liberty in the WNBA, has been the subject of various rumors throughout her career. One such rumor suggests that she is deaf or hearing impaired. This article examines the truth behind these claims, provides verified information about her hearing status, and highlights her impressive career and advocacy work.
The Rumor: Is Breanna Stewart Deaf?
There have been widespread rumors suggesting that Breanna Stewart is deaf or hearing impaired. However, these claims are entirely baseless and lack any credible evidence. Multiple sources have confirmed that there are no indications whatsoever that Stewart has any hearing impairments 710.
Lack of Official Reports
No official reports or statements from Stewart herself, her team, or reputable news outlets support the claim that she is deaf. In fact, upon thorough research, no logical explanation has been found for the circulation of these rumors 710.
Public Appearances and Interviews
Stewart has frequently appeared in interviews and on social media, and there has never been any indication that she requires a hearing aid or sign language. She consistently responds promptly and appropriately to questions, showing no signs of struggling to hear or understand interviewers 10.
Breanna Stewart’s Basketball Career
Breanna Stewart is one of the most accomplished players in women’s basketball history. Here are some key highlights from her career:
Achievements and Awards
- 2× WNBA Most Valuable Player (2018, 2023)
- 3× WNBA Champion (2018, 2020, 2024)
- 2× WNBA Finals MVP (2018, 2020)
- 7× WNBA All-Star (2017, 2018, 2021–2025)
- 6× All-WNBA First Team (2018, 2020–2024)
- WNBA Rookie of the Year (2016)
- 2× Olympic Gold Medalist (2016, 2020) 1213
Recent Performance
In the 2025 season, Stewart averaged 18.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game while maintaining a 46.9% field goal percentage 39. However, she has been sidelined recently due to a bone bruise in her right knee but aims to return before her 31st birthday on August 27, 2025 2.
Personal Life and Advocacy
LGBTQ+ Activism
Stewart is openly gay and an active member of the LGBTQ+ community. She is engaged to former WNBA player Marta Xargay Casademont, and the couple has a daughter named Ruby Mae Stewart Xargay, born via surrogate in August 2021 7.
Advocacy Against Sexual Abuse
In a courageous 2017 essay published in The Players’ Tribune, Stewart revealed that she is a survivor of sexual abuse that occurred when she was between the ages of 9 and 11. The perpetrator, who was married to her maternal aunt, confessed to the abuse and served prison time. Stewart has since become a vocal advocate for survivors of sexual abuse and a prominent figure in the #MeToo movement 1013.
Other Contributions and Initiatives
Unrivaled Basketball League
Stewart is the co-founder of the Unrivaled basketball league, along with Napheesa Collier. The league aims to provide a sustainable and entertaining platform for women’s professional basketball, keeping the sport relevant year-round 813.
Advocacy for WNBA Players
As a Vice President of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association, Stewart is actively involved in negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for WNBA players. She advocates for better pay, improved working conditions, and smarter scheduling to reduce player fatigue and injuries 8.
The Danger of Baseless Rumors
The rumors about Stewart’s hearing status highlight a broader issue of misinformation affecting public figures. Such claims can distract from their actual achievements and contributions. In Stewart’s case, these rumors have no basis in fact and may originate from misguided sources or social media speculation 710.
Conclusion
Breanna Stewart is not deaf, and there is no evidence to support claims of her being hearing impaired. Instead, she is a highly accomplished basketball player, a dedicated advocate for sexual abuse survivors, and a influential figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Her career and personal life reflect resilience, talent, and a commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the court.