Sporting excellence has emphatically passed to a new generation in the famous Brady family, as Maya Brady – the niece of American football icon Tom Brady – has been chosen as the number one overall pick in a professional softball league draft.
A First Pick Legacy, Unlike Her Uncle
This prestigious selection stands in stark contrast to the early career of her legendary uncle. Tom Brady famously endured a slide to the sixth round of the 2000 NFL Draft before the New England Patriots finally called his name, a moment that became the foundation of an unparalleled sporting story.
For Maya, the path to professional recognition was far more immediate. The Oklahoma City Spark secured her talents with the opening selection in The Athletes Unlimited Softball League expansion draft this past Monday. Maya, the daughter of Tom Brady's eldest sister Maureen, had previously been playing for the Talons after being chosen 19th in the league's inaugural draft earlier this year.
Proving Her Dominance on the Field
The shortstop's promotion to a new franchise follows a stellar debut professional season. Maya impressed with a remarkable .500 batting average, hitting a home run and securing five RBI across just eight games. Her contributions were instrumental in helping the Talons clinch a championship title.
Her college career at UCLA provided a strong foundation, and her rapid ascent has clearly caught the eye of her seven-time Super Bowl champion uncle. Tom Brady has publicly lauded his niece, previously describing her as 'the most dominant athlete in the Brady family… by far.'
A Close-Knit Sporting Dynasty
Athletic prowess is clearly a family trait. Maya's mother Maureen was a standout softball pitcher in high school, while her aunt Julie played college soccer at St. Mary's and is married to former Boston Red Sox star and two-time World Series champion, Kevin Youkilis.
Despite the weight of her famous surname, Maya has expressed a desire to carve her own identity. In a 2021 interview with Togethxr, where she affectionately called him 'Uncle Tommy', she stated: 'Even though I don't mind being known as Tom Brady's niece, at the end of the day I would love to just be known as Maya Brady.'
Nevertheless, the bond between uncle and niece is profoundly close. She revealed he has been a significant influence, saying, 'I would definitely consider him more of a father figure than my uncle.' She credits him with teaching her to block out critics, noting, 'He doesn't listen to people when they tell him that he's not good enough or he's too old.'
When Tom Brady announced his final retirement in February 2023, Maya posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing: 'Watching you play football has been one of the greatest joys of my life… The greatest to ever do it! I love you so much.' As she embarks on her own professional journey as a top draft pick, Maya Brady is now creating those iconic sporting moments for herself.
