The Top WNBA Players of All Time
From Brittney Griner to Diana Taurasi, we're ranking the best WNBA players of all time, many of whom find themselves still dominating as some of the greatest current WNBA players. Who are the legends of the Women's National Basketball Association? Composed of 12 all-women basketball teams, the WNBA was founded in 1996. Originally, all teams were owned by the NBA. But several teams, such as the Los Angeles Sparks and the Atlanta Dream, are independently owned. This distinction is incredibly important for the WNBA, as they've had the opportunity to distance themselves from the NBA and come into their own.
Early famous WNBA stars included Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, and Rebecca Lobo, all of whom helped the U.S. women's basketball team win the gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta. The Houston Comets, lead by four-time Finals MVP, Cynthia Cooper, dominated the WNBA from 1997 to 2000. Lisa Leslie and the Los Angeles Sparks won back-to-back WNBA championships the next two years before she retired in 2009. Today's best women's basketball players include Lauren Jackson, Seimone Augustus and Tamika Catchings.
Who are the top WNBA players of all time? Vote for your favorite to the top of the list and see who's truly the best of the best!
- 1
Lisa Leslie
Center- Age: 51
- Birthplace: Gardena, California, USA
Lisa Leslie's imposing 6'5" frame and powerful abilities made her a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court during her remarkable career with the Los Angeles Sparks. A dominant inside presence, Leslie was known for her exceptional rebounding and shot-blocking skills, along with an offensive game that fused finesse with brute strength. Furthermore, her impact on the sport is immense, as she helped propel the WNBA to new heights of popularity and has become an icon for young female athletes who aspire to forge a path in professional basketball.
- 2Small forward
- Age: 34
- Birthplace: Jefferson City, Missouri
In a league filled with gifted athletes, Maya Moore has managed to carve out an indelible legacy due to her dazzling athleticism, boundless skill set, and unrelenting competitive drive. As one of the most versatile players ever to grace a WNBA court, Moore's expansive offensive repertoire includes smooth drives to the basket, pinpoint passing ability, and dead-eye shooting from beyond the arc. Few players have impacted the game with such intensity and flair, leaving fans and opponents in awe at her seemingly unstoppable talent and breathtaking performances.
- 3Point guard, Shooting guard, Small forward
- Age: 41
- Birthplace: Glendale, California
- Number: 3
Diana Taurasi's keen basketball intelligence, electric scoring ability, and unwavering confidence have cemented her status as one of the WNBA's all-time greats. With an uncanny knack for creating her own shot and a fierce competitiveness that often sees her dominate the floor, Taurasi's career with the Phoenix Mercury has been nothing short of spectacular. Her impact stretches far beyond her numerous accolades, as she has motivated countless young athletes to push themselves to greater heights and has been a trailblazer for women's basketball at large.
- 4Power forward, Center
- Age: 37
- Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri
- Teams: Chicago Sky
Candace Parker's sublime combination of size, athleticism, and skill has seen her become one of the most recognizable and accomplished players in the history of the WNBA. Her ability to dominate both inside the paint and on the perimeter, as well as her exceptional passing skills, have made her a matchup nightmare for opponents. With an affable personality and engaging style of play, Parker has been instrumental in raising awareness of the WNBA and inspiring young female athletes to follow in her footsteps.
- 5
Sheryl Swoopes
Sheryl Swoopes' incredible athleticism, smothering defense, and fearless offensive capabilities earned her widespread acclaim throughout her illustrious career with the Houston Comets. Known for her relentless work ethic, Swoopes was a consummate professional who led by example, inspiring her teammates and establishing herself as a role model for younger players. Her contributions to the game of women's basketball extend far beyond the hardwood, as she has been a tireless advocate for the growth and advancement of the sport.
- 6
Sue Bird
Point guard- Age: 42
- Birthplace: Syosset, New York
- Number: 10
- Teams: Seattle Storm
Sue Bird's unwavering poise, masterful court vision, and leadership abilities have propelled her to legendary status within the WNBA as one of the greatest point guards to ever lace up her sneakers. A true orchestrator on the court, Bird has consistently demonstrated her ability to control the tempo of a game, create opportunities for her teammates, and showcase an unparalleled understanding of the intricacies of basketball. Her enduring presence on the Seattle Storm has provided fans with countless unforgettable moments and her impact on the sport will resound for generations to come.
