10 Greatest WNBA Players of All Time

Greatest WNBA Players of All Time – The WNBA has been a beacon of excellence, showcasing the world’s best women basketball players since its inception in 1997. Through dedication, unmatched skill, and sheer passion, these athletes have not only molded the league but have also become pivotal figures in basketball history. Today, we pay tribute to the 10 greatest WNBA players of all time, celebrating their achievements and impact on the game.

How Players Were Ranked

Determining the top players of all time is no small feat, especially in a league as talent-packed as the WNBA. Our criteria for this list accounts for several key factors:

• Career Statistics: Consistency and dominance in scoring, rebounding, assists, and other key metrics.
• Championship Success: Contributions to team championships and playoff performances.
• Individual Accolades: MVP awards, All-Star selections, and other recognitions.
• Legacy and Impact: Influence on the game, cultural significance, and contributions to pushing the WNBA forward.

With these considerations in mind, here are the athletes who truly defined greatness.

The 10 Greatest WNBA Players of All Time

1. Lisa Leslie

Position: Center | Years Active: 1997–2009 | Teams: Los Angeles Sparks

Lisa Leslie’s name is synonymous with WNBA greatness. A four-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time WNBA champion, Leslie dominated opponents with her immense scoring ability and defensive presence. She was also the league’s first player to dunk during a game, cementing her place in history.

• Key Achievements:
• • 3× WNBA MVP (2001, 2004, 2006)
  • 8× All-Star
  • Career Points: 6,263
  • Career Rebounds: 3,307

2. Diana Taurasi

Position: Guard | Years Active: 2004–Present | Teams: Phoenix Mercury

Often labeled “The White Mamba,” Diana Taurasi is the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer with over 9,000 career points. Taurasi’s fierce competitiveness and clutch scoring have earned her three championships and countless iconic moments, especially in high-pressure games.

• Key Achievements:
• • 3× WNBA Champion (2007, 2009, 2014)
  • 1× WNBA MVP (2009)
  • 10× All-WNBA First Team
  • Career Playoff Points Leader

3. Tamika Catchings

Position: Forward | Years Active: 2002–2016 | Teams: Indiana Fever

Tamika Catchings was the quintessential two-way player. Renowned for her defensive prowess, Catchings could lock down any opponent while still excelling offensively. She capped her illustrious career with a WNBA title in 2012.

• Key Achievements:
• • 5× Defensive Player of the Year
  • 12× All-WNBA Player
  • 1× WNBA Champion
  • Career Steals Leader

4. Sheryl Swoopes

Position: Forward | Years Active: 1997–2011 | Teams: Houston Comets and others

Sheryl Swoopes was the first player signed by the WNBA and one of the league’s most iconic stars. Her early dominance played a significant role in establishing the league’s reputation. Swoopes excelled offensively and defensively, earning her three MVP titles.

• Key Achievements:
• • 3× MVP (2000, 2002, 2005)
  • 4× WNBA Champion
  • 3× Defensive Player of the Year

5. Sue Bird

Position: Guard | Years Active: 2002–2022 | Teams: Seattle Storm

Widely considered one of the best playmakers to set foot on the court, Sue Bird’s ability to orchestrate an offense is unparalleled. Her consistency fueled an impressive 19-year career that included four championships.

• Key Achievements:
• • 4× WNBA Champion
  • 13× All-Star
  • All-Time Leader in Assists

6. Cynthia Cooper-Dyke

Position: Guard | Years Active: 1997–2000, 2003 | Teams: Houston Comets

Few players dominated the league as quickly as Cynthia Cooper-Dyke. She led the Houston Comets to four consecutive championships in the league’s early years and claimed MVP honors twice.

• Key Achievements:
• • 4× WNBA Champion
  • 2× MVP
  • 3× All-WNBA First Team
  • Career Points Per Game Leader

7. Lauren Jackson

Position: Forward/Center | Years Active: 2001–2012 | Teams: Seattle Storm

Lauren Jackson’s blend of size, skill, and shooting touch made her one of the most versatile players in WNBA history. A two-time champion and three-time MVP, the Australian superstar embodied dominance in every aspect of the game.

• Key Achievements:
• • 2× WNBA Champion
  • 3× MVP
  • 7× All-Star
  • Career Blocks Leader

8. Maya Moore

Position: Forward | Years Active: 2011–2018 | Teams: Minnesota Lynx

Known for her incredible athleticism, Maya Moore helped the Minnesota Lynx build a dynasty, winning four titles in eight seasons. Though her career was cut short by her focus on social justice, Moore’s on-court legacy is unassailable.

• Key Achievements:
• • 4× WNBA Champion
  • 1× MVP (2014)
  • 6× All-WNBA Player
  • Finals MVP (2013)

9. Candace Parker

Position: Forward | Years Active: 2008–Present | Teams: Los Angeles Sparks, Chicago Sky

One of the most versatile and flamboyant players in WNBA history, Candace Parker has consistently wowed fans with her highlight-reel plays. She became the first player to win both Rookie of the Year and MVP honors in the same season.

• Key Achievements:
• • 2× WNBA Champion (2016, 2021)
  • 2× MVP (2008, 2013)
  • 6× All-Star
  • All-Time Double-Double Leader

10. Becky Hammon

Position: Guard | Years Active: 1999–2014 | Teams: San Antonio Stars, New York Liberty

Becky Hammon was the ultimate floor general, bringing creativity and leadership to every game she played. After retiring, Hammon made history as the first full-time female NBA assistant coach, proving her leadership extends beyond the court.

• Key Achievements:
• • 6× All-Star
  • Top-10 Career Assists Leader

Memorable Moments

These players have not just built careers but have also created unforgettable sporting moments. From Lisa Leslie’s first-ever dunk to Diana Taurasi’s clutch playoff performances, they’ve turned basketball games into events that live on in the memories of fans worldwide.

Pioneers of Progress

The legacy of these 10 athletes goes far beyond trophies and accolades. They’ve redefined what’s possible, inspired new generations of players, and elevated the WNBA to its current stature. Each name on this list has played a role in shaping the league into a global force for sports excellence and equality.