WNBA's 10 Best Players of All Time – Ranked

 Legends of the Court: Ranking the 10 Greatest WNBA Players in History!

The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) stands as a beacon of excellence in professional women's basketball, captivating audiences worldwide with its high-level competition and exceptional talent.

As the premier professional league for women's basketball in the United States, the WNBA's influence extends far beyond its borders, continuing to influence the landscape of women's basketball worldwide.

In recognizing this league's 10 greatest players of all time, we not only pay tribute to these extraordinary athletes who have graced its courts but also acknowledge their indelible impact on women's basketball.

On the other hand, ranking the "10 Best WNBA Players of All Time" is subjective and can vary depending on criteria such as statistics, impact on the game, championships won, longevity, and individual accolades.

However, here's a list, in no particular order, of the ten best WNBA players who are often considered among the WNBA greatest:

1. Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie is considered one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her groundbreaking achievements and impact on basketball.

As a three-time WNBA MVP (2001, 2004, 2006), two-time champion (2001, 2002), and eight-time All-Star, Leslie's dominance in the post revolutionized the league.

She was the first player to dunk in a WNBA game, exhibiting her athleticism and skill.

Beyond her on-court success, Leslie's leadership and influence helped elevate the profile of women's basketball, inspiring future generations of players.

Her legacy as a trailblazer and exceptional talent solidifies Lisa Leslie's place among the WNBA's all-time greats.

2. Diana Taurasi

Diana Taurasi is widely regarded as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her unparalleled scoring ability, leadership, and impact on basketball.

As the WNBA's all-time leading scorer, Taurasi has consistently delivered clutch performances, earning her the nickname "White Mamba."

With three championships (2007, 2009, 2014), WNBA MVP (2009), and 10 WNBA All-Star selections, epitomizes her excellence on the court.

Taurasi's competitive spirit, basketball IQ, and versatility make her a threat in every aspect of this game.

Beyond statistics, Diana Taurasi's influence transcends this sport, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike, and cementing her legacy as a true basketball icon.

3. Tamika Catchings

Tamika Catchings is revered as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her exceptional versatility, defensive skills, and leadership both on and off the court.

As a WNBA MVP (2011), champion (2012), and five-time Defensive Player of the Year, Catchings has shown an unparalleled ability to impact the game on multiple fronts.

Her relentless work ethic, dedication to her craft, and commitment to community service set her apart as a role model and ambassador for this sport.

Catchings' impact transcends statistics, leaving an indelible mark on the WNBA and inspiring future generations of players with her tenacity and passion for basketball.

4. Sheryl Swoopes

Sheryl Swoopes is regarded as one of the best WNBA players of all time for her trailblazing contributions to the game and her unmatched skill set.

As a three-time WNBA MVP (2000, 2002, 2005), four-time champion (1997-2000), and six-time All-Star, Swoopes dominated the league with her scoring, defense, and leadership.

She was among the first generation of players to elevate the WNBA's visibility, exhibiting her athleticism and basketball IQ to a global audience.

Swoopes' impact extended beyond the WNBA court, inspiring a new wave of basketball fans and players while solidifying her legacy as a pioneer and icon of women's basketball.

5. Sue Bird

Sue Bird is revered as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her exceptional court vision, leadership, and unparalleled consistency.

As a prominent point guard, Bird has guided the Seattle Storm to four championships (2004, 2010, 2018, 2020), while earning numerous All-Star selections and All-WNBA honors.

Her ability to control the game's pace, deliver pinpoint passes, and knock down clutch shots has made her a linchpin for success throughout her career in the WNBA.

Off the court, Bird's advocacy for women's sports and LGBTQ+ rights further solidifies her legacy as not just a basketball icon but also a trailblazer and role model worldwide.

6. Cynthia Cooper

Cynthia Cooper is regarded as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her unparalleled scoring ability, consistent performance, and clutch performances.

As a dynamic guard, Cooper led the Houston Comets to four consecutive WNBA championships (1997-2020) and earned two WNBA Finals MVP (1997, 1998) awards.

Known for her relentless work ethic and competitive spirit, she consistently delivered in high-pressure situations, earning four WNBA Finals MVP (1997-2000) awards as well.

Cooper's impact extended beyond her statistical achievements, as she helped elevate the profile of women's basketball and paved the way for future generations of players with her exceptional skill and leadership on the WNBA court.

7. Lauren Jackson

Lauren Jackson is considered one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her dominant presence on both ends of the court.

As a versatile forward/center, Jackson earned three WNBA MVP (2003, 2007, 2010) awards and led the Seattle Storm to two WNBA championships.

Her combination of size, skill, and athleticism made her a matchup nightmare, capable of scoring inside and outside while also anchoring the defense.

Jackson's impact extended internationally, as she exhibited her talent in multiple Olympic Games, further solidifying her status as one of the most influential and accomplished players in the history of women's basketball.

8. Maya Moore

Maya Moore is regarded as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her extraordinary talent, versatility, and impact both on and off the court.

A four-time WNBA champion (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017) and former MVP (2014), Moore showed her versatility to dominate games with her scoring, playmaking, and defensive skills.

Her clutch performances in the big matches like championship moments solidified her reputation as a big-game player.

Beyond basketball, Moore's activism and advocacy for criminal justice reform showed her commitment to social justice issues, further elevating her status as a role model and inspiration for future generations of basketball enthusiasts.

9. Candace Parker 

Candace Parker is recognized as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her exceptional skill set, versatility, and impact on the game.

A two-time MVP (2008, 2013), and three-time WNBA champion (2016, 2021, 2023), Parker has shown a rare combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, allowing her to excel in multiple positions on the court.

Her ability to score, rebound, defend, and facilitate makes her a complete player and a matchup nightmare for opponents in the WNBA.

Parker's leadership and competitiveness have consistently propelled her teams to success, solidifying her legacy as one of the most dominant and influential players in WNBA history.

10. Sylvia Fowles

Sylvia Fowles is esteemed as one of the best WNBA players of all time due to her dominance on the court, defensive skills, and consistency throughout her career.

A two-time WNBA champion (2015, 2017) and WNBA MVP (2017), Fowles has redefined the role of the center with her shot-blocking ability, rebounding skills, and efficient scoring in the post. 

Two-time WNBA Finals MVP (2015, 2017), her impact on both ends of the court has been instrumental in leading her teams to championships and playoff success.

Fowles' work ethic, consistency, and dedication to her craft solidify her status as one of the most popular players in WNBA history.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, we've explored the remarkable careers of the WNBA's 10 Best Players of All Time, each leaving an indelible mark on this league and the global landscape of women's basketball.

From their awe-inspiring performances on the court to their tireless advocacy off it, these legends have not only elevated the level of competition in the WNBA but also played a pivotal role in popularizing women's basketball worldwide.

Finally, this post invites you to share your thoughts on these 10 best WNBAs' extraordinary athletes and continue the conversation on social media.

Let's celebrate their legacy together, let's enjoy the WNBA. Thanks!

Published by

Mostafa Masud

For SportsOwls

sportsowls@gmail.com