Breanna Stewart is, quite simply, one of the greatest college basketball players of all time. At UConn, she led the Huskies to an unbelievable four NCAA championships in four years, becoming a household name in the process. Not only did Stewart dominate the court with her versatility, scoring, and rebounding skills, but she also earned an unprecedented four Final Four MVPs. Her ability to step up in high-pressure games cemented her legacy as a generational talent.
When Stewart entered the WNBA as the No. 1 draft pick for the Seattle Storm, expectations were sky-high, and she exceeded them all. A multiple-time WNBA champion, league MVP, and Finals MVP, Stewart has continued to demonstrate her all-around dominance. Whether it’s her ability to score from anywhere, pull down rebounds, or make clutch plays, she’s proven to be a major game-changer. Later, her move to the New York Liberty only further expanded the legacy of an already historic career.
Maya Moore’s college dominance was the stuff of legends. At UConn, she led the team to two NCAA championships and solidified her reputation as one of basketball’s brightest stars. Her offensive talent, combined with her relentless work ethic, made her nearly impossible to guard. Aside from breaking scoring records, Moore collected multiple National Player of the Year awards, setting a standard of excellence for future prospects.
Transitioning to the WNBA, Moore became the embodiment of success. With the Minnesota Lynx, she captured four WNBA championships and played a pivotal role in turning the franchise into a dynasty. Her all-around skill, from crafty scoring to clutch defense, made her one of the league’s most complete players. Off the court, Moore’s advocacy for social justice has further proven her legendary status beyond basketball.
A’ja Wilson took South Carolina to new heights during her college career. She became the Gamecocks’ all-time leading scorer, won a national championship, and collected multiple National Player of the Year awards. Her dominance in the paint and ability to take over games made her college career unforgettable.
Wilson has transitioned effortlessly to the WNBA, where she’s already picked up an MVP award and a championship with the Las Vegas Aces. With her rare combination of size, skill, and leadership, she’s well on her way to becoming one of the best players in league history.
Before she became the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer, Diana Taurasi was torching defenses at UConn. During her college career, she led the Huskies to three NCAA championships, earning Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors twice. Known for her confidence and clutch performances, Taurasi earned the nickname “White Mamba” for the way she dominated high-stakes games.
Taurasi’s transition to the WNBA with the Phoenix Mercury was seamless, and she quickly established herself as one of the league’s all-time greats. With multiple league titles, Finals MVP awards, and the title of WNBA all-time leading scorer, she continues to dazzle fans year after year. Her competitive fire, sharp shooting, and unparalleled basketball IQ have made her an icon in women's sports.
Candace Parker revolutionized the women’s game during her time at Tennessee. Known for her incredible athleticism and basketball IQ, she led the Lady Vols to back-to-back NCAA championships in 2007 and 2008. She also made headlines as the first woman to dunk in a March Madness game, solidifying her status as a phenom destined for greatness.
True to expectations, Parker lit up the WNBA upon joining the Los Angeles Sparks. A two-time league champion and MVP, she’s a dynamic forward capable of dominating all facets of the game. Later in her career, she lifted her hometown Chicago Sky to a championship, further proving that her leadership and skills are unmatched.
If consistency and leadership had a face, it would be Sue Bird’s. The floor general led UConn to an undefeated season in 2002, capping it off with another NCAA championship. Known for her composure, elegant passing, and ability to make her teammates better, Bird became the heart and soul of one of the most dominant teams in college history.
Bird’s WNBA career speaks volumes about her greatness. Over two decades, she led the Seattle Storm to five championships, earning respect as one of the best point guards of all time. Her ability to control the tempo, deliver pinpoint passes, and consistently make clutch plays has made her a symbol of excellence and longevity.
For many, Sheryl Swoopes represents the foundation of women’s basketball greatness. She single-handedly led Texas Tech to an NCAA championship in 1993, scoring a jaw-dropping 47 points in the title game. Her incredible scoring ability and relentless drive earned her a spot among the sport’s legends.
Swoopes was one of the first players to sign with the WNBA, and she quickly set the tone for what it meant to be a superstar in the young league. Nicknamed “Air Swoopes,” she won three MVP awards and four championships, cementing herself as a trailblazing icon.
We can't talk about influential figures in women’s basketball without mentioning Tamika Catchings! A true legend of the game, Catchings's career was nothing short of extraordinary. From her days at the University of Tennessee under the iconic Pat Summitt to her brilliant career with the Indiana Fever in the WNBA, she consistently exemplified excellence on the court.
Tamika was a 10-time WNBA All-Star, a league MVP in 2011, and a Finals MVP in 2012 when she led the Fever to their first championship. Beyond her statistical achievements, she inspired countless players with her relentless work ethic and her ability to overcome adversity—including playing with a hearing impairment. Off the court, Tamika continues to make an impact as an advocate and mentor, proving that her legacy extends far beyond basketball.
Cheryl Ford made her mark in the WNBA for her rebounding skills and physical presence in the paint. A key player for the Detroit Shock, she won three championships in 2003, 2006, and 2008, solidifying her reputation as a clutch performer. Ford was named WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2003 and consistently demonstrated her ability to influence games with her tenacity and leadership.
What makes her accomplishments even more remarkable is the legacy she carried as the daughter of NBA legend Karl Malone, carving her own path and identity in the basketball world. Off the court, Cheryl has remained an influence, showing how strength, perseverance, and commitment can lead to greatness, both in and out of the game. Her story is a testament to hard work and the ability to shine under pressure.
Brittney Griner has incredible height, athleticism, and unmatched shot-blocking abilities. She made waves during her collegiate career at Baylor University, where she led her team to a national championship and earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Naismith College Player of the Year award.
With the Phoenix Mercury, she won a WNBA championship and earned multiple All-Star selections. Off the court, Brittney has also used her voice to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, becoming a powerful symbol of strength and perseverance. Her impact transcends basketball, inspiring others to live authentically and stand up for their beliefs. Brittney’s legacy continues to grow both as an athlete and as a passionate advocate for change.
