10 Surprising Facts About the WNBA Every Fan Should Know

The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has grown steadily in talent, influence, and fan engagement since its debut. Yet many fans, both new and seasoned, are still surprised by some of the league’s lesser-known milestones, achievements, and statistics. From trailblazing players to record-breaking performances, the WNBA is full of history and inspiration that deserves the spotlight. Below are ten surprising facts about the league that every basketball fan should know.

1. The WNBA Was Officially Launched in 1996

While women’s professional basketball had existed in various forms, it wasn’t until April 24, 1996, that the NBA Board of Governors approved the creation of the WNBA. The league was officially introduced with the tagline “We Got Next,” and its first season tipped off in 1997. This made the WNBA the first women’s professional sports league in the U.S. to receive full backing from an established men’s league.

2. Only Eight Teams Played in the First Season

The WNBA began with just eight teams: New York Liberty, Los Angeles Sparks, Phoenix Mercury, Houston Comets, Charlotte Sting, Cleveland Rockers, Sacramento Monarchs, and Utah Starzz. Several of these teams have since folded or relocated, but the league has maintained a strong foundation with 12 teams as of today. Expansion talks are once again on the table, pointing to continued growth.

3. Lisa Leslie Was the First WNBA Player to Dunk

In 2002, Los Angeles Sparks legend Lisa Leslie made history as the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game. Her one-handed slam not only wowed fans but also marked a major moment in women’s sports. Since then, other players like Brittney Griner and Sylvia Fowles have followed suit, proving that dunking is no longer just a men’s game.

4. Cynthia Cooper Won Four Titles and the First MVP

Cynthia Cooper was a dominant force for the Houston Comets, winning the league’s first four championships from 1997 to 2000. She was also the WNBA’s first MVP and Finals MVP during those years. Cooper's remarkable run helped establish the league’s credibility and inspired future superstars.

5. Many Players Compete Internationally During the Offseason

Unlike many NBA players who use the offseason for rest and training, a significant number of WNBA athletes play overseas to supplement their income. Countries like Russia, Turkey, and Australia are popular destinations. Some players have even earned more money abroad than in the WNBA, though recent league agreements are improving salaries and benefits domestically.

6. The WNBA Led the Way in Social Justice

WNBA players have long been at the forefront of activism. In 2020, the league honored Breonna Taylor and the Black Lives Matter movement by wearing her name on jerseys and staging protests. The Atlanta Dream’s players were also instrumental in supporting U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock’s election campaign, opposing then-owner Kelly Loeffler's political stance.

7. WNBA Stats Show High Efficiency and Fundamentals

The WNBA game is known for its focus on fundamentals—sharp passing, smart defense, and efficient scoring. Advanced stats often show that WNBA players have higher assist-to-turnover ratios and better shooting percentages than many NBA counterparts. The pace and teamwork of the women’s game often serve as a model for young athletes learning the sport.

8. Diana Taurasi Is the WNBA’s All-Time Scoring Leader

Diana Taurasi, guard for the Phoenix Mercury, is the league’s all-time points leader, with over 10,000 points scored. Known for her clutch shooting and fiery competitiveness, Taurasi has been the face of the league for much of her career and is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, male or female.

9. Nearly All WNBA Players Hold a College Degree

Most WNBA players stay in college for four years before entering the league. This is partly due to the draft eligibility rules, which require players to be at least 22 years old or have completed college eligibility. As a result, the WNBA has one of the highest education rates among professional sports leagues.

10. The League Continues to Inspire Future Generations

With increasing viewership, expanded media coverage, and growing merchandise sales, the WNBA’s influence is at an all-time high. Young girls around the world now grow up with role models like A’ja Wilson, Sabrina Ionescu, and Breanna Stewart. The league’s presence is inspiring the next generation of athletes, coaches, and fans.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting into the women’s game, these facts offer a glimpse into why the WNBA is so special. It’s more than a basketball league—it’s a movement filled with pioneers, leaders, and unmatched talent. As the league continues to grow, there’s never been a better time to support women’s basketball and celebrate the stories that make it great.