Court Queens: Ranking the Most Influential WNBA Players of All Time

The WNBA has been home to some of the most talented, trailblazing, and inspiring athletes in sports history. But beyond stats and trophies, some players have changed the game itself—shaping how the league is perceived, expanding its fan base, and using their platform for greater impact. In this article, we celebrate the most influential WNBA players of all time—not just for what they did on the court, but for how they moved the league, the culture, and the conversation forward.

1. Lisa Leslie

Lisa Leslie is often considered the face of the WNBA’s early years. A dominant force for the Los Angeles Sparks, Leslie was an eight-time All-Star, three-time MVP, and the first player to dunk in a WNBA game. But her influence went far beyond athleticism—she brought elegance, media savvy, and a fierce competitiveness that made her a role model for women’s sports. Leslie helped mainstream the league during its formative years and remains an iconic figure in women’s basketball today.

2. Diana Taurasi

Known as “The White Mamba,” Diana Taurasi is the WNBA’s all-time leading scorer and one of the most decorated athletes in basketball history. With multiple championships, MVP awards, and Olympic gold medals, Taurasi has consistently elevated the level of play. Her fiery spirit, clutch shooting, and leadership have inspired a generation of athletes. Taurasi's impact stretches into international basketball as well, having starred in leagues around the world. She’s the player other players want on their team—and the one fans never forget.

3. Sheryl Swoopes

Sheryl Swoopes was the first player signed to the WNBA and a cornerstone of the Houston Comets’ dynasty. She was a three-time MVP, four-time champion, and a defensive powerhouse. Swoopes also made headlines for being one of the first openly gay athletes in professional sports, helping to break down barriers and normalize LGBTQ+ representation. Her courage off the court and dominance on it helped cement her status as one of the league’s most influential figures.

4. Tamika Catchings

Tamika Catchings embodied excellence, resilience, and heart. Despite being born with a hearing impairment, she went on to become a 10-time All-Star, five-time Defensive Player of the Year, and 2011 MVP. As the face of the Indiana Fever, Catchings brought championship pedigree and was beloved for her relentless work ethic. Off the court, she has been a pillar in her community through Catch the Stars Foundation, empowering youth through fitness and education. Her legacy is one of perseverance and leadership.

5. Maya Moore

Maya Moore may be one of the most talented players to ever touch a basketball, but it’s her decision to step away from the sport at her peak that makes her influence even greater. A four-time WNBA champion with the Minnesota Lynx and a league MVP, Moore paused her career in 2019 to focus on criminal justice reform. She helped free Jonathan Irons, a wrongly convicted man, and later married him. Her activism brought national attention to injustice and redefined what it means to be an athlete with a purpose.

6. Sue Bird

With a career that spans two decades, Sue Bird is one of the most respected and accomplished athletes in WNBA history. A four-time champion and 13-time All-Star, Bird has been a steady leader for the Seattle Storm and Team USA. She is admired not only for her court vision and playmaking but also for her role in player advocacy, CBA negotiations, and LGBTQ+ representation. Her influence continues even in retirement as a commentator, investor, and mentor to the next generation.

Honorable Mentions

Other players who have made a significant impact include:

• Brittney Griner – Known for her dunks and shot-blocking, Griner has also become a symbol of resilience following her detainment in Russia.
• Cynthia Cooper – The original MVP and key figure in the Houston Comets dynasty, Cooper set the standard for early WNBA greatness.
• Sylvia Fowles – A dominant post player and two-time champion, Fowles is celebrated for her consistency and quiet leadership.

Influence in the WNBA isn’t just measured in points or championships—it’s about impact. The players on this list have shaped the league, elevated women’s sports, and inspired countless fans around the world. Their legacies live on through every rookie who dreams of playing professionally and every young girl who sees herself in a jersey. They didn’t just play the game—they changed it.