The Top 16 Black WNBA Players Of All Time

5 min read Post on May 17, 2025

The Top 16 Black WNBA Players Of All Time

Early Pioneers and Trailblazers

The foundation of the WNBA was built upon the shoulders of incredible athletes who paved the way for future generations of Black WNBA players. These influential Black WNBA players faced unique challenges and broke barriers to establish the league's success.

Lisa Leslie: A four-time WNBA MVP and three-time champion with the Los Angeles Sparks, Leslie is widely considered one of the greatest players of all time. Her dominance in the paint and her impact on the game's popularity are undeniable.
- WNBA Champion (2001, 2002)
- WNBA MVP (2001, 2004, 2006)
- WNBA Finals MVP (2001, 2002)
- Olympic Gold Medalist (1996, 2000, 2008)
Dawn Staley: A two-time Olympic gold medalist and current head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Staley's influence extends far beyond her playing days. As a point guard, she was known for her leadership and tenacious defense.
- WNBA Champion (1997)
- Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (1996, 2000)
- Hall of Fame Inductee (2013)
Ruth Riley: A pivotal center for the Cleveland Rockers and the Miami Sol, Riley was renowned for her skill and determination. She represented an important early generation of Black WNBA stars.
- WNBA Champion (2003)
- WNBA All-Star (2001, 2002, 2003)

Dominant Scorers and Offensive Powerhouses

These Black WNBA scoring legends consistently delivered breathtaking offensive performances, captivating audiences and leaving an enduring impact on the game. Their high-scoring abilities redefined the landscape of WNBA basketball.

Diana Taurasi: Known for her clutch performances and scoring prowess, Taurasi is considered one of the greatest offensive players in WNBA history. Her fearless approach to the game and her consistency make her a true legend.
- WNBA Champion (2009, 2014, 2021)
- WNBA Finals MVP (2009, 2014)
- WNBA MVP (2009)
- Three-time Olympic Gold Medalist (2004, 2008, 2012, 2020)
Breanna Stewart: A versatile forward with an exceptional scoring touch, Stewart boasts an impressive championship pedigree and numerous individual accolades. Her impact on the game is already undeniable.
- WNBA Champion (2018, 2020)
- WNBA Finals MVP (2020)
- WNBA MVP (2018)
- Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (2016, 2020)
Tamika Catchings: Known for her all-around game, Catchings was also a prolific scorer, demonstrating incredible scoring consistency throughout her long and decorated career.
- WNBA Champion (2012)
- WNBA MVP (2011)
- WNBA Defensive Player of the Year (2010)
- Olympic Gold Medalist (2004, 2008)

Defensive Dynamos and Lockdown Defenders

The WNBA has featured elite defensive players who consistently disrupted opponents' offensive strategies. These top Black WNBA defenders made a significant impact on the game, showcasing incredible skill, determination, and tenacity.

Swin Cash: A versatile player known for her defensive prowess, Cash consistently impacted games with her ability to guard multiple positions. Her tenacity and contributions were instrumental to her teams' success.
- WNBA Champion (2003, 2011)
- Olympic Gold Medalist (2004, 2012)
Sylvia Fowles: A dominant force in the paint, Fowles is a two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, and consistently led the league in rebounding. Her defensive impact was immense, consistently shutting down opposing centers.
- WNBA Champion (2011, 2013)
- WNBA MVP (2017)
- WNBA Defensive Player of the Year (2016, 2019)
Candace Parker: Known for her athleticism and defensive versatility, Parker's dominance and impact are undeniable. Her skills on both sides of the court solidified her legendary status.
- WNBA Champion (2016)
- WNBA MVP (2008, 2012)
- WNBA Defensive Player of the Year (2013)
- Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist (2008, 2012)

All-Around Stars and Versatile Players

These complete Black WNBA players excelled in various facets of the game, demonstrating a level of versatility that helped solidify their teams' success. Their well-rounded skill sets redefined excellence.

Seimone Augustus: A scoring champion with a multifaceted game, Augustus' skillset allowed her to excel in multiple aspects of the game, contributing greatly to her team's success.
- WNBA Champion (2011, 2017)
- WNBA All-Star (2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012)
Sue Bird: An exceptional point guard known for her court vision, passing, and leadership, Bird's contributions to her team went beyond simple scoring, impacting every facet of the game.
- WNBA Champion (2004, 2010, 2018, 2020)
- WNBA All-Star (12x)
- Four-time Olympic Gold Medalist (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016)
Maya Moore: Moore's impact was immeasurable. Although currently retired, her skills made her a constant threat across multiple areas.
- WNBA Champion (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017)
- WNBA MVP (2014)

Impact Beyond the Court: Leadership and Advocacy

These influential Black WNBA figures have leveraged their platforms to advocate for social justice and inspire positive change within their communities, proving their impact is far-reaching.

Breanna Stewart: Stewart is vocal about equality and social justice issues, consistently using her platform to speak out for what's right.
Nneka Ogwumike: Ogwumike is a strong advocate for women’s rights and social justice, using her voice to raise awareness and spark meaningful conversations.
Sue Bird: Bird has been a constant force for change throughout her career and consistently uses her voice to champion what she believes in.

Conclusion

This article has highlighted the extraordinary contributions of 16 impactful Black WNBA players, showcasing their talent, dedication, and influence both on and off the court. These women represent the epitome of athleticism, resilience, and leadership, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike. They are true legends of the WNBA.

Who are your favorite Black WNBA players? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! Let's continue to celebrate the amazing legacy of Black WNBA players and their enduring impact on the sport. Learn more about these incredible athletes and discover more inspiring stories of Black WNBA players by exploring further resources online!