Women's college basketball has undergone a profound transformation over the last sixty years. Once an afterthought for athletic departments, the sport has evolved into a powerhouse, with programs like UConn, South Carolina, UCLA, and Texas drawing massive attention and showcasing elite talent. In celebration of our 140-year anniversary, we have curated a list of the 15 greatest players in the history of the sport, recognizing those who propelled the game to its current heights.


The First Team: Icons of Excellence

Chamique Holdsclaw (Tennessee): A spindly, elegant forward, Holdsclaw was the undisputed face of women's basketball in the late 90s, leading the Volunteers to three consecutive national championships and earning numerous Player of the Year honors.

Cheryl Miller (USC): During her time at USC, Miller was more of a mythical figure than a mere player. She dominated the court with an unmatched combination of scoring and defensive prowess, leading the Trojans to two national titles in the early 1980s.

Diana Taurasi (UConn): Few players possessed the ability to dictate winning campaigns like Taurasi. As a key anchor for three championship-winning UConn teams, she established herself as arguably the greatest guard prospect the sport has ever seen.

Caitlin Clark (Iowa): A transcendent scorer and passer, Clark redefined the offensive potential of the game. Her ability to deliver in high-pressure moments and her historic shooting range cemented her legacy as one of the most impactful players to ever step on the collegiate court.

Breanna Stewart (UConn): Widely regarded as the sport's greatest winner, Stewart secured four national championships in four years, earning the Most Outstanding Player award in every single tournament run. Her versatility and two-way skill set were unparalleled.


The Second Team: Trailblazers and Dominant Forces

The list continues with equally legendary figures who left an indelible mark on the hardwood:

  • Maya Moore (UConn): A consummate performer, Moore rose to the occasion in the biggest games, securing two national titles and numerous individual awards.
  • Brittney Griner (Baylor): A defensive force of nature, Griner remains the all-time leader in blocks, using her 6-9 frame to dominate the post like few others.
  • Candace Parker (Tennessee): A spectacular two-way talent, Parker helped re-establish Tennessee as a national powerhouse, winning back-to-back championships.
  • Sheryl Swoopes (Texas Tech): Known for her explosive scoring, Swoopes set the single-game championship record with 47 points in the 1993 title game, a record that remains today.
  • Dawn Staley (Virginia): Despite her diminutive stature, Staley was the premier playmaker of her era, known for her intensity and exceptional defensive instincts.

The Third Team: Pioneers and Legends

Rounding out our list are players whose contributions built the foundation for today's stars:

Lynette Woodard (Kansas) was a prolific scorer and record-setter long before the three-point line existed. Ann Meyers Drysdale (UCLA) made history as the first woman to receive a Division I athletic scholarship and later signed an NBA contract. Seimone Augustus (LSU) was a pivotal figure who elevated her hometown program to new heights. Clarissa Davis (Texas) remains one of the most feared players of the late 80s, while Lusia Harris (Delta State), often called the “Queen of Basketball,” dominated the 1970s with a post-game that remains legendary.


“Watching her play was marvelous,” said Ann Meyers Drysdale regarding Lusia Harris. “There was no one like her. She was 6-foot-3, solid as a rock. Had great footwork, great hands, could hit the 15-footer.”