5 retired WNBA legends that helped change the game

When I think of legendary women basketball players, I think of Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, Tamika Catchings, Candace Parker, and Diana Taurasi. These athletes set a standard that current stars like Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson, and Paige Bueckers continue to elevate.

Of course, countless others also deserve their flowers. Yet, I’ll start with a few details about these GOATs who’ve proven they’re among the best to grace the court.

Sheryl Swoopes

During the 1997 inaugural season, Swoopes was selected by the Houston Comets. She became a 4x WNBA Champion and 6x WNBA All-Star and was inducted into the Houston and Texas Sports Hall of Fame. She’s also the second WNBA player to snag a regular-season MVP award and an MVP award in the All-Star game, right behind Lisa Leslie.

Lisa Leslie

Leslie dominated the WNBA during her tenure. She’s an 8x WNBA All-Star, 3x WNBA MVP, 2x Defensive Player of the Year, and more. She played center and was selected by the Los Angeles Sparks in 1997, where she spent her entire career. The 2x WNBA Champion also served as a coach for the BIG3’s Triplets from 2019 to 2024.

Tamika Catchings

For Catchings, it’s 10s across the board! She’s a 10x WNBA All-Star and a 10x WNBA All-Defensive First Team. In 2012, she won the WNBA Championship and the Finals MVP award. Catchings’ iconic #24 Indiana Fever jersey is retired, and she still holds the record for the WNBA playoffs’ all-time steals leader.

Candace Parker

After being drafted to the Los Angeles Sparks in 2008, Parker wasted no time standing out. She’s a 3x WNBA Champion, snagging the title with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2016, the Chicago Sky in 2021, and the Las Vegas Aces in 2023 before retiring. Parker is a 7x WNBA All-Star and led the league in rebounds in 2008, 2009, and 2020.

Diana Taurasi

Taurasi’s reign never slowed down. She became the first WNBA player to score 10,000 career points. The 2004 first-overall pick was drafted to the Phoenix Mercury, where she remained. She’s a 3x WNBA Champion, 10x WNBA All-Star, and a 2x WNBA Finals MVP.

Will there be a 2026 WNBA season?

Many fans do not know if there will be a 2026 WNBA season due to the ongoing negotiations between the WNBPA and the league. The current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) was extended to January 9, 2026, so my fingers are crossed that I’ll get to witness another electrifying season, watching my favorite players face off.

However, these women deserve what they’re asking for, and I hope they receive it.