WNBA's Greatest Players in History: Cheryl Ford

• 3-time WNBA champion with the Detroit Shock (2003, 2006, 2008)
• 4-time WNBA All-Star (2003, 2005, 2006, 2007)
• 2-time WNBA rebounding champion (2005, 2006)

Cheryl Ford was a dominant force in the WNBA, anchoring the Detroit Shock's dynasty of the 2000s with her elite rebounding and interior presence. Her combination of strength, skill and tenacity made her one of the league's most impactful players.

Overview

Cheryl Ford burst onto the WNBA scene in 2003, leading the Detroit Shock to a worst-to-first turnaround and championship in her rookie season. The daughter of NBA legend Karl Malone, Ford established herself as one of the premier rebounders and post players in WNBA history over her seven-year career with Detroit. Her combination of power, positioning and relentless effort on the boards helped fuel the Shock's dynasty, winning three titles in six seasons.

Career snapshot

Ford was selected 3rd overall by the Detroit Shock in the 2003 WNBA Draft after a stellar collegiate career at Louisiana Tech. She made an immediate impact, averaging a double-double of 10.8 points and 10.4 rebounds per game en route to winning Rookie of the Year honours. Ford's rebounding prowess was evident from the start, as she led the league in rebounds per game in 2005 (9.8) and 2006 (11.3).

At her peak from 2005-2007, Ford was nearly unstoppable in the paint, earning three straight All-Star selections and two All-WNBA Second Team nods. She was named All-Star Game MVP in 2007 after posting 16 points and 13 rebounds. Ford's consistent production and playoff success cemented her status as one of the top power forwards of her era.

Playing style

Ford utilised her 6'3" frame and strength to dominate the glass on both ends of the floor. She had an innate ability to carve out position in the paint and time her jumps perfectly to snag rebounds. On offence, Ford was an efficient finisher around the rim and had a reliable mid-range jumper. Her passing vision out of the post and defensive presence made her a complete two-way force.

What set Ford apart was her relentless motor and physicality. She embraced contact and often outworked opponents for loose balls and second-chance opportunities. Ford's toughness and leadership were crucial to Detroit's success, as she set the tone with her intensity and work ethic.

Why Cheryl Ford is on our list

Cheryl Ford's impact on the WNBA extended far beyond her impressive statistical output. As the anchor of a dynastic Shock team, Ford helped establish Detroit as one of the league's premier franchises in the 2000s. Her consistent double-double production and elite rebounding numbers place her among the best post players in WNBA history.

Ford's career rebounding average of 9.7 per game ranks 3rd all-time, behind only Sylvia Fowles and Yolanda Griffith. She led the league in total rebounds three times (2003, 2005, 2006) and remains one of only seven players to average 10+ rebounds for a season multiple times. Ford's combination of individual accolades, team success, and statistical dominance solidify her legacy as one of the most impactful players of her generation.

Five Fast Facts

1. Cheryl Ford is the daughter of NBA Hall of Famer Karl Malone
2. She is the first player to win Rookie of the Year and a WNBA championship in the same season (2003)
3. Ford holds the WNBA record for most rebounds in a single game with 23 (tied with Yolanda Griffith)
4. She was named to the All-WNBA Second Team twice (2003, 2006)
5. Ford played her entire 7-year WNBA career with the Detroit Shock

Career Highlights Timeline

2003: Drafted 3rd overall by Detroit Shock, wins Rookie of the Year and WNBA championship

2005: Named WNBA All-Star, leads league in rebounds per game (9.8)

2006: Earns All-WNBA Second Team, leads league in rebounds (11.3), wins second WNBA title

2007: Named WNBA All-Star Game MVP

2008: Wins third WNBA championship with Detroit Shock