6
Nov
5 mins
WNBA's Greatest Players in History: Sheryl Swoopes
Sheryl Swoopes #22 of the Houston Comets shoots a free throw during the game against the Los Angeles Sparks at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California. Photo: Kellie Landis /Allsport
Sheryl Swoopes is a 3-time MVP, 4-time Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist
- First player signed in WNBA history
- 3-time WNBA MVP (2000, 2002, 2005)
- 4-time WNBA champion with Houston Comets (1997-2000)
Sheryl Swoopes is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential players in women's basketball history. Her combination of scoring prowess, defensive intensity, and all-around skillset helped her dominate the WNBA and USA basketball for more than a decade.
Overview
Sheryl Swoopes burst onto the national scene as a collegiate star at Texas Tech, leading the Lady Raiders to the 1993 NCAA championship. She was the first player signed by the WNBA for its inaugural 1997 season, quickly becoming the face of the fledgling league. Over her 12-year WNBA career, primarily with the Houston Comets, Swoopes established herself as one of the most dominant forces the league has ever seen.
Career Snapshot
Swoopes spent 11 seasons with the Houston Comets from 1997-2007, leading the team to the first four WNBA championships. She was named league MVP three times (2000, 2002, 2005) and Defensive Player of the Year three times (2000, 2002, 2003). Swoopes is the only player in WNBA history to win both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season, accomplishing the feat twice.
Playing Style
An explosive 6'0" wing player, Swoopes possessed a rare combination of offensive firepower and lockdown defensive ability. She had a lightning-quick first step and elite body control that allowed her to blow by defenders and finish acrobatically at the rim. Swoopes was also a deadly outside shooter, with deep range that stretched defences. On the other end, her long arms, lateral quickness, and competitive fire made her one of the league's premier perimeter defenders.
Why Sheryl Swoopes is on our list
Swoopes' impact on women's basketball is nearly unparalleled. She was the Michael Jordan of the women's game - an uber-athletic, ultra-competitive superstar who could dominate on both ends of the court. Swoopes helped put the WNBA on the map as its first true superstar, paving the way for future generations. Her three MVP awards, four championships, and consistent excellence over a long career solidify her place among the most dominant players in league history.
Five Fast Facts
- First player to have a Nike basketball shoe named after her (Air Swoopes)
- Scored NCAA championship game record 47 points in 1993 title game
- Three-time Olympic gold medalist (1996, 2000, 2004)
- One of first high-profile team sport athletes to publicly come out as gay in 2005
- Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016
Career Highlights Timeline
1993: Led Texas Tech to NCAA championship, named NCAA Tournament MOP
1997: First player signed by WNBA, wins first championship with Houston Comets
2000: Wins WNBA MVP, Defensive Player of Year, and second Olympic gold medal
2002: Captures second WNBA MVP and Defensive Player of Year awards
2005: Claims third WNBA MVP award, leads league in scoring
2011: Named one of WNBA's Top 15 Players of All Time
2016: Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Sheryl Swoopes' combination of individual accolades, team success, and lasting impact on the sport cement her legacy as one of the most dominant and influential players in WNBA history. Her fierce competitiveness and ability to excel on both ends of the court set a new standard for excellence in women's basketball.
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