6
Nov
5 mins
WNBA's Greatest Players in History: Tamika Catchings
Tamika Catchings poses for a portrait at the 2016 Team USA Media Summit at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 9, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California. Photo: Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images
Tamika Catchings is five-time DPOY and Olympic Gold Medalist
- 2011 WNBA Most Valuable Player
- 10-time WNBA All-Star
- 5-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year
Tamika Catchings is widely considered one of the greatest and most decorated players in WNBA history, known for her tenacious defence and all-around excellence.
Overview
Tamika Catchings played her entire 15-year WNBA career with the Indiana Fever from 2002-2016. A 10-time All-Star and 7-time All-WNBA First Team selection, Catchings established herself as one of the most dominant two-way players the league has ever seen. Her combination of scoring, rebounding, playmaking and elite defence made her a uniquely versatile threat.
Career Snapshot
Catchings was drafted 3rd overall by the Indiana Fever in 2001 but missed her rookie season due to injury. She burst onto the scene in 2002, winning Rookie of the Year while averaging 18.6 points, 8.6 rebounds and 2.9 steals per game. This set the tone for a career of statistical dominance across multiple categories.
Over her 15 seasons, Catchings averaged 16.1 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.4 steals per game. She led the league in steals a record 8 times and retired as the WNBA's all-time leader in steals, free throws made, and rebounds. Catchings led the Fever to their only championship in 2012, earning Finals MVP honours.
Playing Style
Catchings was the consummate two-way player, able to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Offensively, she was a versatile scorer who could drive to the basket, hit mid-range jumpers and knock down threes. Her passing and court vision allowed her to create for teammates as well.
Defensively, Catchings was in a class of her own. Her combination of strength, quickness and anticipation made her a nightmare for opponents. She could lock down perimeter players and battle in the post, often guarding multiple positions in a single game. Her 5 Defensive Player of the Year awards are tied for the most in WNBA history.
Why Catchings is on our list
Catchings' impact went far beyond her impressive statistics. Her relentless hustle, leadership and competitive fire set the tone for the Fever franchise for 15 years. She elevated her game in the playoffs, retiring as the WNBA's all-time leader in postseason points, rebounds and steals.
A member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Catchings is universally regarded as one of the greatest and most complete players in WNBA history. Her combination of individual excellence, team success and longevity make her an easy choice as one of the most dominant players the league has ever seen.
Five Fast Facts
- Won 4 Olympic gold medals with Team USA (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016)
- Named to the WNBA's 10th, 15th, 20th and 25th Anniversary Teams
- Recorded the first known quintuple-double in basketball history in high school
- Founded the Catch the Stars Foundation in 2004 to empower youth
- Played her entire 15-year WNBA career with the Indiana Fever
Career Highlights Timeline
2002: Named WNBA Rookie of the Year
2005: Wins first of 5 Defensive Player of the Year awards
2009: Leads Fever to first WNBA Finals appearance
2011: Named WNBA Most Valuable Player
2012: Wins WNBA championship and Finals MVP
2016: Retires as WNBA's all-time leader in steals and free throws made
Tamika Catchings' unparalleled combination of individual excellence, team success and consistent dominance on both ends of the court solidifies her legacy as one of the greatest players in WNBA history. Her impact on the game extended far beyond the court, making her a true icon of women's basketball.
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