WNBA's Greatest Players in History: Tina Thompson

• First overall draft pick in inaugural WNBA season
• 4-time WNBA champion with Houston Comets dynasty
• 9-time WNBA All-Star and former all-time leading scorer

Tina Thompson was a pioneering force in women's basketball, helping establish the WNBA as one of its first superstars and most accomplished players over a legendary 17-year career.

Overview

Tina Thompson made an immediate impact as the #1 overall pick in the WNBA's first college draft in 1997, joining the Houston Comets and helping lead them to four consecutive championships from 1997-2000. The 6'2" forward was one of the league's most prolific scorers and rebounders throughout her career, earning nine All-Star selections and eight All-WNBA team honours.

Thompson's combination of size, skill and competitive fire made her nearly impossible to stop. She could dominate in the post, but also had a reliable outside shot, making her a matchup nightmare. Her physical play and toughness set the tone for her teams.

Career snapshot

After starring at USC in college, Thompson spent her first 12 WNBA seasons with the Houston Comets, forming a "Big Three" with Sheryl Swoopes and Cynthia Cooper that won four straight titles. She later played for the Los Angeles Sparks and Seattle Storm before retiring in 2013 as the league's all-time leading scorer at the time with 7,488 points (now ranked 3rd all-time).

Thompson was renowned for her consistency and longevity, averaging 15.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game over her career. She ranks in the top 10 all-time in several major statistical categories including points, rebounds, blocks, and games played. Her #7 jersey was retired by the now-defunct Comets franchise.

Playing style

Thompson was the prototype of the modern "stretch four" - a power forward with perimeter shooting skills. Her ability to score from anywhere on the court made her extremely difficult to defend. She had a smooth shooting stroke and could knock down three-pointers with ease, but was also strong enough to battle in the paint for rebounds and points.

Her competitiveness and work ethic were legendary. Thompson was known for arriving hours early to practice to work on her shot. She played through injuries and pregnancies, barely missing any games over her long career. Her mental and physical toughness set her apart.

Why Tina Thompson is on our list

Thompson's on-court accomplishments alone merit inclusion among the WNBA's all-time greats - the championships, scoring records, and consistent excellence over nearly two decades. But her impact goes beyond the numbers. As one of the league's original stars, she helped establish the WNBA's credibility and popularity in its early years.

Her longevity and ability to evolve her game as she aged was remarkable. Thompson remained an All-Star caliber player well into her 30s, adapting her style as her athleticism declined. She was also a pioneer as one of the first WNBA players to return to play after having a child during her career.

Thompson's legacy as a fierce competitor, clutch performer, and consummate professional made her one of the most respected players of her era. She paved the way for future generations of versatile forwards in the women's game.

Five Fast Facts

1. First player selected in inaugural WNBA college draft in 1997
2. Won 4 consecutive WNBA titles with Houston Comets from 1997-2000
3. 9-time WNBA All-Star and 8-time All-WNBA selection
4. Retired in 2013 as WNBA's all-time leading scorer (7,488 points)
5. Two-time Olympic gold medalist (2004, 2008) with Team USA

Career Highlights Timeline

1997: Selected #1 overall in first WNBA draft, wins championship with Houston

1998: Wins second straight WNBA title, named to All-WNBA First Team

1999: Captures third consecutive championship, makes first All-Star team

2000: Completes "four-peat" with Comets, wins All-Star Game MVP

2004: Leads league in scoring (20.0 ppg), wins Olympic gold medal

2008: Becomes WNBA's all-time leading scorer, wins second Olympic gold

2009: Signs with hometown Los Angeles Sparks as free agent

2013: Plays final WNBA season with Seattle Storm at age 38

2018: Inducted into Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Thompson's impact on women's basketball stretched far beyond her WNBA career. She was a trailblazer who helped grow the league from its inception and inspired countless young players with her skill, competitiveness and professionalism. Her place among the most dominant and influential players in WNBA history is secure.

‍