As the Associated Press celebrates the 50th anniversary of its women’s basketball poll, a distinguished panel of experts has unveiled its selections for the greatest players in college history, sparking both agreement and lively debate among fans. This exclusive list, prioritizing college career achievements, highlights legendary figures who have shaped the sport, from championship architects to record-breaking scorers.
The landscape of women’s college basketball has been forever changed by phenomenal athletes whose skills, leadership, and indelible moments left lasting legacies. In a fitting tribute to the 50th anniversary of its women’s basketball poll, the Associated Press convened a panel of former players and sportswriters to identify the greatest players of this era. This ambitious task, described by UConn standout and NCAA champion Rebecca Lobo as “nearly impossible,” mandated a focus solely on collegiate achievements, excluding professional careers from consideration. Factors such as championship pedigree, statistical records, and the sheer ability to elevate a team were all on the table, setting the stage for an engaging and undoubtedly contentious discussion among enthusiasts.
The Unanimous Picks and First Team Selections
While the process of narrowing down an extensive list of talent was fraught with difficulty, some names emerged as “no-brainers.” Headlining the first team’s frontcourt are none other than Cheryl Miller of USC, Breanna Stewart of UConn, and Candace Parker of Tennessee. These three forwards epitomized dominance during their respective eras, each leading their teams to national glory. Miller, a trailblazer in women’s basketball, guided the Trojans to consecutive championships in 1983 and 1984. Parker famously led Tennessee to back-to-back NCAA titles in 2007 and 2008, showcasing her unparalleled versatility. Stewart, a generational talent, achieved an unprecedented feat at UConn, winning four NCAA championships and earning the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four award all four years, a record that underscores her consistent impact as recognized by ESPN.
The guard positions for the first team are equally star-studded, featuring UConn’s Diana Taurasi and Iowa’s phenomenon, Caitlin Clark. Taurasi’s collegiate career included leading UConn to three national championships, notably carrying her team to the final two almost single-handedly during her junior and senior seasons. Clark, a more recent sensation, commanded national attention during her time at Iowa, leading the Hawkeyes to consecutive NCAA championship game appearances. Her signature logo 3-pointers and record-breaking career scoring, which surpassed all Division I women’s and men’s basketball players, significantly elevated the sport’s profile. As Clark herself noted, “It means a lot to be named to this all-time list alongside players I looked up to.”
Second Team and Respected Reserves
The second team continues to showcase an incredible array of talent. In the backcourt, UConn’s Sue Bird, a two-time NCAA champion (2000, 2002), joins Virginia’s Dawn Staley. Staley, now a celebrated coach at South Carolina, uniquely earned the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four award on a losing team, a testament to her individual brilliance. The second team frontcourt features Tennessee’s Chamique Holdsclaw, a three-time NCAA champion and two-time MOP, UConn’s Maya Moore, who contributed to the Huskies’ then-record 89-game winning streak and consecutive titles in 2009-10, and Lusia Harris of Delta State, a force in the mid-1970s who led her team to three AIAW titles and was MVP each year.
Beyond the top two teams, the depth of talent necessitated a strong group of reserves. This distinguished list includes Ann Meyers Drysdale (UCLA), Lynette Woodard (Kansas), Sheryl Swoopes (Texas Tech), Lisa Leslie (USC), Brittney Griner (Baylor), and A’ja Wilson (South Carolina). These athletes, each legendary in their own right, underscore the challenge faced by the voting panel. For example, Lisa Leslie, a pivotal figure for USC and later the WNBA’s first player to dunk in an official game, was a dominant collegiate presence from 1990-1994, helping to lay the groundwork for her iconic professional career.
A Fan Community Perspective: Debating Across Eras
The announcement of such a definitive list invariably ignites passionate discussions within the fan community. Questions of “who could have played where” and “how different eras compare” are central to the discourse. Ann Meyers Drysdale, a panel member herself, acknowledged this sentiment: “When you’re great in one generation, you’re going to be great in any generation.” This perspective validates the inclusion of players like Ayoka Lee of Kansas State, who made a significant leap in the 2021-22 midseason rankings, or Aliyah Boston of South Carolina, a unanimous No. 1 pick in updated player rankings for her dominant defense and improved scoring.
The modern game continues to see players pushing boundaries. Nalyssa Smith of Baylor, lauded by her coach Nicki Collen as “the best player in the country” (prior to the 2021-22 season), showcased a versatile game with an expanding perimeter presence. Likewise, Naz Hillmon of Michigan and Rhyne Howard of Kentucky, both senior stars in 2021-22, were actively developing their games for the professional level, with Hillmon expanding her range and Howard focusing on leadership. These contemporary stars embody the evolving skill sets that contribute to the ongoing debate about greatness.
The Enduring Legacy of Collegiate Excellence
Ultimately, the AP’s selections serve not just as a ranking, but as a celebration of the enduring impact of these athletes. From the fundamental dominance of a traditional post player like Ayoka Lee, who averaged 24.2 ppg and 10.8 rpg in 2021-22, to the dynamic playmaking of guards like Paige Bueckers, who topped preseason lists before injury, the list reflects a rich history of talent. Each player on this roster, whether first team, second team, or reserve, contributed significantly to the growth and excitement of women’s college basketball. The conversation about the greatest will continue, fueled by the passion of fans and the remarkable achievements of these collegiate legends, as recognized by the Associated Press.
