The WNBA owes much of its foundation and early success to the pioneering efforts of three legendary athletes: Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, and Tina Thompson. As the league’s first superstars, they were not only basketball players but also trailblazers who shaped the future of the league, challenged societal norms, and became powerful symbols of empowerment for women and girls everywhere. From Swoopes’ role as the league’s first marquee player to Leslie’s legacy as a global ambassador for women’s sports and Thompson’s quiet but steadfast dominance, their contributions went far beyond what could be measured in points and championships.
Their impact transcended basketball, helping to foster the growth of women’s sports, challenge stereotypes, and inspire countless young athletes to pursue their dreams, showing them that their talent and passion could take them to heights once thought unimaginable. Swoopes was the first player ever to sign with the WNBA, making her an integral part of the league’s foundation. She became the league’s first marquee star, embodying its aspirations—dynamic, athletic, and unrelenting. Swoopes’ game was defined by her exceptional defensive skills, athleticism, and versatility, and she earned three WNBA MVP awards (2000, 2002, and 2005) along with four WNBA championships with the Houston Comets.
Not only was Swoopes a cornerstone player of the league, she served as a model of excellence and professionalism, impacting every facet of the game. Similarly, Leslie, another foundational figure in the WNBA, extended her influence far beyond her on-court success. As one of the most decorated athletes in women’s basketball history, Leslie won four Olympic gold medals, two WNBA MVP awards, and two WNBA championships with the Los Angeles Sparks. In 2002, she made headlines as the first player in WNBA history to dunk during a game, significantly raising the league’s visibility and altering public perceptions of women’s athleticism.
Utilizing a combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ, Leslie dominated the court while also emerging as a global ambassador for women’s sports, making appearances on national television and advocating for women’s rights in sports. On the other hand, Thompson’s consistency, work ethic, and leadership helped to define the WNBA during its early years. A member of the Houston Comets, she won four WNBA championships and was known for her versatility—capable of scoring both inside and from the perimeter. Thompson’s career averaged over 15 points per game, and her clutch performances and basketball IQ earned her great respect among her peers.
With nearly two decades in the WNBA, Thompson was one of the first athletes to demonstrate that a long and successful career was not only possible but achievable. After retiring, she transitioned into coaching and mentoring, ensuring that her legacy would influence future generations. Together, this trio broke down barriers in a male-dominated sports environment, proving that women could compete at elite levels and garner recognition for their skills and talent. Their courage in confronting societal expectations for women and athletes has paved the way for greater recognition of women’s sports, both in the U.S. and internationally.
The legacies of Swoopes, Leslie, and Thompson are felt not only in basketball history but also in the cultural shifts they inspired, advocating for greater recognition of women’s sports and creating pathways for future generations of athletes.
