Who Is The Tallest Woman In The WNBA? Uncovering The Giants Of The Court
Have you ever watched a WNBA game and just marveled at the sheer height of some of the players? It's pretty amazing, isn't it? When you see these athletes, you might naturally wonder, like, who stands out the most? People often ask, "Who is the tallest woman in the WNBA?" because it's a fascinating question, and their height truly makes a big difference on the court. It shapes how they play, how teams strategize, and just how exciting the game becomes, you know?
Finding out who holds that particular title is more than just knowing a fun fact, it’s about understanding the unique physical advantages some players bring to professional basketball. These athletes, very tall individuals, are not just tall for the sake of it; their stature is a crucial part of their athletic identity and their impact on the game. It’s a topic that really gets fans talking, and for good reason, too, it’s a big deal.
This article will take a closer look at the current tallest player in the WNBA, explore her background, and consider how her height influences her game. We’ll also touch on some of the other very tall players who have graced the league, and just why being a towering presence on the basketball court is such a big advantage. It’s quite a story, really, how these players use their natural gifts.
Table of Contents
- The Current Towering Presence in the WNBA
- A Look Back: The Tallest WNBA Player Ever
- Why Height Is a Game-Changer in the WNBA
- Other Notable Tall Players Who Made Their Mark
- Frequently Asked Questions About WNBA Heights
- The Future of Tall Talent in the WNBA
The Current Towering Presence in the WNBA
When you think about the tallest players in the WNBA today, one name very often comes to mind right away: Brittney Griner. She has been a dominant force in the league for quite some time now, and her height is a big part of what makes her such an effective player. Griner, who plays for the Phoenix Mercury, stands at an impressive 6 feet 9 inches tall, which is truly remarkable for any athlete, let alone a basketball player.
Her height, you know, gives her a distinct advantage in so many aspects of the game. From blocking shots to grabbing rebounds, and even scoring close to the basket, her reach and stature are incredibly valuable. It’s not just about being tall, though; it’s how she uses that height with her skill set that truly sets her apart. She's a very skilled athlete, and that's clear to see.
She has been a consistent presence in the WNBA since being drafted first overall in 2013, and her journey has been quite something. Her height is often the first thing people notice, but her overall game, her dedication, and her impact on her team are what really define her career. It’s a pretty compelling story, actually, her whole journey.
Biography and Background
Brittney Griner was born in Houston, Texas, and her path to becoming a professional basketball player started early. She was always taller than most of her peers, which, as you can imagine, made her stand out on the basketball court even in her younger years. She went to Nimitz High School, where she became a national sensation because of her incredible talent and, yes, her height. She was just amazing to watch, apparently.
After high school, she went to Baylor University, where she continued to break records and dominate college basketball. Her time at Baylor was legendary, really, with her leading the team to a national championship in 2012. Her ability to block shots and score inside was almost unmatched at that level. It was pretty clear, even then, that she was destined for big things in the professional league.
Her transition to the WNBA was seamless, more or less, and she quickly established herself as one of the league’s premier players. Her journey has had its challenges, like any athlete's, but her resilience and talent have always shone through. She’s a pretty inspiring figure for many people, you know, for a lot of reasons.
Playing Style and Court Impact
Griner’s playing style is very much defined by her height, but it’s also about her athleticism and touch around the rim. She’s a dominant force on defense, obviously, leading the league in blocks multiple times. Her ability to alter shots, even when she doesn’t get a block, makes opponents think twice about driving to the basket. It’s a huge deterrent, actually, for other teams.
On offense, she’s a very efficient scorer in the paint. She has a soft touch with her hook shot and can finish strong through contact. Her height allows her to shoot over most defenders with relative ease, making her a consistent scoring threat. She also has a decent mid-range game, which just adds another layer to her offensive arsenal. She’s a very complete player in that regard.
Beyond her individual statistics, Griner’s presence on the court opens up opportunities for her teammates. Opposing defenses often have to double-team her, which leaves other players open for shots or drives. This, in a way, creates a ripple effect for her team’s offense, making everyone around her better. It’s a pretty big deal, her overall impact.
Personal Details: Brittney Griner
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Brittney Yevette Griner |
| Height | 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m) |
| Born | October 18, 1990 (age 33 as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Houston, Texas, USA |
| Position | Center |
| WNBA Team | Phoenix Mercury |
| Draft Year | 2013 (1st overall) |
| College | Baylor University |
A Look Back: The Tallest WNBA Player Ever
While Brittney Griner is the tallest active player, the title of the tallest woman to ever play in the WNBA belongs to the late Margo Dydek. Dydek, who was from Poland, stood at an incredible 7 feet 2 inches tall. She played in the WNBA from 1998 to 2007, making a significant impact during her time in the league. She was truly a towering figure, you know, in every sense of the word.
Dydek played for several teams, including the Utah Starzz, San Antonio Silver Stars, Connecticut Sun, and Los Angeles Sparks. Her height made her an immediate defensive presence, and she remains the WNBA’s all-time leader in blocks. Her ability to protect the rim was simply unmatched during her era. It was pretty amazing to watch her play, honestly.
Her career was marked by consistent defensive excellence and a unique offensive game that utilized her immense height. She was a fan favorite and a respected figure in the league, known for her gentle demeanor off the court despite her formidable presence on it. She was, in a way, a trailblazer for very tall players.
Her Lasting Legacy
Margo Dydek’s legacy in the WNBA goes beyond her impressive statistics. She showed the league just how impactful a truly dominant, very tall center could be. Her defensive prowess set a standard that few players have been able to reach since. She made every shot near the basket a challenge for opponents, and that’s a pretty powerful thing to do in basketball.
She also helped pave the way for future tall players, demonstrating that height, combined with skill and dedication, could lead to a very successful professional career. Her impact is still felt today when coaches look for players who can control the paint. She was, you know, a true pioneer in that sense.
Her passing in 2011 was a sad moment for the basketball community, but her memory and her records continue to stand tall in the WNBA history books. She’s a reminder that sometimes, the biggest impacts come from the biggest people, in a way, literally and figuratively. She really left her mark, that's for sure.
Why Height Is a Game-Changer in the WNBA
In basketball, height is often seen as a significant advantage, and for good reason. For players in the WNBA, being very tall can be a game-changer in multiple ways, influencing both individual performance and team strategy. It’s not just about reaching the basket easily; it’s about control, dominance, and creating opportunities for others. So, it's a very big deal, really.
First off, think about defense. A tall player can simply cover more ground in the paint, making it incredibly difficult for opponents to score close to the basket. Their long arms can disrupt passing lanes, contest shots, and block attempts with greater ease. This defensive presence can completely alter an opposing team's offensive game plan, forcing them to take less efficient shots from further out. It’s a pretty powerful tool to have on your side.
Then there’s rebounding. Taller players naturally have an easier time grabbing rebounds, both on offense and defense. This means more second-chance points for their team and fewer opportunities for the opponent. Controlling the boards is a fundamental aspect of winning basketball games, and height definitely helps with that. It’s a very tangible benefit, you know.
On offense, height provides a distinct advantage for scoring near the basket. Post players who are very tall can shoot over smaller defenders, making their shots incredibly difficult to block. They can also establish deep post position, drawing fouls and creating easy scoring opportunities. This kind of interior scoring is a crucial part of a balanced offense, and it's something tall players truly excel at. It's a pretty big part of their game.
Beyond individual skills, a very tall player can also influence the flow of the game by drawing attention from the defense. When a dominant tall player is on the court, opposing teams often have to dedicate multiple defenders to stop her, which, in turn, leaves other players open. This creates space and scoring chances for teammates, making the entire offense more effective. It's a bit like a magnet, drawing defenders in.
However, it’s not just about height alone. Tall players also need to be agile, have good footwork, and possess strong basketball skills to truly maximize their advantage. A very tall player who cannot move well or handle the ball effectively might struggle. It’s the combination of exceptional height with refined basketball talent that creates a truly dominant force on the court. That’s why players like Griner and Dydek stood out so much, really.
The WNBA, like other professional basketball leagues, continues to feature players who are incredibly tall, and they often become some of the most impactful players in the game. Their unique physical gifts, when paired with dedication and skill, make for some truly exciting basketball. It’s pretty cool to see, actually, how they use their stature.
Other Notable Tall Players Who Made Their Mark
While Brittney Griner and Margo Dydek stand out as the tallest, the WNBA has seen many other players who are very tall and have made significant contributions to the league. These athletes, you know, often become foundational pieces for their teams, providing a strong presence in the paint and influencing games in a major way. Their height, obviously, is a big part of their identity on the court.
Consider players like Liz Cambage, who, at 6 feet 8 inches, has been a dominant scorer and rebounder throughout her career. Her athleticism combined with her height made her a formidable opponent for any team. She could score in various ways, and her defensive presence was always felt. She was a very strong player, too, in many respects.
Then there's Sylvia Fowles, another powerful center who stands at 6 feet 6 inches. While not as tall as Griner or Dydek, Fowles used her size, strength, and incredible skill to become one of the most decorated players in WNBA history. She’s a multiple-time MVP and champion, and her ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor was legendary. She was, in a way, a force of nature.
Even current players like Teaira McCowan, at 6 feet 7 inches, continue the tradition of very tall centers making a big impact. McCowan is known for her rebounding and defensive abilities, providing a strong anchor for her team. These players show that while being the absolute tallest is one thing, being significantly tall and skilled is also incredibly valuable. It’s a pretty big advantage, you know, to have that kind of height.
These athletes, in a way, demonstrate the consistent need for height in professional basketball. Teams are always looking for players who can protect the rim, grab rebounds, and score efficiently inside. The physical demands of the game often favor those with a greater reach and stronger presence in the paint. It’s just how the game works, basically.
The WNBA has always been a league that showcases incredible talent, and a big part of that talent comes from its very tall players. They bring a unique dimension to the game, creating memorable moments and shaping the outcomes of many contests. It’s pretty cool to see how they use their gifts, honestly.
Frequently Asked Questions About WNBA Heights
People often have a lot of questions about player heights in the WNBA, and it's understandable why. It's a fascinating aspect of the game, and these athletes are truly exceptional. Here are some common questions folks ask, which might help clarify things for you.
Is Brittney Griner the tallest WNBA player ever?
No, she is not the tallest WNBA player ever. While Brittney Griner is currently the tallest active player in the WNBA at 6 feet 9 inches, the record for the tallest player in WNBA history belongs to Margo Dydek, who stood at an incredible 7 feet 2 inches. Dydek played in the league from 1998 to 2007, and she still holds the all-time record for blocks. So, Griner is the tallest now, but not historically.
How much does height matter in the WNBA?
Height matters a lot in the WNBA, as it does in most professional basketball leagues. Taller players have significant advantages in areas like shot blocking, rebounding, and scoring close to the basket. Their presence can alter opposing team strategies and open up opportunities for teammates. However, height alone isn't enough; players also need skill, agility, and basketball IQ to be truly effective. It’s a pretty big piece of the puzzle, but not the only one.
Are there any WNBA players taller than 7 feet?
Yes, there has been one WNBA player who was taller than 7 feet: Margo Dydek, who stood at 7 feet 2 inches. She is the only player in the league's history to have reached that height. Currently, there are no active players who are 7 feet tall or taller. Brittney Griner, at 6 feet 9 inches, is the closest to that mark among current players. So, it's pretty rare, you know, to see someone that tall.
The Future of Tall Talent in the WNBA
The WNBA continues to evolve, and with each passing season, new talent emerges, some of it very tall indeed. The league will always value players who can control the paint, protect the rim, and provide a strong interior presence. So, it's pretty clear that tall players will continue to be a vital part of team rosters. They bring a unique element to the game, after all.
As the game becomes more global, we might see even more diverse talent, including players from different parts of the world who bring exceptional height and skill. The development of young players in various leagues and college programs around the globe means that the pool of potential WNBA talent is always growing. It’s an exciting time, really, for basketball.
The WNBA’s commitment to showcasing the best female basketball players in the world means that fans will always get to witness incredible athleticism and talent, including those remarkable athletes who tower over their competition. It's something to look forward to, for sure. You can learn more about WNBA player statistics on our site, and also find out about the history of women's basketball here. For official league information, you might check out the WNBA's official website, too.
10 Tallest Female Basketball Players in the History of WNBA
10 Tallest Female Basketball Players in the History of WNBA
10 Tallest Female Basketball Players in the History of WNBA
