Get ready for a thrilling journey through the history of women's college basketball! We're celebrating the 50th anniversary of the women's basketball poll, and it's time to uncover the greatest players of all time. But here's the catch: selecting these legends is no easy feat, as even the experts are stumped!
The Quest for the Greatest: A Challenging Task
Imagine trying to choose the best players from an era filled with incredible talent. That's exactly what college basketball experts faced when asked to pick the greatest women's players during the poll era. It seemed simple at first, but as they delved deeper, the task became increasingly tricky.
USC's Cheryl Miller and UConn's Diana Taurasi were easy picks, but narrowing down the list further was a real head-scratcher. Many talented players, including those who later excelled professionally, had to be left off.
The AP's Top 25 List: A Debate-Sparking Selection
In honor of the poll's golden anniversary, The Associated Press (AP) compiled a list of the greatest players since 1976. And boy, did it stir up some heated discussions! The AP's Top 25 rankings left voters with a tough decision, prompting intense debates and second-guessing.
Rebecca Lobo, a former UConn star and NCAA champion, summed up the challenge: "Nearly impossible... I'm looking at this list, and it's all no-brainers. But then, there are just too many no-brainers for the available slots!"
The voting panel, consisting of former players and AP sportswriters, had to consider only the athletes' college careers. However, they also had the discretion to factor in championship wins, record-breaking stats, and the ability to lead their teams to victory.
Frontcourt Dominance: Miller, Stewart, and Parker
Cheryl Miller, Breanna Stewart, and Candace Parker formed an unstoppable frontcourt trio. Miller, an original NCAA great, led USC to consecutive championships in 1983-84. Stewart dominated at UConn, winning four NCAA titles and earning Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four four times. Parker guided Tennessee to back-to-back titles in 2007-08.
"I grew up watching Cheryl Miller," Parker said. "She'd be my number one. My dad always wanted me to be like her. I'm honored to be on this list with her."
The Guards: Taurasi and Clark
Diana Taurasi and Caitlin Clark were the dynamic duo in the backcourt. Taurasi helped UConn win three national championships, carrying the team to the last two on her own during her junior and senior seasons. Clark led Iowa to consecutive NCAA championship game appearances and set the career scoring record for any Division I player, male or female.
"Being named an AP All-American is an incredible honor," Clark said. "It's exciting to think about playing alongside these legends."
The Second Team: Bird, Staley, and More
The second team featured UConn's Sue Bird and Virginia's Dawn Staley in the backcourt. Bird helped UConn win championships in 2000 and 2002, while Staley, the only women's player to win Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four on a losing team, is now the coach at South Carolina.
The frontcourt of the second team included Chamique Holdsclaw (Lady Vols), Maya Moore (UConn), and Lusia Harris (Delta State). Holdsclaw was a three-time NCAA champion, while Moore was part of UConn's dynasty that won 89 consecutive games. Harris led Delta State to three AIAW titles in the 1970s and was the tournament MVP each year.
"I'd love to see these two teams go head-to-head," said UConn coach Geno Auriemma.
Auriemma had four former players on the first two teams, but he also had an impressive bench, including Ann Meyers Drysdale (UCLA), Lynette Woodard (Kansas), Sheryl Swoopes (Texas Tech), Lisa Leslie (USC), Brittney Griner (Baylor), and A'ja Wilson (South Carolina).
"Players' greatness transcends generations," said Meyers Drysdale. "There are so many incredible players who won't make the list, but that's the nature of these debates."
So, who do you think deserves a spot on this prestigious list? Join the discussion and share your thoughts on these basketball legends!
