BREAKING: Dawn Staley Named #1 GOAT in Bleacher Report’s Top 100 WNBA Players of All Time
In a groundbreaking and somewhat shocking announcement, Bleacher Report has named Dawn Staley as the number one greatest of all time (GOAT) in their recently released list of the Top 100 WNBA Players of All Time. While many expected legends like Diana Taurasi, Lisa Leslie, or Tamika Catchings to top the list, the crowning of Staley marks a powerful recognition of not just raw statistics, but transformative impact.
To say this shook the basketball world would be an understatement. For years, Staley has been respected as a foundational figure in women’s basketball, but few anticipated she would be ranked above players with longer WNBA playing careers or more traditional accolades in the league. This choice signals a shift in how greatness is being defined—less about sheer numbers, and more about legacy, leadership, and cultural significance.
Dawn Staley’s WNBA playing career began in 1999 when she joined the Charlotte Sting after a stellar college and international resume. While her WNBA numbers were solid—she was a six-time All-Star and among the league’s top assist leaders—she wasn’t always viewed as the statistical juggernaut of her generation. What set Staley apart, however, was her unmatched court vision, leadership, and ability to elevate every team and player around her.
Even more shocking is that this GOAT honor likely takes into account her coaching achievements, something rarely considered in player rankings. As the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Staley built a dynasty, leading her team to multiple national championships and transforming the program into a powerhouse. Her coaching career is filled with dominance, innovation, and a fierce commitment to empowering Black women in sports—qualities that transcend the stat sheet.
Bleacher Report’s list seems to embrace a broader definition of greatness. In choosing Staley, the outlet may be making a statement that influence, integrity, and leadership matter just as much—if not more—than points per game or MVP awards. Staley’s legacy as a trailblazer, a mentor, and a builder of empires both on and off the court is hard to match.
Social media has exploded with mixed reactions. Many fans and players, past and present, have expressed overwhelming support, calling the recognition “long overdue.” Others are raising eyebrows, arguing that while Staley’s greatness is undeniable, ranking her above players who dominated the league statistically is controversial.
But perhaps that’s the point. Staley’s number one placement challenges the status quo. It forces the basketball world to reevaluate what “GOAT” truly means. Is it the most points? The most titles? Or is it the deepest impact?
Whatever the criteria, one thing is clear: Dawn Staley has redefined the game at every level. From the streets of Philadelphia to Olympic podiums, from WNBA hardwood to NCAA championships, she has built a legacy that goes far beyond stats—one that inspires generations and now, officially, puts her at the very top.
Dawn Staley isn’t just a player. She’s a movement. And now, she’s the GOAT.
