From UConn to WNBA Legends: The Journey of Taurasi, Stewart, Bird, and More
Explore the incredible careers of WNBA stars who began their journey at UConn, including Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird, and Breanna Stewart, and their impact on women's basketball.
The Legacy of UConn Players in the WNBA
Diana Taurasi announced her retirement from the WNBA in February 2025, marking the end of an era. With a career spanning 20 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, Taurasi's accolades are unparalleled. She is a five-time WNBA scoring champion, a 14-time All-WNBA selection, and the league's all-time leading scorer. Her MVP and Finals MVP awards in 2009 and 2014 solidify her status as one of the greatest players in WNBA history. Taurasi's journey began at UConn, where she was a three-time national champion and two-time NCAA tournament Most Outstanding Player.
Other UConn Legends in the WNBA
Sue Bird, another UConn alum, has left an indelible mark on the WNBA. A two-time national champion and the 2002 women's college basketball player of the year, Bird was the No. 1 pick in the 2002 WNBA draft by the Seattle Storm. She is a 13-time WNBA All-Star, a four-time WNBA champion, and the all-time assists leader in WNBA history.
Breanna Stewart continues to build her legacy with the Seattle Storm, where she was the No. 1 pick in the 2016 WNBA draft. A four-time national champion and four-time NCAA tournament Most Outstanding Player at UConn, Stewart has already achieved two WNBA MVP awards and three WNBA championships in her career.
Maya Moore, yet another UConn standout, was the No. 1 pick in the 2011 WNBA draft by the Minnesota Lynx. With two national titles at UConn and a 2014 WNBA MVP award, Moore's contributions to the Lynx were pivotal in their four WNBA championships.
TIna Charles and Swin Cash: More UConn Stars Shine
Tina Charles, a two-time national champion and the 2010 women's college basketball player of the year, was the No. 1 pick in the 2010 WNBA draft by the Connecticut Sun. She is the all-time leading rebounder in WNBA history and won the 2012 WNBA MVP award.
Swin Cash was a key player at UConn before being selected by the Detroit Shock as the No. 2 pick in the 2002 WNBA draft. A two-time national champion and the 2002 NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, Cash went on to become a four-time WNBA All-Star and three-time WNBA champion.
Conclusion
The transition from UConn to the WNBA has been seamless for these legends, each leaving a lasting impact on the league. Their achievements not only highlight their individual brilliance but also underscore the role of UConn as a powerhouse in developing women's basketball talent.
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