Sue Bird, Sylvia Fowles, and Maya Moore: The Unstoppable Trio Dominating the Naismith Hall of Fame 2025 Class

The Greatest Women's Basketball Class in Hall of Fame History

On Saturday, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced its 2025 class, featuring three of the most iconic players in WNBA history: Sue Bird, Sylvia Fowles, and Maya Moore. This marks the first time three women have been inducted as players in the same class, solidifying their status as legends of the game.

Sue Bird: The Ultimate Floor General

• Teams: UConn (1998-2002), Seattle Storm (2002-22)
• Achievements:
  • 4× WNBA Champion (2004, 2010, 2018, 2020)
  • All-time WNBA assists leader (3,114)
  • 5× Olympic Gold Medalist (2004-2021)
  • 13× WNBA All-Star

Bird’s unmatched longevity and playmaking brilliance redefined the point guard position. From leading UConn to two NCAA titles to becoming the face of the Seattle Storm, her impact on the game is immeasurable.

Sylvia Fowles: The Defensive Titan

• Teams: LSU (2004-08), Chicago Sky (2008-14), Minnesota Lynx (2015-22)
• Achievements:
  • 2× WNBA Champion (2015, 2017)
  • 4× Defensive Player of the Year
  • 2017 WNBA MVP
  • All-time WNBA rebounding leader (4,006)

Fowles was a dominant force in the paint, excelling as the most feared defensive anchor in league history. Her move to the Minnesota Lynx cemented her legacy, earning two Finals MVPs and multiple All-WNBA honors.

Maya Moore: The Champion Who Changed the Game On and Off the Court

• Teams: UConn (2007-11), Minnesota Lynx (2011-18)
• Achievements:
  • 4× WNBA Champion (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017)
  • 2014 WNBA MVP
  • 6× All-WNBA First Team
  • 2× Olympic Gold Medalist (2012, 2016)

Moore’s short but illustrious career was defined by winning at every level. Whether leading UConn to back-to-back titles or powering the Lynx dynasty, her versatility made her one of the most complete players in WNBA history. Her decision to step away for social justice advocacy only elevated her legacy further.

Why This Hall of Fame Class Is Unmatched

• First trio of women inducted together in Naismith Hall of Fame history.
• Combined accolades: 10 WNBA titles, 11 Olympic gold medals, 7 MVP awards.
• Peak dominance: All three ranked among the top 10 players in ESPN’s WNBA 25th-anniversary list.

Previous classes like Lauren Jackson & Yolanda Griffith (2021) and Katie Smith & Tina Thompson (2018) were formidable—but none compare to the historic impact of Bird, Fowles, and Moore.

What This Means for Women’s Basketball

With the WNBA’s growing popularity, future Hall of Fame classes may feature multiple inductees, but this 2025 trio sets an unprecedented standard. Their enshrinement on September 6, 2025, will be a landmark celebration for the sport.