The first player ever signed to the WNBA and three-time league MVP — Swoopes' combination of scoring, athleticism and three-point shooting made her one of the most complete players in the history of women's basketball.
Sheryl Swoopes was born in Brownfield, Texas in 1971. She was the first player ever signed to a WNBA contract in 1997. Houston Comets selected her as part of the inaugural season roster and she was instrumental in all four WNBA championships (1997, 1998, 1999, 2000). She won three WNBA MVP awards (2000, 2002, 2005) and two Olympic gold medals (1996, 2000). She won the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award three consecutive times. She was the first WNBA player to have a Nike signature shoe — the Air Swoopes. She was a six-time All-Star and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016. Her combination of scoring, athleticism and three-point shooting made her one of the most complete players in WNBA history.
Dominant WNBA forward, first player signed in WNBA history, Olympic champion
How They Played
Versatile forward with exceptional scoring ability, strong defensive presence, and leadership skills
Lasting Impact
WNBA pioneer and one of the greatest women's basketball players of all time
WNBA Champion 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Career Honours
- WNBA Champion 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
- WNBA MVP 2000, 2002, 2005
- Olympic Gold 1996, 2000