Can the Best Women Basketball Player Succeed in the NBA?

While the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) showcases some of the most talented and skilled players in the sport, there is a common debate: could the best female basketball player compete and succeed in the National Basketball Association (NBA)? This article explores the feasibility of the best women's basketball player making an impact in the NBA, considering factors like skill level, physical attributes, and performance.

The Skill Level of Top Women's Players

Maya Moore and Diana Taurasi, two of the most productive women's basketball players of all time, exemplify the skill level in the WNBA. Diana Taurasi, the all-time leading scorer in the WNBA, averaged an astounding 19.8 points per game across her career and even put up 25.3 points in a single season, a record in the WNBA. Meanwhile, Maya Moore, while not quite matching Taurasi's career points per game, is lauded for her ability to score at will and her strong winning mentality.

Physical Attributes and Physical Demands of the NBA

Despite these impressive points per game averages, however, the physical demands of the NBA are significant. Male basketball players are generally built stronger and faster, leading to a different playing style and physicality that is challenging for women's players. To illustrate, compare the physical attributes of top WNBA players, like Diana Taurasi (6 feet, 163 lbs) and Maya Moore (6 feet, 178 lbs), to those of NBA players. Isaiah Thomas, one of the smallest players in the NBA, stands at 5′9 and weighs 185 pounds, while a powerful player like Andre Drummond can weigh as much as 280 pounds.

The difference in physicality is stark. Women's players would struggle to hold their ground in contact-heavy situations, a critical component of the NBA, where drives to the basket and layups often require significant physical strength. This is further emphasized when observing the pace of the game, where the NBA is extremely fast compared to the WNBA.

Role Players in the NBA?

With these challenges in mind, it seems that the best women's basketball players might be better suited to roles as bench players in the NBA. Players like Maya Moore, with her ability to space the floor and score effectively, might find a niche as a guard, but even she would struggle with the physical demands that come with regular playing time. Similarly, players like Tamika Catchings, known for her perimeter shooting, might have to adjust their positions to fit the stature of the NBA, possibly switching to the shooting guard position.

The exception may be Brittney Griner, who stands taller at 6 feet 8 inches. Despite her strength, she would likely still be limited to bench roles. This stems from the height differential, which creates a significant disadvantage for women's players during games.

Conclusion: A Path, but a Long One

In conclusion, while the best women's basketball players possess the skills and talent to make the transition to the NBA, the physical demands and the height differential are significant barriers. It is possible that the best women's players could contribute effectively as bench players, but making the starting line-up as a regular player would remain a formidable challenge.

Nevertheless, their success in these roles would open new conversations and opportunities for women's players in the NBA, potentially paving the way for greater integration of women in professional basketball.