Top WNBA Teams | Best Women’s Basketball Teams

Women’s basketball has grown into a powerhouse of athletic talent, global attention, and rich competition—and at the heart of it all is the WNBA. Since its founding in 1996, the league has expanded, evolved, and delivered thrilling moments season after season. The WNBA’s made up of 13 teams, and each one has its own feel—its own community, its own energy, and a story that makes you want to root for them. It’s not just the talent that makes this league what it is—it’s the grind, the heart, and the way these players show up for each other, no matter what.

We’re taking a look at some of the greatest WNBA teams—whether they dominated for years, came out of nowhere to surprise everyone, or changed the game in their own way. Whether you’re a new fan or a longtime follower, here’s a breakdown of the most iconic and successful women’s basketball teams to ever grace the WNBA hardwood.

1. Minnesota Lynx – The Dynasty of the 2010s

The Minnesota Lynx dominated the WNBA through the 2010s, winning four championships (2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017). With a lineup featuring Maya Moore, Lindsay Whalen, Seimone Augustus, and Sylvia Fowles, they blended high IQ basketball with physical toughness.

Cheryl Reeve did more than coach—she helped build the mindset and confidence that turned the team into champions. The Lynx weren’t just loaded with talent—they genuinely trusted each other when it mattered most. That mix of trust and grit showed everyone what it really takes to win in today’s WNBA.

Championships: 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017

Notable Strengths: Depth, veteran leadership, strong defense

2. Houston Comets – The Original Dynasty

The Houston Comets were the first great WNBA team. Between 1997 and 2000, they won four straight titles—an unmatched feat to this day. Cynthia Cooper, Sheryl Swoopes, and Tina Thompson weren’t just stars—they had that perfect mix of scoring power, tough defense, and veteran smarts that made them nearly impossible to beat.

Cooper especially stood out with how dominant she was. Winning Finals MVP each year during their run, she was the driving force of the Comets’ early success. Though the franchise folded in 2008, their legacy as pioneers of the league still resonates.

Championships: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Legacy: The blueprint for winning in the WNBA’s formative years

3. Seattle Storm – Longevity Meets Greatness

The Seattle Storm are one of the few WNBA teams to win championships across multiple eras. Their titles in 2004, 2010, 2018, and 2020 show just how well this franchise has adapted over time. Originally led by Lauren Jackson and Sue Bird, and later by Breanna Stewart and Jewell Loyd, the Storm have always combined elite talent with strong leadership.

The 2020 championship inside the bubble solidified their modern legacy. With Bird retiring and a younger core stepping up, the Storm are already building their next chapter.

Championships: 2004, 2010, 2018, 2020

Strengths: Player development, offensive balance, long-term vision

4. Los Angeles Sparks – Star Power & Legacy

The Los Angeles Sparks have long been one of the league’s most popular and marketable teams. With stars like Lisa Leslie, the first woman to dunk in a WNBA game, and later Candace Parker, the Sparks have built their success on headline talent and big moments.

They grabbed titles in 2001 and 2002, then made an epic comeback in 2016, winning it all with a Game 5 buzzer-beater against the Lynx—easily one of the most unforgettable Finals the league’s ever seen.

Championships: 2001, 2002, 2016

Notable Players: Lisa Leslie, Candace Parker, Nneka Ogwumike

Legacy: A mix of flair, dominance, and historic firsts

5. Phoenix Mercury – Offense and Firepower

Few teams have captured the imagination of WNBA fans like the Phoenix Mercury. With their up-tempo style and raw passion, the Mercury have never been a team that blends into the background.Their championship years—2007, 2009, and 2014—were built on the brilliance of Diana Taurasi, widely regarded as one of the greatest WNBA players ever.

The addition of Brittney Griner and later Skylar Diggins-Smith turned them into a superteam for stretches. Even when they’re not winning titles, the Mercury are always competitive and exciting to watch.

Championships: 2007, 2009, 2014

Strengths: Scoring, veteran experience, big-game players

6. Las Vegas Aces – A New Era of Dominance

Mercury After relocating from San Antonio and rebranding, they’ve become a juggernaut under coach Becky Hammon. Led by A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray, the Aces won back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023.

Their roster depth, smart offense, and physical defense have made them a modern dynasty in the making. With youth and confidence on their side, the Aces look set to remain on top for years to come.

Championships: 2022, 2023

Style: Fast, physical, and highly organized

7. Chicago Sky – The Cinderella Story

The Sky were never considered a powerhouse until their magical 2021 season. Led by Candace Parker, who returned to her hometown team, and Finals MVP Kahleah Copper, the Sky overcame playoff odds to capture their first-ever title.

That victory was a symbol of perseverance and great coaching by James Wade. While they’ve had ups and downs since, that season redefined what belief and chemistry can do in the WNBA.

Championships: 2021

Legacy: Proof that the right mix of veterans and hunger wins titles

8. New York Liberty – Old Soul, New Power

One of the original WNBA teams, the Liberty were early contenders but never captured a title—until recently becoming a serious superteam. With the arrivals of Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and the rise of Sabrina Ionescu, the Liberty are championship hopefuls once again.

In 2023, they made it to the WNBA Finals, showing their rebuild has paid off. The franchise’s blend of history and modern talent puts them in a prime spot for a breakthrough.

Finals Appearances: 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2023

Current Strength: All-star core, strong frontcourt, great depth

9. Connecticut Sun – Always in the Hunt

Though they’ve never won a championship, the Sun are one of the most consistently successful teams in recent WNBA history. Their physical style and defensive grit have brought them to multiple Finals and deep playoff runs.

Stars like Alyssa Thomas, DeWanna Bonner, and former MVP Jonquel Jones (now with the Liberty) helped make the Sun one of the toughest outs in the league. They continue to build around resilience and hustle.

Finals Appearances: 2004, 2005, 2019, 2022

Identity: Defense-first, hard-working, battle-tested

What Makes a Top WNBA Team?

Success in the WNBA comes down to several key ingredients:

Star Power: Players who rise in big moments (e.g., Taurasi, Stewart, Parker)

Coaching: Great tacticians like Cheryl Reeve and Becky Hammon

Chemistry: Teams like the Lynx and Sky thrived on unity

Adaptability: Sustained success often means evolving with the league

From the original champions to today’s rising powerhouses, the best WNBA teams know how to blend talent, timing, and trust.

Final Thoughts

The WNBA’s journey is still being written, and every year adds a new chapter of excellence, surprises, and unforgettable performances. Whether it’s the trailblazing Houston Comets, the dynastic Minnesota Lynx, or the rising Las Vegas Aces, each team has left its mark on the league’s history.

As the league continues to expand and evolve, one thing is clear—women’s basketball has never been more exciting. The competition is fierce, the stories are powerful, and the future is bright for the top WNBA teams.

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