When it comes to basketball, height can be a major advantage, and the WNBA is no exception. Fans often wonder who holds the record for the tallest player in the league’s history. Whether you're a casual follower or a dedicated fan, knowing about the towering athletes in the WNBA adds a new layer of appreciation for the sport. In this article, we’ll explore who the tallest player in WNBA history is, how they made their mark, and what it means to play at that height in a fast-paced professional league.

Standing out on the court isn’t just about talent—it’s also about presence. The WNBA has seen its fair share of tall players, but only a few have truly dominated with their sheer size. From shot blocking to rebounding, height plays a key role in shaping a player’s impact. So, who's the tallest one to ever play in the WNBA? Let’s dive in and find out.

Before we get into the details, it’s worth noting that the WNBA was founded on April 24, 1996, as the women's counterpart to the NBA, and it has grown over the years, currently having 13 teams with plans to expand to 18 by 2030. As the league continues to evolve, so too do the athletes who play in it. And sometimes, that evolution includes players who quite literally stand above the rest.

• Ky Frost

Table of Contents

• Biography of the WNBA’s Tallest Player
• Career Achievements and Impact
• What It’s Like Playing at That Height
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of the WNBA’s Tallest Player

The title of the WNBA’s tallest player ever belongs to none other than Margo Dydek. Standing at a massive 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters), Dydek was not only the tallest player in WNBA history, but also one of the most dominant defensive presences the league has ever seen. She was born on April 1, 1974, in Warsaw, Poland, and her height was a major factor in her basketball career from a young age.

By the time she entered the WNBA in 1998, she was already a known commodity in European basketball circles. Her height gave her a natural edge in shot blocking and rebounding, and she quickly became a fan favorite.

Personal Details:

• Marisa Tomei Sexy

Career Achievements and Impact

Margo Dydek was selected first overall in the 1998 WNBA Draft by the Utah Starzz, and from day one, she made her presence known on the court. She finished her rookie season with an impressive average of 9.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks per game. Her shot-blocking ability was unmatched at the time, and she quickly became one of the league’s defensive cornerstones.

Over her 12-season WNBA career, Dydek played for two teams: the Utah Starzz and later the Connecticut Sun. She was known for her defensive prowess, and in fact, she still holds the record for the most career blocks in WNBA history with 877. That’s more than any other player—male or female—in professional basketball history.

Her career stats include:

• 877 career blocks
• 1.9 blocks per game average
• 2,125 total rebounds
• 1,356 career points

Though her offensive game wasn’t as dominant as her defense, her height allowed her to be a constant threat on both ends of the floor. She was more than just a physical presence—she was a leader, a mentor, and a trailblazer for future tall players in the WNBA.

What It’s Like Playing at That Height

Playing at over 7 feet tall in the WNBA comes with its own set of challenges and advantages. For Margo Dydek, her height gave her a unique edge, but it also meant she had to adapt to a game that wasn’t always built for someone her size.

For starters, mobility can be a concern. While she wasn’t the fastest player on the court, her timing, positioning, and sheer reach more than made up for it. She was known for her ability to block shots without fouling, a rare skill that made her a nightmare for opposing offenses.

Another factor is the physical toll. Playing at that height puts more strain on the joints, and equipment like shoes and uniforms aren’t always made for someone that tall. Dydek had to have custom-made gear throughout her career, which was both expensive and logistically challenging.

Despite these hurdles, her height was a major asset. She could alter shots without even jumping, and her rebounding ability was unmatched. She was a game-changer every time she stepped on the court.

Other Tallest Players in WNBA History

Margo Dydek may be the tallest WNBA player ever, but she's not the only one who stood out for her height. Here are a few other notable tall players:

1. Brittney Griner – 6'8" (2.03 m)
2. Elizabeth Williams – 6'5" (1.96 m)
3. Kalana Greene – 6'3" (1.90 m)
4. Simone Biles (not a WNBA player, but often searched alongside tall athletes)

Brittney Griner, in particular, has drawn a lot of attention in recent years. Standing at 6'8", she’s one of the tallest active players and has had a major impact on the league, both defensively and offensively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the tallest player in WNBA history?

The tallest player in WNBA history is Margo Dydek, who stood at 7 feet 2 inches tall. She played from 1998 until her retirement in 2010.

Who is the current tallest player in the WNBA?

As of the 2024 season, the tallest active player in the WNBA is Brittney Griner, who stands at 6 feet 8 inches.

How does height impact performance in the WNBA?

Height can give players a significant edge in areas like rebounding, shot blocking, and scoring near the rim. However, it’s not the only factor—agility, skill, and basketball IQ are equally important.

How did Margo Dydek affect the WNBA?

Dydek redefined what it meant to be a defensive center in the WNBA. Her record for most blocks still stands today, and she helped shape how teams value defense and interior presence.

For more on WNBA news, scores, and updates, you can check out ESPN’s WNBA coverage. And if you're curious about how players are selected or how stats are tracked, you might want to learn more about our WNBA player stats finder tool.