When it comes to the WNBA, talent, agility, and strategy often take center stage — but height matters too. Standing out on the court isn’t just about skill; sometimes, it’s about literally standing taller than the competition. Fans often wonder: who is the tallest WNBA player? Whether you're a basketball enthusiast or just curious about the physical extremes in sports, this article dives into the records, the players, and why height plays such a big role in women’s basketball.

From towering centers to dominant defenders, height can offer a real advantage in the game. While the WNBA showcases a wide range of athletic builds, the tallest players often make headlines — and for good reason. Their reach, presence, and ability to dominate in the paint set them apart in a league already filled with elite athletes.

So, who holds the record for the tallest WNBA player? Let’s take a closer look at the players, the stats, and what it really means to be a giant in the world of women’s basketball.

• How Old Is Riley Greene Singer

Table of Contents

• Biography of the Tallest WNBA Player
• How Height Impacts Performance in the WNBA
• Top 5 Tallest Players in WNBA History
• Is There a Height Advantage in Basketball?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of the Tallest WNBA Player

When talking about the tallest WNBA player, one name consistently comes up: Margo Dydek. Standing at an incredible 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.

Born in Warsaw, Poland, in 1980, Margo came from a family of athletes. Her father was a professional basketball player, and her siblings were also involved in sports. She started playing professionally in Europe before being drafted by the Utah Starzz in 2001 — later known as the San Antonio Silver Stars.

Despite her enormous height, Dydek was known for her grace and agility on the court. Her reach made her a nightmare for opposing offenses, and she led the league in blocks multiple times during her career.

• Jennifer Garner Related To James Garner

Margo Dydek passed away in 2011 at the age of 30, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond her physical stature. She was a beloved teammate, a role model, and a pioneer for international players in the WNBA.

How Height Impacts Performance in the WNBA

Height can be a major advantage in basketball, and the WNBA is no exception. The taller a player is, the easier it is to reach the basket, block shots, grab rebounds, and create space on offense. But height alone doesn’t guarantee success — players must also possess the skill, agility, and basketball IQ to make the most of their physical gifts.

For example, Margo Dydek used her height to dominate defensively. Her 7'2" frame allowed her to contest nearly every shot near the rim, and her wingspan made it nearly impossible for opponents to sneak past her under the basket. In a way, she was a wall in the paint — a giant presence that opponents had to plan around.

On the offensive side, taller players can also score with ease, especially in the post. Their height makes it harder for defenders to block their shots, and they can often score over defenders without needing to jump as high. However, taller players sometimes struggle with mobility and perimeter defense, which is why many teams look for a balance between size and agility.

Still, in a sport where inches can make a difference, having a player who towers over the competition can be a game-changer.

Top 5 Tallest Players in WNBA History

While Margo Dydek is the tallest WNBA player of all time, she’s not the only one who's made a mark on the league due to her height. Here are the top five tallest players in WNBA history:

1. Margo Dydek – 7'2"
2. Brittney Griner – 6'8"
3. Lauren Jackson – 6'5"
4. DeWanna Bonner – 6'4"
5. Ezinne Kalu – 6'4"

Brittney Griner, who plays for the Phoenix Mercury and was recently traded from the Chicago Sky, is one of the most recognizable names on this list. Standing at 6'8", she’s known for her athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and dunking — something very few WNBA players can do.

Griner's height gives her a unique edge. She can block shots like a traditional center while also stepping out and playing like a forward. That versatility makes her a key player on both ends of the court.

Check out more about Brittney Griner’s impact on the WNBA and how her height has helped shape her career.

Is There a Height Advantage in Basketball?

It’s no secret that height is a big deal in basketball. The ability to reach higher than your opponent can make all the difference in scoring, defending, and rebounding. But is being tall always a guaranteed advantage?

In some cases, yes. Tall players tend to dominate in the paint. They can score more easily, grab more rebounds, and defend the rim better. However, being tall also comes with challenges. For one, taller players often have to work harder to maintain agility and avoid injuries. Their height can also make them a target for physical play.

Still, many of the best players in WNBA history have been above average in height. Margo Dydek, Brittney Griner, and Liz Cambage all used their size to dominate games in different ways. If you’re curious about how height affects player performance, you can learn more about basketball height advantages and how players adapt to their physical traits.

In the end, it’s not just about being tall — it’s about how you use your height to your advantage. And in the WNBA, players like Dydek and Griner have shown that when you combine height with skill, you can truly change the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the tallest player in WNBA history?

Margo Dydek holds the record for being the tallest player in WNBA history at 7 feet 2 inches (2.18 meters). She played for the Utah Starzz and later the San Antonio Silver Stars, and was known for her defensive prowess and shot-blocking ability.

Is Brittney Griner the tallest active WNBA player?

Brittney Griner stands at 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters), making her one of the tallest active players in the WNBA today. While she’s not the tallest ever, she’s among the top in terms of presence and impact on the court.

Has any WNBA player been 7 feet tall?

Yes, Margo Dydek was the only player in WNBA history to be 7 feet tall or taller. At 7'2", she was a unique presence in the league and remains the tallest player to have ever played in the WNBA.

If you're interested in more WNBA height records and stats, you can explore the official WNBA website for updated player profiles and game highlights.