Oregon's connection to the WNBA runs deeper than you might think! From star players to influential coaches, the state has a significant presence in professional women's basketball. Let's dive into some of the most prominent Oregon-linked figures in the WNBA.
Sabrina Ionescu, New York Liberty: If you're a fan of women's basketball in Oregon, the name Sabrina Ionescu needs no introduction. Affectionately known as "GOAT" by Oregon Ducks fans, she dominated the college scene from 2016 to 2020. Her incredible skills and leadership were instrumental in propelling the Ducks into the national spotlight. Although their 2020 season was cut short due to COVID-19, Ionescu left an indelible mark. She holds the NCAA record for all-time triple-doubles and was a three-time Pac-12 Player of the Year. Drafted No. 1 overall by the New York Liberty in 2020, she's since become a four-time All-Star and led the Liberty to a WNBA Championship in 2024.
Satou Sabally, Phoenix Mercury: Joining Ionescu at Oregon was Satou Sabally, known as "The Unicorn" for her guard-like agility despite her 6'4" stature. A two-time All-Pac-12 selection and a second-team All-American in 2020, Sabally was drafted No. 2 overall by the Dallas Wings in the 2020 WNBA Draft. She's a three-time WNBA All-Star. After a trade to the Phoenix Mercury in February 2025, she helped lead the team to the WNBA Finals.
Nyara Sabally, New York Liberty: The younger sister of Satou, Nyara also played for Oregon, though injuries kept them from playing together. She was a standout post presence after returning in the 2020-2021 season. A two-time All-Pac-12 selection, she was drafted fifth overall by the Liberty in 2022 and was a key contributor to their 2024 WNBA Championship run. Fun fact: Nyara was born in Bandon, making her the only current WNBA player born in Oregon!
Cameron Brink, Los Angeles Sparks: Before her WNBA career, Brink was a high school basketball legend in Oregon. She led Southridge High School to state championships in 2017 and 2018 and was a runner-up in 2019. With a high school career total of 1,909 points and 1,209 rebounds, she earned All-American honors in 2020 and was the Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019. She continued her success at Stanford, winning the 2021 NCAA Championship. She was the 2024 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year and was drafted second overall by the Sparks in 2024.
Te-Hina Paopao, Atlanta Dream: Paopao joined the Ducks in 2020 as a potential successor to Ionescu. She was twice named to the All-Pac-12 Team (2021 and 2022) and transferred to South Carolina in 2023, where she played point guard for the NCAA Championship-winning team in 2024. She was drafted 18th overall by the Atlanta Dream in 2025.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Nate Tibbetts, Phoenix Mercury: The Mercury's head coach, Nate Tibbetts, is known for his time as an assistant coach for the Portland Trail Blazers from 2013 to 2021. He took over the Mercury in 2024.
Elaine Powell, Minnesota Lynx: Powell, now an assistant coach for the Lynx, started her WNBA career in 1999 but also played for the Portland Power in 1997 and 1998.
Mitch Thompson, Seattle Storm: Thompson, hired by the Storm in 2025, has deep roots in Oregon. He led Irrigon High School to a state championship in 2015 and also worked with the Oregon State men's basketball team.
And this is the part most people miss...
This is just a glimpse of the strong connection between Oregon and the WNBA. It's a testament to the state's rich basketball history and its ability to produce top-tier talent.
What do you think? Are there any other Oregon connections in the WNBA that you think deserve recognition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
