WNBA names top 25 players in celebration of 25th year

In celebration of their 25th anniversary, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) on Sunday announced the selection of 'The W25' which names the greatest and most influential players in WNBA history.

Included in the W25 are current WNBA players: Sue Bird, Tina Charles, Elena Delle Donne, Sylvia Fowles, Brittney Griner, Angel McCoughtry, Nneka Ogwumike, Candace Parker, Breanna Stewart, and Diana Taurasi.

Aside from the ten, the list also includes WNBA legends Seimone Augustus, Swin Cash, Tamika Catchings, Cynthia Cooper, Yolanda Griffith, Becky Hammon, Lauren Jackson, Lisa Leslie, Maya Moore, Ticha Penicheiro, Cappie Pondexter, Katie Smith, Sheryl Swoopes, Tina Thompson and Lindsay Whalen.

WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said naming the league's 25 greatest players is the best way to honor their impact on the sport and society.

“Throughout this season, the WNBA and our fans are celebrating the impact the WNBA has made on sports and society over a quarter of a century,” said Engelbert. “I can think of no better way to honor those responsible for that impact than by unveiling the members of this prestigious group, The W25. These athletes have played the game at the highest level on the court – they are scorers and rebounders, assist makers and defensive stoppers, leaders and mentors."

Engelbert also noted the players' use of platforms in inspiring other people.

"In the community, they have powerful voices, individually and collectively, speaking out on important issues in our society. Together, they have transformed the way the game is played, changed the way athletes are viewed, become incredible role models, and inspired generations of young, diverse athletes," she said.

Aside from The W25, the league also launched the "Vote for the GOAT" campaign where fans can select who is WNBA's Greatest of All Time.

Fans can cast their votes via the WNBA site or its app, or through Twitter, with the hashtag #WNBAGoatVote or tagging their official campaign handles.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA News