Unveiling the Elite: A Deep Dive into the Top 15 Players of the Women’s Final Four
As the Women’s Final Four tips off this weekend in Cleveland, Ohio, basketball fans are eager to witness the brightest stars of collegiate athletics take center stage. These 15 standout players—featuring All-Americans, record-breakers, and future WNBA draft picks—have propelled their teams to the national semifinals through exceptional skill, leadership, and clutch performances. From dominant post players to sharpshooting guards, here’s who could decide this year’s championship.
The Unstoppable Forces: Top 5 Game-Changers
Leading the pack is Paige Bueckers (UConn), whose return from injury has been nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 22.1 points and 5.3 assists per game, the 2021 Naismith Player of the Year has reclaimed her throne. “Paige isn’t just scoring—she’s elevating everyone around her,” says ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo. Close behind is Caitlin Clark (Iowa), the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer, whose 32.4 PPG and 9.2 APG make her a nightly triple-double threat.
- Cameron Brink (Stanford): 18.2 PPG, 12.1 RPG, and 3.8 blocks per game anchor her team’s defense.
- Angel Reese (LSU): The reigning Final Four MVP averages a double-double (19.4 PPG, 13.1 RPG).
- Juju Watkins (USC): The freshman phenom’s 27.3 PPG is second only to Clark.
Mid-Range Maestros and Defensive Stalwarts
While stars like Clark dominate headlines, players like Aaliyah Edwards (UConn) and Kamilla Cardoso (South Carolina) have been instrumental in their teams’ success. Edwards’ 59.2% field-goal percentage showcases her efficiency, while Cardoso’s 10.4 RPG and 2.7 BPG underscore her defensive prowess. “Cardoso is the backbone of South Carolina’s undefeated season,” notes NCAA analyst Debbie Antonelli.
Meanwhile, Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame) has been a revelation, leading all freshmen in steals (4.6 SPG) while dropping 23.3 PPG. Her matchup against Clark in the semifinals could be a defining moment.
Underrated Impact Players
Beyond the household names, unsung heroes like Te-Hina Paopao (South Carolina) and KK Arnold (UConn) have been critical. Paopao’s 46.8% three-point shooting stretches defenses, while Arnold’s lockdown perimeter defense disrupts opposing guards. “These players don’t always fill stat sheets, but they’re the glue holding teams together,” says Lobo.
Stats That Tell the Story
The numbers reveal why these athletes are elite:
- Combined, the top 15 players average 19.8 PPG, 7.4 RPG, or 4.2 APG.
- Six shoot above 40% from three-point range.
- Eight have recorded a triple-double this season.
What’s Next: The Road to the Championship
With the Final Four set, these players will face their toughest tests yet. Can Clark outduel Hidalgo? Will Reese’s rebounding overpower Cardoso? The answers will shape not only this tournament but also the future of women’s basketball. As the spotlight intensifies, one thing is certain: these 15 athletes are ready to leave everything on the court.
Don’t miss the Women’s Final Four action—tune in this Friday at 7 PM ET on ESPN to witness history in the making.
See more Highlights Daily
