One really has to be extraordinarily talented, hard-working, and mentally strong to score in basketball, and among these players in the WNBA, many etched their names in history through their incredible performances. The record for the most points scored in a single game in WNBA history belongs to Liz Cambage, who, on July 17, 2018, scored a phenomenal 53 points while playing against the New York Liberty on behalf of the Dallas Wings at College Park Center, Arlington, Texas.
Her scoring displays that different styles of scoring have been exhibited. Cambage showcased her vast ruler in the paint and mid-range scoring. With sizzling 17-of-22 shooting from the floor, 4-of-5 from beyond the arc, and 15-of-16 at the charity stripe, she led her side to a 104-87 victory. It was not only a show of personal prowess but also a proven model for effectiveness.
The milestone saw Cambage showcase her versatility as a scorer-from punishing the interior defense to stepping out for the three. The fixture was interesting in that it acted as a normal season event, giving evidence that history itself can often be made beyond playoff settings as players take advantage of opportunities to make magic happen. These performances stay with fans and players alike, imbuing them with the reminder of great potential in each game.
Liz Cambage’s achievement is one of the most celebrated feats in the history of the WNBA, not just for the number of points but for a great performance under pressure in front of a gathered audience. Such a reflection of how much work and mental fortitude went into reaching those heights. Such games are an inspiration for future stars of the WNBA because they show that records are not easy to break, but they are possible.
Most Points in a WNBA Playoff Game
Basketball in the playoffs takes on a deeper intensity when teams soar beyond ordinary slugfests and fight for every single possession. In the WNBA playoff game, Angel McCoughtry set the record as she scored 42 points on September 27, 2010. The date was set for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals. McCoughtry, playing for Atlanta Dream, defined the scoring searing against the New York Liberty at Madison Square Garden.
McCoughtry exhibited talent coupled with that quality of aggressiveness. She drove hard to the basket, got fouled, and made 17 of 21 free throws on the way. With great poise and composure under stress, she became one of the best playoff performers in the league. Besides this, she boosted her team at a critical playoff moment with leadership intervention, not just as a scorer.
The pressure of playoffs often dictates a change in a team’s strategy. Possessions become precious, with defensive cover tightening, and scoring opportunities become limited, thus increasing value. But players like McCoughtry shine in such moments, scoring with instinct and mental toughness over competitors. Her triumph is testimony to the uniqueness associated with playoff basketball- a point matters, and talent is needed in these scenarios for the players to do well.
This performance streak showed the mantra of preparation and flexibility during the playoffs. Coaches and teammates came together to support McCoughtry at a dazzling moment that made WNBA playoff history. To this day, fans recall this as having one of the most electrifying moments under the lights in the playoffs. Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart displayed the same level of performance on the court in 2024 in terms of points.
WNBA Most Points Per Game in a Season
Scoring well throughout the season is synonymous with greatness, and no one is more of a personification of this than Diana Taurasi. In the 2006 season, Taurasi filed an astonishing average of 25.3 points per match, the much-applauded high record in history. She displayed her scoring capabilities under the Phoenix Mercury banner with a fantastic polymorphic scorer through three-point shots, mid-range jumpers, and bold driving against the hoop.
There were so many components attached to the illustrious season of Taurasi. His uniquely entrenched playing approach, amalgamation of agility, and aggressiveness enabled him to score in many ways. Indeed, the fast-paced offense of the Mercury provided numerous scoring opportunities and, more importantly, allowed her to assert her leadership, keeping her as the central figure of the team’s offensive maneuvers. Besides, her talent in dodging the defensive strategies mostly framed to hamper her is evidence of her intelligence in basketball and essential passion.
Achieving such a high scoring rate against elite competitors speaks volumes about the hard work and talent required to accomplish it. That season is still regarded as the standard against which individual scoring performance in the WNBA could ultimately be measured. Taurasi not only aided her team but also encouraged an entire generation of players through her tenacity and shooting accuracy.
It takes enormous physical training along with mental focus and tactical cleverness to perform at such a lofty level for any length of time. The standard set by Taurasi’s achievement is inspiring the next generation of athletes to perform at a higher level of scoring consistency during what can be a tough season.
WNBA Most Points in a Game: All-Time Leaders
Over the years, the WNBA has seen numerous players deliver unforgettable scoring performances. In addition to Liz Cambage’s record-setting 53-point game, other players have also made their mark with remarkable single-game feats:
- Riquna Williams scored 51 points on September 8, 2013, while playing for the Tulsa Shock against the San Antonio Stars. Williams’ performance featured an impeccable display of shooting, including 8 three-pointers.
- Diana Taurasi recorded multiple 40-point games throughout her career, which established her reputation as one of the league’s most prolific scorers.
- Maya Moore scored 48 points in a double-overtime thriller on July 22, 2014, showcasing her ability to soak pressure in clutch moments.
These players have not only set records but also inspired future generations to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the court. Their performances highlight the evolving offensive capabilities in the WNBA and the league’s growing competitiveness.
The ability to score in such high volumes requires a unique blend of skill, strategy, and endurance. Each of these games remains a testament to the players’ ability to rise to the occasion and deliver unforgettable moments for fans. The legacy of these performances extends beyond the box score, influencing the way the game is played and celebrated today.
5 Players with Most Points in WNBA Playoffs History
The playoffs are where legends are made, and some players have consistently delivered when it matters most. Below is a table of the top five players with the most points in WNBA playoff history as per the Sportskeeda data:
| Rank | Player | Total Points | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diana Taurasi | 1,279 | Most career playoff points in WNBA history |
| 2 | Tamika Catchings | 1,141 | Known for clutch performances |
| 3 | Maya Moore | 1,032 | Led Minnesota Lynx to multiple titles |
| 4 | Cappie Pondexter | 972 | Dominated during the Mercury’s playoff runs |
| 5 | Candace Parker | 942 | Consistently excelled in high-pressure games |
These players have not only scored in volume but have also delivered in critical moments, cementing their legacies as playoff greats. Their ability to perform under immense pressure speaks to their preparation, skill, and competitive spirit. Fans and analysts often revisit these performances to appreciate the artistry and resilience required to excel on the biggest stage.
Each player’s contributions go beyond their scoring numbers. Their leadership, ability to motivate teammates and knack for making game-changing plays have defined their playoff careers. This table serves as a celebration of the WNBA’s finest playoff performers, whose achievements will continue to inspire for generations.
Conclusion
There have always been some record-breaking scoring feats in the WNBA that show the outstanding athletic skills and perseverance of its athletes. From Liz Cambage’s record of 53 points in a single game to Angel McCoughtry’s playoff performance and Diana Taurasi’s unrivaled averages in a season, these have been part of the things that show what the league can offer and how it is continuing to get better.
It is so exciting to know what great talents will come through to beat such records and create new ones as the WNBA keeps on going forward. Whether in regular season matches, playoffs, or across an entire season, the all-time scoring records in the WNBA reflect a tribute to basketball greatness.
Each one of those scoring records tells a story about hard work, passion, and perseverance. They serve as the standard for players and fans alike, highlighting the beauty and passion the game can create. Scoring royalty is a vital part of the ongoing appeal of the WNBA and an endorsement of the league’s bright future.
FAQs
Q. What are the most points scored in a WNBA game?
A. 53 points is the most number of points scored in a WNBA game.
Q. Who scored the most points in a WNBA game?
A. A’ja Wilson and Liz Cambage are the ones who have scored the most points in a WNBA game.