UConn’s Unstoppable Duo: Sue Bird and Maya Moore Headed for the Naismith Hall of Fame as 2025 Finalists, Cementing Their Place in Basketball History
Two of the most iconic figures in women’s basketball, Sue Bird and Maya Moore, are now one step closer to immortalizing their legacies in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. As announced recently, both former University of Connecticut (UConn) stars have been named finalists for the 2025 Hall of Fame class. Their induction would mark another monumental achievement in their illustrious careers, capping off an era of dominance in both college and professional basketball.
Dominance on the Court
Sue Bird and Maya Moore are legends in their own right, having shaped the modern landscape of women’s basketball with their extraordinary skills, leadership, and relentless drive. Bird, one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game, had a career that spanned nearly two decades in the WNBA. Known for her exceptional basketball IQ, pinpoint passing, and leadership, Bird was the backbone of the Seattle Storm franchise and a key player for Team USA, bringing home multiple gold medals in the process.
On the other hand, Maya Moore’s career was nothing short of revolutionary. A gifted scorer, playmaker, and fierce competitor, Moore’s impact on the game went beyond just her statistics. She helped lead UConn to a record-breaking 90-game winning streak during her time with the Huskies, cementing her legacy as one of the most decorated college players in history. After joining the WNBA, Moore’s brilliance continued, helping the Minnesota Lynx win four championships while also earning several individual accolades along the way.
UConn’s Unmatched Legacy
The University of Connecticut women’s basketball program has long been a powerhouse in collegiate sports, and Bird and Moore are two of its most shining examples. Under the tutelage of legendary head coach Geno Auriemma, UConn has consistently produced players who excel both on the court and beyond it. The Huskies have won multiple NCAA championships, and their alumni are regularly featured in the Naismith Hall of Fame conversations.
Sue Bird was part of Auriemma’s first national championship team in 2000, and her leadership and poise were instrumental in setting the foundation for UConn’s future success. During her time in Storrs, Bird was known for her clutch performances and her ability to elevate her teammates’ play, which earned her numerous honors, including a Naismith College Player of the Year award.
Similarly, Maya Moore was a pivotal force in UConn’s continued success. Moore’s ability to dominate on both ends of the court led the Huskies to consecutive NCAA titles, and her presence made UConn nearly unbeatable during her time there. She became the face of the program, earning accolades like the Naismith College Player of the Year twice and leading her team with both skill and determination. The two championship teams she led (2009 and 2010) were part of UConn’s 111-game win streak, which remains a record in NCAA Division I women’s basketball.
A Monumental Career in the WNBA
While UConn gave Bird and Moore a platform to showcase their talents, their WNBA careers took them to unprecedented heights. For Sue Bird, her journey with the Seattle Storm was nothing short of legendary. A two-time WNBA champion (2004, 2018) and five-time Olympic gold medalist, Bird redefined the point guard position with her unmatched vision and playmaking abilities. Over the years, Bird became a fan favorite, earning All-WNBA selections, as well as being named to the WNBA’s All-Decade Team and 25th Anniversary Team.
Her leadership wasn’t limited to the Seattle Storm alone, as Bird was an instrumental part of Team USA’s dominance on the global stage, earning gold medals at four different Olympics (2004, 2008, 2012, and 2020). Throughout her career, Bird has set countless records, including being the all-time leader in assists in the WNBA. She retired in 2022, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential players in basketball history.
Maya Moore’s professional career was equally spectacular. After being drafted first overall by the Minnesota Lynx in 2011, Moore quickly became the face of the franchise and led the Lynx to four WNBA championships (2011, 2013, 2015, and 2017). Known for her scoring prowess, Moore was a six-time WNBA All-Star and a two-time WNBA MVP. However, her career wasn’t solely defined by basketball alone.
In 2019, Moore made the unprecedented decision to take a hiatus from the WNBA to focus on criminal justice reform, particularly advocating for the release of Jonathan Irons, a man wrongfully convicted of a crime. Moore’s activism and dedication to justice added another layer to her legacy, showcasing her impact both on and off the court. After Irons’ release in 2020, Moore returned to the spotlight, but her influence extends far beyond her basketball achievements.
A Hall of Fame Legacy
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is the pinnacle of basketball achievement, and Sue Bird and Maya Moore are well-deserving of their place among the all-time greats. Their induction would not only honor their individual accomplishments but also serve as a testament to the impact UConn has had on women’s basketball. Their careers have transcended the game, and they have each made lasting contributions to the sport’s growth, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
Bird and Moore have both experienced tremendous success on the global stage, helping to elevate women’s basketball to new heights and inspire young athletes. Their paths to the Hall of Fame represent years of hard work, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Both have inspired countless women to pursue their dreams on the court, while also leaving an indelible mark on society as champions of social change and equality.
As they stand as finalists for the 2025 Naismith Hall of Fame class, the recognition of their achievements serves as a reminder of their unparalleled impact on the game of basketball. Their journeys to this point have been extraordinary, but their legacies will undoubtedly continue to influence the sport for years to come.
