WNBA's Most Dominant Players: Liz Cambage

• Set WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points (2018)
• Three-time WNBA All-Star (2011, 2018, 2019)
• Olympic bronze medallist with Australia (2012)

Liz Cambage, a 2.06m centre, dominated the WNBA with her size, scoring ability — controversial personality — leaving an indelible mark on women's basketball.

Elizabeth Folake "Liz" Cambage burst onto the international basketball scene as a towering presence with unmatched scoring prowess. Born in London to a Nigerian father and Australian mother, Cambage moved to Australia at a young age, where she developed her basketball skills. Her height, standing at 2.06 metres (6 ft 9 in), made her a natural fit for the sport, though it also led to challenges in her youth.

Career Snapshot

Cambage's professional career began in Australia's WNBL with the Dandenong Rangers in 2007. She quickly gained attention for her dominant play, which led to her being drafted second overall in the 2011 WNBA Draft by the Tulsa Shock. Despite initial reluctance to play in Tulsa, Cambage made her WNBA debut that year and was named an All-Star as a rookie.

Her WNBA career was intermittent, with breaks to play in China and Australia, before returning to the league in 2018 with the Dallas Wings. It was during this season that Cambage set the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points against the New York Liberty, cementing her place among the league's elite players.

Playing Style

Cambage's game centred on her imposing physical presence in the post. Her height and strength made her nearly unstoppable under the basket, where she could score efficiently and draw fouls. She possessed a soft touch around the rim and could step out to hit mid-range jumpers, making her a versatile offensive threat.

Defensively, Cambage's size made her a formidable shot-blocker and rebounder. She altered countless shots and controlled the paint, forcing opponents to adjust their offensive strategies when she was on the court.

Why Liz Cambage is on our list

Liz Cambage's inclusion on the list of most dominant WNBA players is justified by her record-breaking performances and physical dominance. Her 53-point game in 2018 showcased her ability to take over a game offensively like few others in league history. Cambage's presence on the court often required double teams, creating opportunities for her teammates.

Her impact extended beyond the WNBA, as she was a key player for the Australian national team, helping them secure a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics. Cambage's dunking ability, rare in women's basketball, added to her mystique and marketability.

Five Fast Facts

1. Cambage is the current co-holder of the WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points.
2. She was the first woman to dunk in an Olympic basketball game (2012).
3. Cambage has played professionally in Australia, China, and the United States.
4. She is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness in sports.
5. Cambage has pursued a career as a DJ and model alongside her basketball career.

Opals vs Nigeria

Liz Cambage allegedly made racial remarks during an altercation with Nigerian players during a pre-Olympics practice game in 2021. Cambage reportedly called Nigerian players "monkeys" and sparked a physical confrontation. Following this, she was effectively blacklisted by the Australian Opals and banned from representing Australia, intensifying public backlash.

Cambage later claimed that Nigerian players had invited her to join their team, citing her father's Nigerian heritage. This statement was disputed by Nigerian guard Promise Amukamara. Despite the incident, Nigerian star Elizabeth Balogun has offered to welcome Cambage to the Nigerian national team, D’Tigress, if she wishes to play for them, showing forgiveness despite the past conflict.

Career Highlights Timeline

2007: Began professional career with Dandenong Rangers in WNBL

2011: Drafted 2nd overall by Tulsa Shock in WNBA Draft; named WNBA All-Star

2012: Won bronze medal with Australian Opals at London Olympics; first woman to dunk in Olympic competition

2018: Set WNBA single-game scoring record with 53 points; named WNBA All-Star

2019: Traded to Las Vegas Aces; named WNBA All-Star for third time

2022: Signed with Los Angeles Sparks; later released and announced stepping away from WNBA

Liz Cambage's career has been marked by incredible highs and controversial moments. Her dominant play on the court proved that a traditional big  could still thrive in the modern game. Cambage's scoring ability, particularly her record-setting 53-point performance, highlighted her offensive prowess and placed her among the WNBA's elite.

However, Cambage's career has also been punctuated by off-court issues and controversies. Her outspoken nature and struggles with mental health have been well-documented, adding layers to her public persona. These factors, combined with her intermittent WNBA participation, have complicated her legacy.

Despite the controversies, Cambage's impact on the game is undeniable. Her physical dominance forced teams to game plan specifically for her, often requiring double teams that opened up opportunities for teammates. Her ability to score from various positions on the court made her a nightmare for defenders, and her presence in the paint altered countless shots on the defensive end.

Cambage's international experience, including her success with the Australian national team, further solidifies her status as one of the most dominant players in women's basketball. Her Olympic bronze medal and Commonwealth Games gold medal demonstrate her ability to perform at the highest levels of competition.

The centre's decision to step away from the WNBA in 2022 marked the end of an era in the league. While her time in the WNBA was shorter than some of her contemporaries, her impact during her active years was significant enough to warrant inclusion among the most dominant players in league history.

Liz Cambage's legacy in women's basketball is complex. Her on-court dominance is unquestionable, with her size, skill, and scoring ability placing her among the best centres to ever play the game. Off the court, her advocacy for mental health awareness and her willingness to speak out on social issues have made her a notable figure beyond her athletic achievements.

As the game continues to evolve, Cambage's impact on the WNBA and women's basketball as a whole will be remembered for both her record-breaking performances and the conversations she sparked about player welfare and social issues in sport. Her career serves as a reminder of the power of dominant individual performances and the complexities of being a high-profile athlete in the modern era.