Kelsey Griffin Crowned Greatest of All Time in Women’s College Basketball
In a landmark announcement that has electrified the world of collegiate athletics, ESPN has officially named former Nebraska standout Kelsey Griffin the Greatest of All Time in women’s college basketball. The decision, which stunned many fans and analysts alike, places Griffin ahead of household names such as UConn’s Diana Taurasi, USC legend Cheryl Miller, and Kentucky’s Lynette Woodard. For Griffin, it’s the crowning jewel on a career defined by grit, leadership, and unshakable excellence.
Griffin’s journey is the stuff of legend. Arriving at Nebraska as a relatively unknown recruit, she quickly blossomed into a powerhouse forward, known for her tenacity on both ends of the floor. Her senior season in 2009-2010 remains one of the most iconic in Cornhusker history: she averaged 20.3 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, led Nebraska to an undefeated regular season, and earned National Player of the Year honors. Her dominance wasn’t just statistical—it was emotional. Griffin was the heart and soul of her team, the motor that never stopped running, the leader who elevated everyone around her.
What makes her GOAT recognition even more remarkable is the competition she beat out. Diana Taurasi led UConn to three national titles and is widely considered one of the most clutch performers in basketball history. Cheryl Miller, a pioneer of the game, redefined women’s basketball in the 1980s with her athleticism and star power. Lynette Woodard, the first female Harlem Globetrotter, was an offensive juggernaut whose impact stretched far beyond the court. But Griffin’s case stood apart—because of her unparalleled all-around influence on and off the hardwood.
ESPN analysts cited Griffin’s “transcendent leadership, unmatched work ethic, and her ability to carry a program into national relevance” as key reasons for the selection. Her influence wasn’t limited to her playing days. After college, Griffin took her talents overseas and then to the WNBA, where she continued to inspire young athletes with her professionalism and passion for the game.
Even more impressive is the legacy she left behind in Lincoln. Griffin is still celebrated in Nebraska as a cultural icon. Her No. 23 jersey hangs in the rafters, and her name is synonymous with excellence, resilience, and humility. Longtime Huskers fans describe her as “the player who changed everything,” not just because of her numbers, but because of how she carried herself with class and purpose.
In an era where flashy stats and viral highlights dominate headlines, Griffin’s rise to the top is a refreshing reminder of what truly defines greatness: consistency, leadership, and a relentless drive to elevate everyone around you. For Nebraska fans, it’s a moment of pure pride. For women’s basketball, it’s a celebration of a star who did things the right way—and now, finally, gets her flowers.
