Here’s a look at Sylvia Fowles, one of the most formidable centers in women’s basketball history.
Biography & Career Highlights
Full Name: Sylvia Fowles
Date of Birth: October 6, 1985 (age 39)
Hometown: Miami, Florida, USA
College: Louisiana State University (LSU) (2004–2008)
At LSU, she set school and SEC records with 1,570 career rebounds, 86 double-doubles, over 2,000 points, and 321 blocks .
WNBA Career: Drafted 2nd overall in the 1st round of the 2008 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky. Played from 2008 to 2014 in Chicago and from 2015 to 2022 with the Minnesota Lynx .
Accolades & Legacy
WNBA Achievements:
2× WNBA Champion: 2015, 2017
2× WNBA Finals MVP: 2015, 2017
WNBA MVP: 2017
Defensive Prowess:
4× WNBA Defensive Player of the Year: 2011, 2013, 2016, 2021
Selected to multiple All-Defensive Teams across her career .
All-Star & All-WNBA Honors:
8× WNBA All-Star
All-WNBA First Team: 2010, 2013, 2017
All-WNBA Second Team: Multiple selections
Career Milestones:
Became the WNBA’s all-time leading rebounder in 2020, surpassing Rebekkah Brunson . As of August 2025, she ranks 2nd all-time with 4,007 rebounds .
Known for her elite field goal percentage — among the highest in league history .
Other Notables:
Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award: 2022
Minnesota Lynx retired her jersey: June 11, 2023
The team also introduced the Sylvia Fowles Altruism Award in her honor .
International Success:
4× Olympic Gold Medalist (2008, 2012, 2016, 2020 Quadrennial Games held in 2021)
FIBA World Champion: 2010
Transition & Hall of Fame Honors
Fowles retired in 2022 after a stellar 14-season career .
Recently selected for induction into both:
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (Class of 2025)
Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (Class of 2025)
Off the Court:
Post-retirement, Sylvia pursued her passion in mortuary science, working as a mortician—a unique and meaningful second career that showcases her depth and compassion .
Known for her humility, mentorship, and impact on the community throughout her career. Even in retirement, her influence in the sport continues through leadership and presence .
Summary: Sylvia Fowles’ Basketball Legacy
Sylvia Fowles is a towering figure in women’s basketball—both literally and in her impact. A dominant defensive force, rebounder extraordinaire, and decorated champion, she redefined excellence on the court. Off the court, her humble demeanor, mentorship, and second career in mortuary work reflect a remarkable character and holistic legacy. Her induction into both the Naismith and Women’s Hall of Fame is a testament to a career built on skill, consistency, and humanity.
