Napheesa Collier Reflects on Maya Moore’s Legacy Ahead of Hall of Fame Induction
As Maya Moore gets ready to join the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame later this year, Napheesa Collier, a bright star in today’s WNBA, took the time to contemplate what Moore has meant to her, both as a player and as a person.
“I was really lucky in that I got to follow her really closely,” Collier said. “We’re from the same hometown, went to the same college, and then the same professional team. So being able to watch her from when I was really little — especially in a time where women’s sports weren’t really on TV much — I felt really lucky.”
Collier saw Moore as more than just a basketball figure. She was a blueprint for others.
“She was one of the original stars of this newer generation. What she did on the court was incredible, but how she carried herself off the court made her even more special. She’s such a huge inspiration.”
Moore’s impact on the game cannot be overstated. Moore, a four-time WNBA champion, league MVP, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, quit the sport when she was at her peak to focus on criminal justice reform, which only heightened her legacy. Collier’s face lit up when she was asked to describe Moore to someone from the younger generation who may not have had the pleasure of witnessing her brilliance firsthand.
“I’d definitely encourage them to go watch her clips. Maya was just so fun to watch. She didn’t just score — she scored in fun ways. Super dynamic. Whether it was coming off a screen to knock down a three or that signature underhand layup she’d glide in with — everything she did was with this grace and confidence.”
Despite Moore’s highlight reel being a masterclass in scoring and clutch play, Collier pointed out that her impact goes beyond basketball.
“She’s someone people can look up to — on and off the court. Everything she stands for, the way she used her platform, her purpose — that’s something I think all of us, especially the younger generation, can learn from.”
Moore’s legacy is carried on by players such as Napheesa Collier, who strive to embody leadership, determination, and courage along with their stat lines.
“She’s a legend worth studying,” Collier said simply. “I’m just grateful I got to follow her journey up close.”
