Teaira McCowan has become one of the most commanding forces in modern women’s basketball. At 6’7”, the Dallas Wings center is known for her overwhelming strength, elite rebounding, and quiet determination. But McCowan’s journey is far bigger than her size. It is a story shaped by resilience, family, identity, and the relentless work required to compete at the highest level.

This is the life, rise, and impact of Teaira McCowan, including the parts of her story most fans don’t know.

Early Life: A Gentle Giant in the Making

Born in Bryan, Texas, Teaira McCowan grew up towering over her peers. Her height made her stand out long before she ever picked up a basketball. What many people don’t know is that McCowan was extremely shy, often uncomfortable with the attention her height brought her.

Sports became a place where she could step into her own strength. With encouragement from coaches, she began to see her size not as a burden, but as a gift.

College Breakout at Mississippi State

McCowan became a national sensation at Mississippi State University, where she rapidly developed into one of the country’s most dominant players.

Her achievements include:

• Three-time All-SEC selection
• 2018 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year finalist
• 2018 NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player
• Led Mississippi State to back-to-back national championship game appearances

Behind the scenes, McCowan dedicated hours to conditioning, footwork drills, and strength training, often staying long after practice ended. Her work ethic became legendary on campus.

WNBA Journey: A Center Who Cannot Be Ignored

McCowan entered the WNBA as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 Draft, selected by the Indiana Fever. Her impact was immediate.

She earned a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team, quickly earning respect as one of the league’s most intimidating paint protectors. In 2022, she joined the Dallas Wings, where she found a team style that allowed her physical dominance to shine.

Her strengths include:

• Elite rebounding
• High-efficiency scoring near the rim
• Defensive IQ and rim protection
• Unmatched size and strength

What many fans don’t know is that McCowan’s confidence took years to develop. Early in her career, she often questioned whether she belonged at the pro level. Coaches say her transformation into a vocal leader has been one of her greatest accomplishments.

International Stardom: A Global Force

Beyond the WNBA, McCowan has become a standout overseas. Playing in clubs across Turkey and China, she has posted MVP-level numbers, often averaging double-doubles with ease.

Her international success not only elevated her profile, it became a major source of financial security. Like many WNBA players, McCowan plays year-round, competing overseas to supplement her salary. Her global career has shaped her into a more versatile and confident athlete.

What People Don’t Know: The Untold Side of Teaira McCowan

Off the court, McCowan is far more than a dominating center.

She struggled with confidence for years.
Despite her size and talent, she often felt overshadowed or underestimated early in her career.

She is extremely soft-spoken.
Fans expect her to be loud and aggressive, but teammates say she is calm, patient, and surprisingly funny.

She loves fashion.
McCowan has spoken about experimenting with style that celebrates her height instead of hiding it.

She is passionate about mentoring young girls.
She regularly speaks about body positivity and embracing physical differences.

These personal layers help explain why she has become a beloved figure in the WNBA community.

Legacy in Motion

Teaira McCowan continues to evolve as one of the most impactful players in the league. Her dominance in the paint, growing leadership, and authenticity off the court have made her a role model for young athletes, especially Black girls who see power and confidence reflected in her journey.

Her story is still being written, but one thing is clear: Teaira McCowan is shaping the future of women’s basketball with strength, grace, and unstoppable presence.