​In 2026, it’s difficult to define what a small forward is in basketball. Most rosters at the college and professional level don’t even bother to use specific designations anymore — almost everyone is either simply a guard or a forward.But the great ones always stand out.The all-time best small forwards ooze versatility and two-way play. They can score inside and out, then guard multiple positions on the other end. They can swish a 3-pointer with ease, or back down an opponent in the paint for a shot at the rim. They have the speed to keep up with point guards, the size and toughness to defend centers inside and the basketball IQ to read a defense, jump in front of a pass and zoom up the court for an easy transition bucket.Ahead of the 2012 Olympics, then-Team USA head coach Geno Auriemma had a hard time summing up all the things that made Tamika Catchings awesome.”When you mention Tamika and say what is she great at? She just plays harder than everybody else,” Auriemma said. “She competes harder. I’ve always admired that in her.”In 2015, WNBA coaches couldn’t stop complimenting Elena Delle Donne.“She is 6-foot-5, and she can shoot. She is a flat-out unbelievable shooter,” said Bill Laimbeer, then head coach of the New York Liberty. “Always stay in her space and never, ever leave her.”Pokey Chatman, then head coach of the Chicago Sky added: “The skill set is magnificent, the balance and control. But it’s this intellect that I think separates her.”Others, like Sheryl Swoopes and Maya Moore, were so exceptional they drew comparisons to Michael Jordan. The greatest small forwards have often led their teams to championships, often playing the role of both go-to scorer and defensive stopper.As the WNBA celebrates its 30th season, USA TODAY Sports is counting down the 10 best players at every position. These are the greatest small forwards of all-time:10. Kahleah CopperWashington Mystics (2016), Chicago Sky (2017-2023), Phoenix Mercury (2024-Present)The 6-foot-1 product of Philadelphia, Kahleah Copper was a bit of a late bloomer. She didn’t make her first All-Star team until her sixth season in the league in 2021. That was the same year she would prove to be a crucial component to the Chicago Sky capturing their first and only WNBA title. In those Finals — a 3-1 win for the Sky over the Mercury — Copper averaged 17 points, 5.5 rebounds, a steal and an assist as her relentless energy powered Chicago. Copper has since been named to four All-Star teams, was an All-WNBA selection in 2024 and owns an Olympic gold medal.9. Jackie YoungLas Vegas Aces (2019-Present)The No. 1 overall pick out of Notre Dame in 2019, Jackie Young gave up her final season of college basketball to enter the WNBA and quickly proved that she was pro-ready by making the All-Rookie team. Alongside Chelsea Gray and A’ja Wilson, Young has been a key contributor to the Aces’ three championship wins. Not yet 30, she’s already a two-time All-WNBA selecti