Maria Stepanova

Standing 6'8" tall, Maria Stepanova is a former Russian professional basketball player whose height made her a dominant presence on the court. Born in Mikhaylovsk, Stavropol Krai, she began her career in 1998 at age 19 and played actively for a decade until 2008. She is Russian and of Caucasian ethnicity, with blonde hair. In the United States, she played for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA, and she also competed as an Olympic athlete. Her career spanned both domestic and international stages. At 187 lbs, she combined size with agility. Now 47, she remains recognized for her contributions to the sport. You can see photos from her playing days and more on this page.