TOP 10 BEST NETBALL PLAYERS IN THE WORLD 2023
In the electrifying realm of Netball, where every pass, every pivot, and every goal resonates with intensity, the spotlight shines brightly on the top ten best netball players in 2023.
These remarkable athletes embody the essence of skill, determination, and teamwork, showcasing their unparalleled skills on the court. With unwavering focus, they navigate the fast-paced battles, leaving spectators in awe and opponents in their wake.
These players have mastered the art of finesse and agility in a game defined by strategic manoeuvres and split-second decisions. Their names resound through arenas and conversations, their stories interwoven with the fabric of the sport itself.
So, here we are back with another top ten list from the world of Netball. Remember, this list is based on recent performances and in no particular order. What do you think about it? We would love to hear from you.
LIZ WATSON (AUSTRALIA) – MID-COURTER
The Australian netball sensation Liz Watson is a famous name in the netball world due to her extraordinary talent and leadership qualities. She has proven her mettle on and off the court as a key player for the Melbourne Vixens in Suncorp Super Netball and the captain of the Australia national team.
Liz Watson’s journey has been studded with incredible achievements. She proudly represented Australia, contributing to the team’s victories that clinched silver medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the 2019 Netball World Cup.
But that’s not all – Watson’s star power shines through as a two-time recipient of the prestigious Liz Ellis Diamond Award in 2018 and 2022. She played a huge role in winning the 2023 netball World Cup held in South Africa; thus, she’s in the top spot in our list of the top 10 best netball players in the world in 2023.
JHANIELE FOWLER (JAMAICA) – GOAL SHOOTER
Jhaniele Fowler is a towering figure in the netball world, both in stature and achievements. She has an indelible mark on the world of Netball. Born on 21 July 1989, Fowler’s journey has been one of determination, skill, and inspiration. Fowler holds the distinction of being the highest-paid netball player in the world.
Jhaniele Fowler is the all-time leading goal scorer in Netball World Cup history, with 538 goals scored. She has played in 4 World Cups, in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023. She won a silver medal in 2015 and 2019 and a bronze medal in the 2011 and 2023 netball World Cup. She is in the 2nd spot in our list of the top 10 best netball players in the world in 2023.
HELEN HOUSBY (ENGLAND) – GOAL ATTACK
Helen Housby is a well-known name in the world of Netball. She is considered one of the most talented and accomplished netball players globally, with a passion for the sport that began at a young age. Born in England, Housby has become a household name in the world of sports.
In 2016, Helen Housby began her professional netball career with the New South Wales Swifts in the Australian Netball League. Her debut season saw her help the team reach the semi-finals. Housby played a crucial role in England’s first-ever Commonwealth Games gold medal in Netball the following year.
She scored the goal in the game’s final seconds, securing a historic victory for England. Housby continued her impressive form in the Suncorp Super Netball league, helping the New South Wales Swifts win the championship in 2019. She was named the MVP of the Grand Final and also received the Player of the Match award in the final game of the World Cup that same year.
SHAMERA STERLING (JAMAICA) – DEFENDER
Presenting the radiant presence of Shamera Sterling, an incredible force in the kingdom of Netball, hailing from Jamaica. Born on 21 October 1995, Sterling’s journey as a netball player is nothing short of inspiring, marking her as one of the best netballers in the world.
A key member of the Jamaican squad, she played an instrumental role in securing a coveted bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 Netball World Cup, showcasing her skill on the international stage. She has become an integral part of Sunshine Girls.
COURTNEY BRUCE (AUSTRALIA) – DEFENDER
Courtney Bruce, a towering presence on the court, combines her exceptional athleticism with a keen intellect, solidifying her position as the ultimate netball player in the world. Her journey to greatness is marked by a remarkable record of over 100 national league games, a testament to her enduring dedication and skill.
Her uncanny ability to intercept the game’s flow sets Bruce apart, effectively disrupting the opposing team’s strategies. With a commanding presence and sharp instincts, she consistently outshines her peers, showcasing her skills as a defensive force to be reckoned with.
STEPH WOOD (AUSTRALIA) – GOAL ATTACK
Born on 28 November 1991, Stephanie Wood, also known as Steph Wood, emerged as a prominent figure in Australian Netball. She is a former Australian Netball international and serves as a key player for the Sunshine Coast Lightning in the Super Netball competition.
Stephanie Wood played pivotal roles in Australia’s gold medal victories at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2023 Netball World Cup.
Since 2017, she has been an indispensable asset to the Sunshine Coast Lightning within the Suncorp Super Netball league. Her involvement spanned five consecutive grand finalist squads from 2015 to 2019, resulting in triumphant premiership wins with the Sunshine Coast Lightning in 2017 and 2018.
GRACE NWEKE (NEW ZEALAND) – GOAL SHOOT
Hailing from New Zealand and born to Nigerian parents, the towering shooter Grace Nweke accomplished a remarkable feat as a teenager, becoming the inaugural player of African descent to represent the Silver Ferns proudly.
Nweke’s ascent in the world of Netball was nothing short of meteoric. Her journey commenced in 2019 when she swiftly transformed from a schoolgirl to a full-fledged member of the Mystics playing squad, progressing from a training partner role. Standing tall at 1.93 meters, her exceptional skills came to the fore in the dynamic 2021 season, during which she set a new scoring record in the ANZ Premiership.
Nweke played a pivotal role in the Silver Ferns’ triumphant journey to secure the bronze medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games
. With her growth trajectory and remarkable potential, Grace Nweke stands on the precipice of becoming one of the illustrious figures in the sport, destined to leave an indelible mark among the game’s luminaries.
MADDY PROUD (AUSTRALIA) – MIDCOURTER
Rooted in the vibrant city of Adelaide, Proud’s journey finds its origin and growth. A true hometown hero, she was nurtured in this lively backdrop.
Maddy’s influence shines brightly in Suncorp Super Netball, where she has taken the helm as the captain of the NSW Swifts since 2019.
Despite facing a challenging setback in the form of an ACL injury in 2019, Maddy’s resilience and determination came to the forefront.
This resurgence has been the cornerstone of her journey, establishing her as a consistent powerhouse on the court. Renowned for her unmatched enthusiasm, Maddy is widely acknowledged as one of the most fervent players in the Super Netball league.
GABI SIMPSON (AUSTRALIA) – MID-COURTER
At the sight of Gabi Simpson approaching, opposition players brace themselves for a challenging and enduring night on the court. Her presence alone signifies a formidable obstacle, as she can effectively nullify her opponents’ contributions.
As an essential component of the Queensland Firebirds midcourt ensemble, Simpson’s impact is undeniable, underscored by her consecutive championship triumphs with the team in 2015 and 2016.
In 2013, Gabi Simpson joined forces with her close friend Kim Ravaillion to bolster the Firebirds’ ranks. Since then, she has remained the bedrock of the club, consistently embodying its values and ethos. Her tenure saw her lead as the club captain from 2017 to 2021,
KIMBERLEY RAVAILLION (AUSTRALIA) MID-COURTER
Hailing from Australia, she has left an indelible mark on the international netball scene. With accolades including gold medals from the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the 2015 and 2023 Netball World Cup, as well as a silver from the 2018 Commonwealth Games, Ravaillion’s competency is undeniable, thus making her one of the top ten best netball players in 2023.
Ravaillion made her senior debut for the Australian team during a series against England in January 2013. This swift ascent into the international arena foreshadowed her remarkable journey in top-tier leagues. Mere months later, she graced the courts as a member of the Queensland Firebirds.
FAQS
Super Netball is the premier professional netball league in Australia. It features elite teams from various Australian cities competing in a high-level competition.
No, dunking is not allowed in Netball. Players cannot touch the hoop or the net; shooting must be done without leaving the ground.
Netball is a team sport where players aim to score goals by passing and shooting the ball into the opponent’s netball hoop. Movement, passing, and shooting are all integral parts of the game.
A netball team consists of seven positions: Goal Shooter (GS), Goal Attack (GA), Wing Attack (WA), Centre (C), Wing Defence (WD), Goal Defence (GD), and Goal Keeper (GK).
