The Unseen Revolution: The Rise of Women's Basketball

On a Monday night, April 1, 2024, the world turned its gaze towards an event many would have scoffed at just decades ago. Women's basketball, once a mere whisper in the vast din of sports, stood proudly at the forefront of global attention. If someone had suggested back in 1990, when I first ventured into coaching girls, that girls' basketball would one day eclipse many other sports in popularity and significance, I might have doubted their sanity. Yet, here we are, witnessing the monumental growth of a game that has proven itself to be as boundless and captivating as any.

Reflecting on my journey, I recall the days when my support for women's basketball was nonexistent, my focus and admiration solely pinned on the boys' game. It's a truth that haunts me, the level of disregard I had shown, encapsulating a wider societal oversight. Back then, my dream was simple: coach boys in basketball. Little did I know, fate had a different plan, charting a course that would redefine my life and my understanding of sport and the need to create understanding to negate bias.

Being blessed with two daughters at the time, my initial narrow vision — not immediately seeing them as potential basketball players — was quickly overshadowed by a profound realization. This wasn't a matter of disappointment in having daughters; rather, it was short-sightedness on my part about not seeing the vast possibilities their futures could hold in basketball. My daughters became my gateway to the girls’ game, a realm I had once ignored, only to discover its unparalleled richness and the extraordinary athletes who played it. Through them, I learned that greatness, indeed has no gender.

This journey was not without its battles. I remember the days when women's basketball was often sidelined, mocked, and disrespected. The disdain some held for the women's game was palpable. I recall listening to Jim Rome, a smack-talking radio host of the early 90’s who would slam women's basketball at every opportunity. His words were a bitter pill, diminishing the achievements of pros like Lisa Leslie and other greats of the time. It infuriated me to the point where I called the station and wrote letters in protest. Rome's narrative was not unique but echoed a broader societal bias rooted in ignorance. If I had it my way, I would have gone Draymond Green on him, but instead, I chose the route of Martin Luther King's non-violence and beat them with the pen, voice, and protesting.

The landmark passage of Title IX in 1972 set the stage for the following revolutionary changes, ensuring equal opportunities for women in sports and education. This legislation became a cornerstone for the rise of women's athletics, laying down the principle that gender should not be a barrier to achieving excellence in any field, including sports. My mother, a basketball player at Prairie View A&M in the 1950s in Texas, exemplified the early pioneers who showcased the potential of women in sports despite the lack of formal support systems that Title IX would later provide. Her legacy to us and the opportunities created by Title IX inspired generations to come.

In 1996, the formation of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) marked a significant milestone, providing a professional platform for women's basketball and showcasing their talent on a global stage. This momentous development highlighted the prowess of female athletes and emphasized the commercial viability and appeal of women's basketball, inspiring countless young girls to dream big and pursue their passion for the game. One may argue the WNBA is currently at its height after battling to gain attention for almost 30 years.

Pat Summitt, a legendary figure in women's basketball, encapsulated the spirit of perseverance and excellence that has driven the sport forward. "No one feels strong when she examines her own weakness. But in facing weakness, you learn how much there is in you, and you find real strength," Summitt once said (A-Z Quotes). Her wisdom and leadership have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring athletes, coaches, and all those involved in women's basketball to strive for greatness.

I grew into my role, coaching and championing young girls on the basketball court, I was struck by the sheer joy and raw talent they brought to every game. The narrative around women's basketball began to shift, gaining momentum, attention, and respect. This wasn't just a change in societal attitudes but a testament to the tireless efforts of countless individuals who had long believed in the potential of women's basketball. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed to all the coaches, volunteers, and pioneers of the women's game. Before the lights, the cameras, and the global accolades, you saw the beauty and potential in women's basketball. Your unwavering commitment laid the foundation for this moment, a moment where girls' basketball commands the world's stage, celebrated not as an alternative but as an integral and thrilling aspect of sports.

This rise is not merely about recognition but about breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. Basketball, irrespective of gender, is a spectacle of human creativity and spirit. It's a lesson I learned personally, as coaching girls' basketball became more than a profession—it became a connection to my daughters and a newfound appreciation for a game that transcends boundaries.

As we stand in 2024, witnessing the ascension of women's basketball, it's clear the journey is far from over. The goalposts of equality and recognition continue to move, but the progress is undeniable. From the dimly lit gyms of the past to the vibrant arenas of today, women's basketball has carved its path, illuminated by the sheer will and talent of its players and advocates. The pioneering efforts of those who came before us, the transformative impact of Title IX, and the global stage provided by the WNBA have all played pivotal roles in this journey.

In closing, my message is one of gratitude and hope. To my granddaughters—three vibrant souls under five years old with boundless hoop dreams ahead if they choose—and every young girl who dreams of playing basketball: the court is yours, and the world is watching. Embrace those dreams with all the vigor and passion within you. The legacy of women's basketball is not just about those who have played and paved the way; it's also about the future generations who will carry the torch, breaking down barriers and setting new records.

It's so funny that every major success over time is a result of pioneers who suffered through the early years so that one day, we could celebrate you as we did last night on April Fools' Day. However, these young women and girls are no longer being played the fool. As we celebrate women's basketball's achievements today, let's also pledge to continue supporting, promoting, and investing in it. Let's ensure that every young girl who picks up a basketball feels empowered to pursue her dreams, knowing that she stands on the shoulders of giants. The future of women's basketball is bright, and together, we will continue to illuminate the path forward, one game, one player, and one dream at a time.