Born: 1965 (Moscow, Idaho)
Biography:
Andrea Lane Lloyd, born on September 2, 1965, in Moscow, Idaho, is an American former professional basketball player who left an indelible mark on both the women’s game and society as a whole. As a testament to her exceptional skills and contributions to the sport, she was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007. Additionally, she served as a television analyst for the Minnesota Lynx and currently works as a television analyst for the MTN sports network with the Mountain West Conference.
Lloyd’s journey in basketball began in Alaska when she moved there with her family at the age of 12. However, three years later, she returned to Moscow, Idaho, in the middle of her sophomore year. Lloyd quickly rose to prominence in high school, earning the title of three-time Idaho high school player of the year. She led Moscow High School to state championships in 1981 and 1982, leaving an indelible mark on her alma mater. Her outstanding performances on the court also earned her a spot as a Parade magazine All-American in 1983.
Continuing her basketball journey at the University of Texas in Austin, Lloyd proved herself to be one of the top players in the nation. In her junior year, she played a pivotal role in leading the Longhorns to an undefeated season and a national title in 1986, showcasing her exceptional skills and leadership. Lloyd’s achievements on and off the court did not go unnoticed, solidifying her status as a true basketball icon.
Prior to her junior year at Texas, Lloyd had the honor of representing the USA team at the 1985 World University Games in Kobe, Japan. Although the team fell short of securing the gold medal, they brought home a silver medal after an inspiring display of resilience and skill. Lloyd’s contribution to the team was invaluable, averaging 6.0 points per game.
Lloyd’s international success continued in the 1988 Olympics held in Seoul, Korea. As a member of the USA women’s basketball team, she played a crucial role in helping the team secure the gold medal. Her impact and prowess on the court made her an integral part of the team’s success.
Not only did Lloyd excel in the Olympics, but she also represented the USA team in the Pan American Games, earning both gold and bronze medals in 1987 and 1991, respectively. These achievements solidified Lloyd’s reputation as an exceptional player with the ability to perform on the international stage.
Lloyd was selected to represent the USA again at the 1994 World Championships held in Sydney, Australia. Coached by Tara VanDerveer, the team started strong, winning their first six games. Although they faced a tough loss to Brazil in a closely contested match, they bounced back and secured the bronze medal by defeating Australia in a thrilling final. Lloyd’s contributions were significant, as she averaged 8.3 points per game during the tournament.
Transitioning to the professional realm, Lloyd-Curry played in the American Basketball League (ABL) with the Columbus Quest from 1996 to 1998. Her time in the ABL showcased her exceptional skills and competitiveness on the court. When the ABL dissolved, Lloyd-Curry joined the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA in 1999. However, her playing career was cut short after she tore the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee in 2000, marking a challenging and unfortunate end to her time as an active player.
Lloyd’s impact on the game of basketball cannot be overstated. Her exceptional skills, leadership, and dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on both the college and professional levels. Her contributions to the USA national team, including gold medals in the Olympics and Pan American Games, showcase her ability to perform on the biggest stages. Lloyd’s achievements have paved the way for future generations of female athletes, inspiring and empowering them to achieve greatness both on and off the court. Her dedication to the sport and her enduring impact on women’s basketball make her a true pioneer in the world of sports.
Awards:
– Inductee into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2007)