Born: 1960
Biography:
Beverly Bev Smith, born on April 4, 1960, is a Canadian basketball player and coach who has left a lasting impact on the sport. From her successful college basketball career to her achievements as a coach and her contributions to the Canadian national team, Smith has established herself as a prominent figure in women’s basketball history.
Smith’s journey began on the courts of the University of Oregon, where she played college basketball for the Oregon Ducks. Her exceptional skills and determination quickly earned her recognition, and she was named a Women’s Basketball Coaches Association All-American in both 1981 and 1982. During her college career, Smith played a pivotal role in leading the Ducks to the NCAA tournament in 2004, marking her second 20-win season. Their impressive run included finishing second in the Pacific-10 Conference and defeating Texas Christian University to advance to the second round.
During her time at Oregon, Smith set multiple school records, further cementing her legacy within the program. She held records for points in a game, points in a season, points in a career, rebounds in a game, rebounds in a season, rebounds in a career, and assists in a career. With her contributions, the Ducks had an overall record of 93-19, showcasing Smith’s exceptional talent and impact on the team.
After her college career, Smith continued to make waves in the basketball world. She played for Italian clubs Vicenza (1982-1985, 1989–1990) and Ferrara (1986-1988), where she secured three Italian championships and two European Cups. Her success overseas further solidified her status as one of the leading figures in the sport.
In 2001, Smith’s journey transitioned from player to coach when she took on the role of women’s basketball program head coach at the Oregon Ducks. Stepping into the position after the controversial departure of coach Jody Runge, Smith faced high expectations. Despite the challenges, she led the team with determination and passion for eight seasons, from 2001 to 2009.
Under Smith’s leadership, the Oregon Ducks experienced both triumphs and milestones. In 2002, the team won the Women’s National Invitation Tournament Championship, showcasing Smith’s strategic coaching abilities. In 2005, they secured a first-round victory in the NCAA tournament, further highlighting the team’s growth and potential. The 2007 team received a bye in the WNIT and won a second-round game, displaying their continued success under Smith’s guidance.
Smith’s coaching career also extended beyond the college level. She served as an assistant coach for the Canadian Women’s National Team, making significant contributions to their success. Her commitment and expertise played a crucial role in the team’s achievements, including back-to-back gold medals in 2015 at the Pan American Games in Toronto and the FIBA Americas in Edmonton. Thanks to their victories, the Canadian Women’s National Team secured a spot in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, a testament to Smith’s ability to inspire and motivate her players.
Throughout her career, Bev Smith has been celebrated for her remarkable contributions to women’s basketball. She is a member of the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame, recognizing her impact on the sport at a national level. In 2004, Smith’s achievements were further honored when she was elected to the prestigious Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in Knoxville, Tennessee. These accolades serve as a testament to her lasting legacy and influence on women’s basketball history.
Awards:
– Women’s Basketball Coaches Association All-American in 1981 and 1982
– Italian championships and European Cups with Vicenza and Ferrara
– Women’s National Invitation Tournament Championship with the Oregon Ducks in 2002
– Back-to-back gold medals at the Pan American Games and FIBA Americas with the Canadian Women’s National Team in 2015
– Member of the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame
– Inductee of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004