Born: 1967 (San Antonio, Texas)
Biography:
Clarissa Davis Wrightsil, also known as Clarissa Davis, is a former Texas women’s basketball All-American who left an indelible mark on the sport. Born on June 4, 1967, in San Antonio, Texas, Clarissa’s love for basketball was evident from a young age. She honed her skills under the guidance of coach Mike Floyd at John Jay High School before taking her talents to the University of Texas.
At the University of Texas, Clarissa Davis made a lasting impact on the basketball world. Throughout her collegiate career, she showcased exceptional talent and leadership on the court. Clarissa was a two-time winner of the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 1987 and 1989, solidifying her status as one of the best players in the nation. Her outstanding performances earned her the prestigious Wade Trophy in 1989.
During her senior year in 1988-1989, Clarissa Davis reached new heights of excellence. She was named Naismith College Player of the Year, USBWA Women’s National Player of the Year, WBCA Player of the Year, and Mercedes Benz National Player of the Year. In addition, she garnered recognition as a two-time Kodak All-American and Naismith All-American.
Clarissa’s impact extended far beyond individual accolades. As a freshman in 1986, she played a pivotal role in leading the University of Texas to an undefeated season and an NCAA Championship victory. Her exceptional performance earned her the Most Outstanding Player honors at the Final Four. Throughout her collegiate career, she led Texas to the NCAA Final Four in 1987 and the Elite Eight twice in 1988 and 1989.
Recognized as a trailblazer in women’s basketball, Clarissa Davis’s contributions did not go unnoticed. She was honored as a member of both the NCAA and the Southwest Conference Team of the Decade for the 1980s. Additionally, she was named the SWC’s Athlete of the Decade, solidifying her impact on the sport during that era.
Clarissa Davis graduated from the University of Texas in 1989, earning a bachelor’s degree in Communications. Her success and influence on the game of basketball continued beyond college, as she ventured into the professional realm. She played basketball in Europe with Galatasaray Istanbul and Fenerbahçe Istanbul in Turkey, winning Turkish Championships with both rival clubs. In 1991, she also emerged victorious in the EuroLeague Women.
In recognition of her exceptional career and lasting impact on women’s basketball, Clarissa Davis was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in April 2006. She was one of six inductees in the Class of 2006, which included four former players and two coaches. This honor solidifies her place among the greatest to ever play the game.
Clarissa Davis Wrightsil’s dedication, talent, and achievements have forever shaped the world of women’s basketball. Her remarkable career serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, as she shattered barriers and demonstrated the immense potential of women in sports.
Awards:
– Naismith College Player of the Year (1987, 1989)
– Wade Trophy (1989)
– Naismith College Player of the Year (1988-1989)
– USBWA Women’s National Player of the Year (1988-1989)
– WBCA Player of the Year (1988-1989)
– Mercedes Benz National Player of the Year (1988-1989)
– Kodak All-American (1987, 1989)
– Naismith All-American
– Most Outstanding Player at the 1986 Final Four
– Inductee, Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2006)