Born: 1941 (Kiefer, Oklahoma)
Biography:
Dixie Woodall, a remarkable figure in the world of basketball, has left an indelible mark on the sport through her impressive playing career and later as a highly successful coach. Born and raised in Kiefer, Oklahoma, Woodall’s love for the game began to blossom at a young age.
Woodall’s basketball journey took a significant turn when she enrolled at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) after graduating from Kiefer High School. During her time at NEO, Woodall showcased her exceptional skills on the court and garnered widespread recognition. Her talent shone bright when she was voted the Most Valuable Player of the prestigious Okmulgee All Indian Tournament.
As her college career progressed, Woodall’s dedication and prowess led to her being recognized as a three-time AAU All-American, an extraordinary accomplishment that reflected her incredible playing abilities. She took home this honorable title in 1964, 1966, and 1967, solidifying her status as one of the nation’s top basketball players.
Woodall’s talent extended beyond the college and national level. She had the honor of playing for the Nashville Business College’s AAU National Championship squad in 1960. Being a part of such an esteemed team showcased her versatility and showcased her ability to contribute to a successful collective effort at the highest level.
International basketball became another avenue for Woodall to showcase her skills on a grand stage. She represented the United States in various competitions, leaving an indelible mark on the global basketball scene. In 1965, Woodall proudly donned the U.S. jersey as she toured South America, demonstrating her abilities against top international competition. Two years later, she joined the USA squad at the FIBA World Championship and showcased her immense talent on a global scale.
Woodall’s contributions extended to the 1967 Pan American Games, where she earned a silver medal as a member of the USA squad. Her dedication and commitment to the sport, along with her exceptional skills, played an instrumental role in elevating the prestige and reputation of women’s basketball in the United States.
Transitioning from an outstanding player to a successful coach, Woodall’s impact continued to reverberate. In her coaching career, she amassed an impressive combined record of 390-97 over 14 seasons. She took the reins as a head coach at Seminole Junior College and Oral Roberts University, where her leadership and expertise guided her teams to achieve remarkable successes.
The pinnacle of Woodall’s coaching career came in 1976 when she led Seminole Junior College to a junior college national championship. This milestone achievement not only showcased her exceptional coaching abilities but also solidified her place among the coaching greats in women’s basketball.
Woodall’s influence extended beyond the confines of the court. Her dedication to the sport and her unparalleled contributions garnered recognition and accolades. In 1998, she received the esteemed honor of induction into the JUCO Hall of Fame, a testament to her outstanding achievements as a coach.
In 2005, Woodall’s remarkable legacy was further celebrated when she was inducted into the National Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. This prestigious recognition solidified her status as one of the trailblazers and influential figures in women’s basketball history. Woodall’s contributions continue to inspire generations of young athletes, as her incredible journey serves as a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the transformative power of sports.
Awards:
– MVP of the Okmulgee All Indian Tournament at NEO
– Three-time AAU All-American (1964, 1966, 1967)
– Played on the Nashville Business College’s 1960 AAU National Championship squad
– Silver medalist at the 1967 Pan American Games with the USA squad
– Inducted into the JUCO Hall of Fame in 1998
– Inducted into the National Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005
– Recognized as one of NEO’s Outstanding Alumni