Kara Elizabeth Wolters (born August 15, 1975) is a retired American collegiate and professional basketball player and a current sports broadcaster. Standing at six feet seven inches (2.01 m) and nicknamed Big Girl, she is the tallest player in the University of Connecticut women’s basketball history and one of the tallest women to ever play in the WNBA. Wolters had an illustrious career, achieving numerous championships and accolades.
Wolters was born the youngest child of Liz and William Wolters and grew up in a basketball family. Her mother, Liz, once scored 50 points in one game at Wellesley High, more than any Massachusetts high school player before. Her father, known as Willie, is in the Boston College Hall of Fame and was an eighth-round Seattle SuperSonics draft pick in the 1967 NBA draft who later worked as an insurance lawyer. Wolters has always worn the uniform number 52, the same number as her father, as a tribute. Her maternal grandfather played Minor League Baseball in the New York Yankees system.
Already standing at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 m) in eighth grade, Wolters continued to grow rapidly during her career at Holliston High School, where she still retains the school’s scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots records. Despite her impressive talent, she faced bullying and was ignored by some college recruiters who thought her body type was a negative attribute for basketball. Nevertheless, Wolters persevered, demonstrating her strength and determination from an early age.
Wolters played for the women’s basketball team at the University of Connecticut from 1993 to 1997. She was a key member of the 1995 team that won the NCAA Women’s Division I Basketball Championship, capping a perfect 35–0 season. Wolters’ UConn team compiled an outstanding 132–8 record (94.3%) throughout her college career, showcasing her exceptional skill and leadership on the court.
Her talent and hard work did not go unnoticed, as Wolters received numerous accolades during her college career. In 1997, she was named the AP College Player of the Year, cementing her status as one of the best players in the country. Wolters’ contributions to the University of Connecticut women’s basketball program will forever be remembered as she remains one of the most successful players in its history.
Following her successful college career, Wolters transitioned to the professional basketball stage. She played for various teams in the WNBA, becoming a league champion in 1999. Moreover, Wolters represented the United States in international competitions, winning the FIBA World Championship in 1998 and an Olympic gold medal in 2000. Her exceptional performance and dedication to the sport elevated her to the status of one of the 11 women who have achieved such remarkable basketball accolades.
After retiring from professional basketball, Wolters pursued a career in broadcasting. She started as a radio color commentator for women’s basketball on WTIC (AM). Since 2012, Wolters has served as the in-studio analyst for women’s basketball on SNY. Her deep knowledge and understanding of the game have made her a respected and insightful voice in the sport.
In addition to her broadcasting career, Wolters remains connected to the sport through her Kara Wolters Dream Big Basketball Camp in Connecticut. The camp provides aspiring young athletes with the opportunity to learn from Wolters and develop their skills on and off the court. Her dedication to coaching and helping the next generation of players demonstrates her commitment to the sport’s growth and development.
Wolters’ impact on women’s basketball extends beyond her playing career and broadcasting contributions. Her perseverance and success in the face of adversity have inspired countless young athletes, especially those who may have faced similar challenges due to their physical attributes. Wolters has shown that hard work, dedication, and belief in oneself can lead to achieving great things and overcoming any obstacles.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport, Kara Wolters was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017. This honor solidifies her place among the legends of women’s basketball and acknowledges her significant impact on the game.
Awards:
– NCAA Women’s Division I Basketball Championship winner (1995)
– FIBA World Championship winner (1998)
– WNBA champion (1999)
– Olympic gold medalist (2000)
– AP College Player of the Year (1997)
– Inductee of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2017)