Born: 1933 (Washington, Oklahoma)
Biography:
Lometa Ruth Odom was an American women’s basketball player and coach who made a significant impact on the sport. She was born on November 29, 1933, in Washington, Oklahoma, to David Hiram Odom and Opal Lee Odom. In 1948, the family relocated to Dimmitt, Texas, where Odom would begin her basketball journey.
At Dimmitt High School, Odom showcased her exceptional talent and led the school’s basketball team to incredible success. She played four seasons, scoring an impressive 4,022 points and averaging 41 points per game. Odom’s scoring prowess was truly remarkable, and in 1951, she set the Texas single-game scoring record with an astounding 78 points. She guided her high school team to three state titles from 1950 to 1952 and earned Texas All-State honors each of those seasons. Odom even achieved victories over the Iowa state champions, defeating Slater High in 1950 and Hansell High in 1951.
Continuing her basketball career, Odom joined the Wayland Baptist team in Plainview, Texas, from 1952 to 1956. The Wayland team faced off against women’s Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) teams, which were mostly semi-professional teams sponsored by businesses. Wayland Baptist convinced local businessman Claude Hutcherson to provide air transportation for the team’s away games, leading to the team being renamed the Hutcherson Flying Queens and becoming one of the most successful AAU women’s teams.
During her time at Wayland, Odom proved to be an exceptional player, helping her team achieve an impressive 115-5 record. She also played a crucial role in starting the team’s remarkable streak of 131 consecutive victories, which remained the longest winning streak in college and professional basketball history until 1958. Odom’s contributions on offense were unparalleled, and she became the first Wayland player to be named a four-time All-American.
Under Odom’s leadership, the Wayland team secured three AAU titles. In 1956, she was recognized as the AAU Tournament MVP, further solidifying her place as one of the finest players of her era. Two of her seasons at Wayland resulted in undefeated records, highlighting Odom’s impact on the team’s success. Moreover, Wayland teams set several school records that still stand today, including most season wins (37 in 1952-1953), consecutive wins (131 from 1953 to 1958), and best defensive average (29.4 points per game in 1954-1955).
Former Wayland coach Harley Redin spoke highly of Odom, praising her exceptional post play and impeccable fundamentals. Her ability to deceive opponents with fakes and consistently make accurate shots made her a standout player. Redin’s coaching also featured a rule prohibiting players from being married, as he believed it interfered with their focus and dedication to the game.
Odom’s achievements did not go unrecognized. In 2011, she was rightfully inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying her legacy as one of the pioneering figures in women’s basketball. Her exceptional skills, leadership, and dedication to the sport continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011