Born: 1959 (Wichita, Kansas)
Biography:
Lynette Woodard, born on August 12, 1959, is a retired American basketball player who has left an indelible mark on the sport. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest female basketball players in history and has made significant contributions both on and off the court. Woodard’s accomplishments have earned her a place in the prestigious Basketball Hall of Fame and Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
Woodard’s journey to basketball greatness began at Wichita North High School, where she displayed remarkable talent and led her team to two state basketball titles. Her exceptional skills and leadership on the court garnered attention from college scouts across the nation.
In 1978, Woodard joined the University of Kansas (KU) and became a four-time All-American during her tenure. She proved to be an unstoppable force, averaging an impressive 26 points per game and scoring a total of 3,649 points throughout her four years at KU. Woodard’s remarkable achievements were duly recognized, and she became the first KU woman to have her jersey retired. She also holds the distinction of being major college basketball’s career women’s scoring leader.
Woodard’s talent extended beyond the college level. In 1984, she made history as a member of the United States’ women’s basketball team that won the gold medal at the Los Angeles Olympic Games. Her exceptional performance on the international stage further solidified her status as a basketball legend.
In 1985, Woodard shattered barriers by becoming the first woman to join the Harlem Globetrotters. This groundbreaking achievement showcased her incredible skills and paved the way for future female athletes.
Throughout her career, Woodard continued to excel, even as she reached more advanced stages of her professional life. At the age of 38, she made a historic comeback, becoming one of the oldest members of the newly formed Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Her perseverance and dedication to the sport were evident as she defied age expectations and became an inspiration to aspiring athletes.
Woodard’s remarkable career led to numerous accolades and honors. In 1989, she was inducted into the National High School Hall of Fame, recognizing her outstanding achievements in high school basketball. She was further honored in 1990 when she was inducted into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as one of the state’s greatest athletes.
Woodard’s impact extended beyond her playing days. After retiring from professional basketball in 1999, she returned to KU as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball team. Her wealth of knowledge and experience served as a valuable asset to the team and helped shape the next generation of athletes.
In addition to her coaching role, Woodard served as the Athletics Director for the Kansas City, Missouri School District from 1992 to 1994. This position allowed her to make a significant impact on the lives of young athletes, helping them develop their skills and build a strong foundation for their futures.
Woodard’s unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions to the sport were recognized in 2004 when she was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor solidified her place among basketball’s greatest players. The following year, she was also inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, further cementing her status as a true pioneer in the game.
Woodard’s remarkable career and trailblazing achievements continue to inspire female athletes around the world. She exemplifies determination, resilience, and a passion for the game, leaving a lasting legacy in women’s basketball history.
Awards:
– Gold Medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games with the United States’ women’s basketball team.
– Inductee of the National High School Hall of Fame in 1989.
– Inductee of the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in 1990.
– Inductee of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2004.
– Inductee of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005.
– Recipient of the 2015 WBCBL Women’s Professional Basketball Trailblazer Award.