Died: 2007
Biography:
Margaret Sexton Gleaves was a renowned basketball player in the 1940s and an influential figure in the sport’s history. Her remarkable skills and numerous achievements have made her a favorite subject of study for sport historians and basketball enthusiasts alike. As an eight-time All-American guard, Margaret achieved great success on the court, playing on five national championship teams and leaving a lasting impact on the game.
Born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, Margaret was a natural athlete from a young age. She showed great promise in basketball, and throughout her high school years at Bellevue High School, she lettered all four years and was selected as the team captain in her senior year. Her exceptional talent and leadership abilities were evident early on.
After graduating from high school, Margaret pursued her passion for basketball at Nashville Business College. During her time there from 1939 to 1942, she continued to excel, helping lead the team to a runner-up position in the AAU National Tournament in both 1940 and 1941. Her skills and dedication were recognized, and she was honored as an AAU All-American for Bellevue High School in 1939 and Nashville Business College from 1939 to 1942.
During World War II, Margaret joined the war effort and served as part of the Vultee Aircraft Bomberettes in 1944 and 1945. With Margaret’s contributions on the court, the team won two consecutive AAU national championships, further solidifying her status as a basketball legend. Her exceptional performance during this time earned her recognition and praise from teammates and rivals alike.
Following the war, Margaret continued her basketball career with Cooks Goldblumes from 1946 to 1949. She played a pivotal role in the team’s three national AAU championships and the runner-up position in 1947. Her offensive prowess combined with her tenacious defense made her a force to be reckoned with on the court and brought national attention to women’s basketball in Tennessee.
In 1948, Margaret had perhaps her most impressive season as she was awarded the Most Valuable Player in the National AAU Tournament. This prestigious recognition solidified her reputation as one of the most talented and influential players of her era. Her remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport showcased her dedication, passion, and exceptional basketball skills.
Margaret Sexton Gleaves’ impact on women’s basketball extended beyond her playing career. She and her teammates served as pioneers for today’s collegiate coaches and athletes, paving the way for future generations. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport, Margaret’s uniform now hangs in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
In 1966, Margaret Sexton Gleaves became one of the original inductees into the Helms Basketball Hall of Fame and was honored for her significant contributions to the game. Additionally, she was posthumously inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002, further solidifying her status as a basketball legend.
Margaret Sexton Gleaves passed away on December 31, 2007, at the age of 87. Her legacy as an exceptional basketball player and her immense contributions to the sport will forever be remembered and celebrated.
Awards:
– Inductee, Helms Basketball Hall of Fame (1966)
– Inductee, Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2002)