Born: April 14, 1958 (Abbeville, Mississippi)
Biography:
Peggie Gillom-Granderson is a former professional basketball player and coach, and currently serves as a chaplain at the University of Mississippi. Born on April 14, 1958, in Abbeville, Mississippi, Gillom’s passion for basketball was evident from a young age.
Gillom’s basketball journey began in high school, where she showcased her skills and dedication to the sport. Her talent earned her a spot on the Ole Miss Rebels women’s basketball team, where she played from 1976 to 1980. During her time at Ole Miss, Gillom achieved remarkable milestones and set career records for Mississippi.
As a co-captain of the women’s basketball team from 1979 to 1980, Gillom led her team with determination and skill. Her exceptional performance on the court earned her nominations for the prestigious Wade Trophy in 1979 and 1980. Furthermore, Gillom and her team emerged as champions in the Mississippi state championship held by the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women in 1978 and 1979.
Gillom’s success extended beyond the state level. She represented Ole Miss in the 1978 AIAW National Large College Basketball Championship, showcasing her talent on a national stage. With her remarkable records of 2,486 points and 1,271 rebounds, Gillom’s legacy at the University of Mississippi remained unchallenged for nearly forty years.
Upon graduating from Ole Miss in 1980 with a Bachelor of Social Work, Gillom embarked on a professional basketball career. She joined the Women’s Professional Basketball League, playing for the Dallas Diamonds from 1980 to 1981. Gillom’s skills and determination shone through as she transitioned from college basketball to the professional level.
Following her playing career, Gillom found her calling in coaching. In 1981, she returned to her alma mater as an assistant coach for the Ole Miss women’s basketball team. Gillom’s coaching skills and expertise were instrumental in the team’s success during her tenure, which lasted until 1997.
In 1997, Gillom seized a new opportunity by joining the Houston Comets coaching staff in the newly formed Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). As an assistant coach, Gillom played a crucial role alongside head coach Van Chancellor in leading the team to victory in the 1997 WNBA Championship.
Gillom’s coaching journey continued as she took on the role of head coach for the Texas A&M Aggies women’s basketball team from 1998 to 2003. Although faced with various challenges, Gillom’s determination and leadership resulted in 63 wins for the Aggies during her five-year tenure.
In 2003, Gillom returned to Mississippi, where she served as the associate head coach for the University of Mississippi women’s basketball team until 2008. Her knowledge, experience, and passion for the game greatly influenced the team’s success and development during that period.
Gillom’s impact extended beyond the collegiate level. In 1999, she served as an assistant coach for the American women’s basketball team that won the bronze medal at the Pan American Games. Her coaching skills were further recognized when she became a part of the coaching staff for the American women’s basketball team at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia, where they claimed the gold medal.
Throughout her career, Gillom has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to women’s basketball. In 1998, she was inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, solidifying her status as one of the state’s basketball legends. In 2013, Gillom’s remarkable achievements led to her induction into the prestigious Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
Today, Gillom continues to inspire and uplift others in her role as a chaplain at the University of Mississippi, where she has served since 2009. Her dedication and passion for the game, coupled with her strong spiritual guidance, make her a beacon of hope and inspiration for athletes and students alike.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame (1998)
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2013)