Biography:
Sue Wicks, born Susan Joy Wicks on November 26, 1966, is a former basketball player in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is known for her successful career with the New York Liberty from 1997 to 2002. Wicks’ impact on women’s basketball has been recognized with her induction into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013.
Born in Center Moriches, New York, Wicks began her basketball journey at Rutgers University from 1984 to 1988. During her time at Rutgers, she established herself as a dominant force on the court. Her exceptional skills and contributions to the team earned her the prestigious Kodak All-American title for three consecutive years in 1986, 1987, and 1988. Additionally, in 1988, she received accolades such as the Naismith, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, Women’s Basketball News Service, and Street & Smith’s National Player of the Year awards.
Wicks was a consistent standout in the Atlantic 10 Conference, where she was honored as the Player of the Year in 1986, 1987, and 1988. She displayed her talent on the biggest stage by winning the Atlantic 10 Tournament MVP award in 1986 and 1988, sharing the honor in 1987. Furthermore, she earned multiple All-Regional Team selections in the NCAA tournament in 1986 and 1987.
Throughout her college career, Wicks shattered numerous records at Rutgers. She still holds records for points scored (2,655), rebounds (1,357), scoring average (21.2 ppg), rebounding average (10.9 rpg), field goals made (1,091) and attempted (2,099), free throws made (473) and attempted (641), and blocked shots (293). Her scoring and rebounding totals remain unparalleled by any male or female player to this day.
Wicks’ success extended beyond the collegiate level. She won a gold medal in the 1987 Pan-American Games, representing the United States. Following her college career, she continued her basketball journey by playing professionally in Italy, Japan, Spain, and Israel, before the inception of the WNBA.
In 1997, Wicks seized the opportunity to sign with the New York Liberty for the inaugural season of the WNBA. Although initially serving as a back-up center, Wicks quickly established herself as a key player for the Liberty. Her contributions played a vital role in the team’s success. In her debut season, the Liberty advanced to the WNBA championship game but ended up falling short to the Houston Comets, losing 65-51.
Wicks’ professional career spanned six seasons, all of which were with the New York Liberty. Her dedication and skill made her a beloved figure in New York basketball. Over the course of her WNBA career, she demonstrated her versatility and impact on the court.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013