Born: 1964 (Cairo, Georgia)
Biography:
Teresa Edwards is an American former women’s basketball player and four-time Olympic gold medalist. She was born on July 19, 1964, in Cairo, Georgia. Edwards had an exceptional basketball career and is widely regarded as one of the greatest female athletes of the 20th century.
Edwards attended Cairo High School, where she made a name for herself as a standout player. She was a four-year starter and led her team to an impressive record of 58-3 in her junior and senior years. Edwards scored a total of 1,982 points during her high school career and was honored as the Georgia High School Player of the Year in 1982.
Continuing her basketball journey, Edwards joined the Georgia Lady Bulldogs basketball team at the University of Georgia. She became a two-time All-American and played a crucial role in leading her team to the Final Four in 1983 and 1985. In 1984, Edwards represented the United States in the Olympic Games, becoming the youngest member of the team and winning her first of four gold medals.
At Georgia, Edwards’s jersey number (#5) was retired, making her one of only three Lady Bulldog players to receive such an honor. She completed her degree in leisure studies in 1990.
After her college career, Edwards transitioned to the professional level and played for the Atlanta Glory in the American Basketball League (ABL). She showcased her skills both as a star player and head coach for the team. Edwards also had a short stint with the Philadelphia Rage in 1998.
In 1999, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) drafted Edwards. She was selected by the Minnesota Lynx at the urging of head coach Suzie McConnell Serio. Despite being at the later stages of her career, Edwards continued to make an impact on the court and contributed to her team’s success.
Outside of her domestic career, Edwards made a significant mark on the international stage. She competed in a remarkable five Olympic Games, from 1984 to 2000, earning four gold medals. Her contributions and achievements in women’s basketball led Sports Illustrated to rank her 22nd on their list of the 100 Greatest Female Athletes of the 20th Century in 2000.
Beyond her playing career, Edwards was appointed as the chef de mission for the 2012 Olympic Games by the US Olympic Committee. This role highlights her influence and leadership within the sports community. Additionally, in 2010, Edwards was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the sport.
In 2021, Edwards further shared her basketball journey by publishing an autobiographical audio book titled Black Gold. The book focuses on her Olympic experiences and provides insight into her illustrious career.
Teresa Edwards’s dedication, skill, and achievements have solidified her status as a trailblazer in women’s basketball. Her impact on the sport, both in the United States and internationally, continues to inspire future generations.
Awards:
– Four-time Olympic gold medalist in women’s basketball
– 22nd on Sports Illustrated’s list of the 100 Greatest Female Athletes of the 20th Century
– Inductee of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (2010)
– Inductee of the FIBA Hall of Fame (2013)