Born: 1967 (Martinsburg, West Virginia)
Biography:
Victoria Andrea Bullett, born on October 4, 1967, is an American former professional basketball player and current women’s basketball head coach at West Virginia Wesleyan College. Throughout her career, she played for the Charlotte Sting and Washington Mystics in the WNBA, as well as for various European and South American professional teams, the U.S. Olympic team, and the University of Maryland Terrapins. With her versatility on the court, Bullett played at different positions including center, small forward, and power forward. She was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011, solidifying her status as one of the most influential figures in the sport.
Born and raised in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Bullett developed her love for basketball playing with her six brothers in their backyard. It was her older brother who coached her high school basketball team and helped attract the attention of collegiate scouts. Notably, Bullett’s younger brother, Scott, went on to play Major League Baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates and Chicago Cubs in the 1990s, showcasing the athletic talent that runs in the family.
Bullett’s basketball journey continued at the University of Maryland, where she became one of the most decorated players in the history of the women’s basketball program. From 1985 to 1989, Bullett captivated fans with her impressive performances on the court. Throughout her college career, she averaged 16.9 points per game and 8.5 rebounds per game, making a significant impact for the Terrapins. Setting multiple records, Bullett became the program’s all-time leading scorer, leading in field goals made and rebounds recovered. Her contributions were instrumental in helping the Terrapins secure three ACC titles and reach one NCAA Final Four. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, Bullett was named ACC Tournament MVP and ACC Player of the Year in 1989, as well as a Kodak All-American. She was also selected for the All-ACC First Team in 1987, 1988, and 1989. Maryland honored her legacy by retiring her jersey number (#23) after she graduated.
While Bullett excelled on the court, she was equally dedicated to her education. She earned a bachelor’s degree in general studies from the University of Maryland and later returned to school to pursue an additional degree in social work. Strengthening her knowledge in the field of sports coaching, she graduated with a master’s degree from the United States Sports Academy in 2015.
Bullett’s exceptional talent and leadership qualities extended beyond the collegiate level. She had the honor of representing the United States on multiple occasions, including her selection to the 1988 and 1992 United States Olympic Teams. Notably, Bullett’s prowess contributed to the team’s capture of gold and bronze medals in those respective years. She also played a vital role in the 1986 USA Select team, the United States team that secured the gold medal at the 1990 World Championships, and the United States team at the 1990 Goodwill Games.
In 1990, Bullett became a member of the USA National team that competed at the World Championships held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The team showcased their dominance by winning their opening round games with relative ease, demonstrating their superiority on the international stage. Bullett’s contributions to the team solidified her reputation as a skilled player and brought great pride to the United States.
With an illustrious career spanning professional leagues, international competitions, and collegiate dominance, Vicky Bullett’s impact on women’s basketball is undeniable. Her abilities as an athlete, combined with her dedication to education and coaching, have cemented her as an influential figure in the sport’s history. Through her accomplishments, Bullett has inspired generations of aspiring female basketball players, encouraging them to pursue their dreams with determination and passion.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2011.
– Named ACC Tournament MVP in 1989.
– Named ACC Player of the Year in 1989.
– Selected for the All-ACC First Team in 1987, 1988, and 1989.
– Member of the ACC Women’s Basketball 50th Anniversary team in 2003.
– Named an ACC Women’s Basketball Legend in 2007.
– Inducted into the Maryland Athletics Walk of Fame.