Basketball enthusiasts know Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, and Shaquille OíNeal. But few, probably only the students of the history of women’s basketball, know the names Babe Didrikson, Nera White, Lisa Leslie, Rebecca Lobo, Anne Donovan, Ann Meyers and Cheryl Miller. Though unpopular to the ears of many, these famous women basketball players are regularly heard in the history of women’s basketball. These women though, are not canonized by the general public. To most, they are just like stunt-women or passers-by in the movies – not even worth a glance.

A sport originally made for men, women tried hard to fit in. Starting with the pioneer Senda Berenson, lots of trials were assumed before making this sport ‘acceptable’ in colleges. The early years of basketball for women were not easy. Generally, when players play with each other, they were prohibited to dribble the ball. The only way to advance the ball is to pass it to another player using the hands. However, there were changes made in the game for women. Since this strenuous game would give women nervous fatigue, Berenson modified it. Her modified basketball rules were somehow odd. In her modified rules, the court was divided in three areas with nine players per team. Three players were assigned to each area (guard, center, forward) and could cross into another area if they liked. These rules were followed for a short time until it was again modified by sports committees. Now, there is not much difference between the rules of men and womenís basketball game.

What can be learned with the history of women’s basketball is the lesson of unwavering determination. The physical capability of men and women are different and engaging in this strenuous activity may lead to physical ailments. One more thing, there were probably some discrimination given to these women — discrimination which is supposed to result to low self-esteem. But with their unwavering determination, they showed the people that they can do what most men do. They dribbled and shoot and passed; they followed the rules. Sadly, people still do not recognize them and do not even think of these women when basketball is being included in the conversation. They remain as shadows of the famous basketball players.

Though unrecognized, these women still strive to be champions in their own ways. According to Rudy Tomjanovich, “Never underestimate the heart of a champion.” That’s what they did; they never underestimated themselves in spite of the pressures around.

These women may not be popular as Bryant and Jordan; but they are already champions in their own families and communities. Their names may not appear immediately when one searches ‘basketball players’ in the internet but their names are there, in the hearts of their loved ones. People may not remember them, but surely, every people in their household and community will do. These women, though not internationally renowned, have contributed to the sports of basketball by being a still small voice to the small people that know them personally.

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