Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

Official newspaper of The University of Texas at Austin

The Daily Texan

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October 4, 2022
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Tina Thompson receives Hall of Fame selection

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Juan Figueroa

The Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame inducted its newest member on Monday night, announcing the selection of Texas associate head coach Tina Thompson.

“I am extremely honored to be inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame,” Thompson said in a statement. “It is a true privilege to have my name reside in the home where so many of the greats of our game are housed. As a young girl, little did I know how good old-fashioned hard work and passion would affect my life in such a grand way. Fabulous indeed.”

The Inglewood, California, native and USC alum launched her illustrious 17-year WNBA career in 1997, spending her first 12 seasons with the Houston Comets. Thompson had an immediate impact, helping lead her team to four straight championships in her first four seasons.


Thompson’s ability to score from all spots on the court quickly elevated her to elite status, becoming a nine-time All-Star, and three-time All-WNBA First Team member.

The former No. 1 overall pick reached a milestone in 2004, representing Team USA in the Olympics in Athens. Thompson shined on the world’s biggest stage, helping win two Olympic gold medals in two appearances.

After playing for the Los Angeles Sparks from 2009-11, Thompson finished her WNBA career with the Seattle Storm in 2013 at the age of 38. Thompson left behind a legacy when she walked away from the league, standing as the only WNBA player at the time to have 7,000 points and 3,000 rebounds in her career.

Monday’s induction signifies the highest honor for a person whose life has revolved around the sport of basketball. With a laundry list of accomplishments during her player career, Thompson has since turned her focus to coaching.

The WNBA legend walked onto the 40 Acres on May 18, 2015, joining the Texas staff as an assistant coach. Thompson has thrived on the sideline, becoming the associate head coach for the Longhorns on Sept. 18, 2017.

The 2018 Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Weekend is scheduled for June 8-10 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

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Tina Thompson receives Hall of Fame selection