KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - The 1996 U.S. Olympic Team already has 10 individual inductees to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, and Boston University head coach Katy Steding along with the rest of her former teammates gathered in Knoxville at the 2016 induction ceremonies to receive another tremendous accolade – as trailblazers.
Along with the addition of the Class of 2016, the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame recognized the 1996 US Olympic Team for their contributions to the game in a display at the Hall entitled, "Trailblazers of the Game." The 1996 US Olympic Team will join the All American Red Heads, Edmonton Grads, the Former Helms/Citizens Savings/Founders Bank, the 1976 US Olympic Team, the 1972-74 Immaculata Mighty Macs and the Wayland Baptist Flying Queens as the only seven groups recognized as "Trailblazers of the Game." These trailblazers are honored for adding to the rich history of women's basketball with their special recognition by the Hall of Fame.
With many individuals already inducted into the Hall for their accomplishments to the game, the group was a familiar sight at the Knoxville event. Members of the 1996 Olympic team already earning their spot in the Hall includes Jennifer Azzi (2009), Ruthie Bolton (2011), Teresa Edwards (2010), Lisa Leslie (2015), Rebecca Lobo (2010), Katrina McClain Johnson (2006, Nikki McCray (2012), Dawn Staley (2012), and Tara VanDerveer (2002).
"Being part of the 1996 Olympic Championship Team has been a thrilling and defining experience, and I am truly honored and grateful to continue to be a part of such an elite group of amazing and impactful women," Steding said. "Being together with so many of my teammates to be recognized by the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame was inspiring and it was an unforgettable weekend."
Along with recognizing Steding's trailblazing team, the WBHoF inducted its 18th group of selections on the evening: Sherri Coale (coach), June Courteau (contributor), Joe Lombard (coach), Jackie Stiles (player), Bill Tipps (contributor, posthumously), and Natalie Williams (player). Also honored was the late Lauren Hill, the recipient of the "For the Love of the Game" Inspiration and Courage Award, the first award honoree by the Hall.
