Undeniably, the first season of AU Hoops has given us more than just great basketball. By the same token, basketball fans were blessed to see WNBA players hit the hard floor for AU:
- Lexie Brown
- DiJonai Carrington
- Natasha Cloud
- Tianna Hawkins
- Kiki Harrigan
- Isabelle Harrison
- Jantel Lavender
- Mercedes Russell
- Kelsey Mitchell
- Odyssey Sims
- Courtney Williams
Taking home the hardware. 🏅 #AUHoops pic.twitter.com/OyFAMamBUV
— Athletes Unlimited (@AUProSports) February 28, 2022
What’s more, we saw some familiar faces as well:
As a matter of fact, we saw some talent that was given some training camp contracts as the inaugural season of AU Hoops:
- K. Brown (Las Vegas Aces)
- Lauren Manis (Seattle Storm)
- Cole (Connecticut Sun)
- MeMe Jackson (Washington Mystics)
Introducing the first ever #AUHoops Defensive Team of the Year
— Athletes Unlimited (@AUProSports) February 25, 2022
🔓 @XxNik_NakxX
🔓 @DijonaiVictoria
🔓 @Lexiebrown
🔓 @TheManisLauren
🔓 @OMG_itsizzyb pic.twitter.com/itKElrVmJl
As noted in recaps of the games this season, these players have put on some outstanding performances. Even more, we witnessed standout efforts throughout the season. Without a doubt, the number of three-pointers drained went to a noteworthy cause in Aspiration that could fill Madison Square Garden.
AU Hoops: Making History in the Booth
Credit: Jade Hewitt Athletes Unlimited
However, I’d be remiss not to mention the history made by the great Cindy Brunson and WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes. It’s important to realize together; they made history by becoming the first women of color as a broadcasting duo to be the primary voices for a professional league in the United States.
Thanks @SydJColson I had never called a half court buzzer beater for the win until today‼️😤 https://t.co/XAlIiZZAzy
— Cindy Brunson (@CindyBrunsonAZ) February 19, 2022
All in all, representation matters in sports, and when young people of color see and hear Brunson and Swoopes, it moves the needle. On a personal note, both women added to the excitement of AU Hoops and the games felt different.
Thank You, AU Hoops
As shown above, AU Hoops is something special, both on and off the court. Coupled with the game, the stories and journeys of these women added to what makes this special. On a personal level, getting to see the personalities live week in and week out had me hooked. By the same token, the relatability and connectivity to the fans feel real.
No words, just love. ❤️ #AUHoops pic.twitter.com/4jVl3REXST
— Athletes Unlimited (@AUProSports) February 28, 2022
Notwithstanding, words cannot express fully the joy and love I’ve had writing about the games. In summary, I hope you had fun reading about AU Hoops as I had writing them. In the meantime, to every woman who hit the hardwood in Las Vegas for AU Hoops, thank you. All things considered, let’s do this again in 2023.
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