WBL PLAYERS – 2018 TRAILBLAZER RECIPIENTS – WOMEN’S BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

The WBL (Women’s Basketball League) is the 2018 recipient of the Trailblazer Award and will be inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame (WBHOF) in Knoxville, Tennessee on June 9, 2018. Your very own WANDA SZEREMETA was part of a league that was the first in women’s professional basketball.

These women made a conscious effort to lay the template that would eventually launch other fledgling leagues, the ABL, and current WNBA. The WBL was a product of many who came before them. Many young women played on AAU teams, traveling exhibition teams, club teams, and in any forum that allowed them to showcase their skills. After Title IX in 1972, girls were afforded athletic scholarships and opportunities to play in college. They took full advantage of this new legislation and the race was on. Girls’ sports grew exponentially and no longer remained in the shadows. It was also the 1976 Olympic Basketball Team that helped shine a spotlight on the women’s game, and the stage was set for a professional league. The WBL contributions are numerous, and while the league and each individual player may not be household names, their legacy is cemented in the history of women’s basketball.

The work and accomplishments of these pioneers have a direct influence on today’s game, and they are the epitome of the mandate for the Trailblazer Award.

For more information on the induction and other events please visit the WBHOF website. The induction will be streamed on ESPN June 9, 201