Last night, Iowa superstar guard Caitlin Clark set the new record for all-time scoring in women’s college basketball with 3,528 points. And yet, there is another woman with 3,649 career points who has been left off the scoring charts.
Lynette Woodard played for Kansas women’s basketball from 1977 to 1981; a time with a larger basketball and no 3-point line. It was also a time where women’s athletics were governed by the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women. In 1982, governing power was transferred over to the NCAA, where it is today. The NCAA doesn’t recognize Woodard’s record in its official books, as the former Jayhawk played before the NCAA oversaw women’s sports.
Lynette Woodard was born on August 12, 1959, in Wichita, Kansas. From an early age, she displayed an exceptional talent for basketball, quickly becoming a standout player at Wichita North High School. Her skills and determination caught the attention of college recruiters, leading her to the University of Kansas, where she continued to showcase her skills on the court.
Woodard’s collegiate career was nothing short of spectacular. A four-time All-American, she set numerous records and led the Jayhawks to unprecedented success. In 1981, she made history by becoming the first woman to receive the James E. Sullivan Award, given to the top amateur athlete in the United States.
However, Woodard’s journey did not end in college. In 1984, she further solidified her legacy by joining the United States women’s basketball team at the Los Angeles Olympics. Not only did she help secure a gold medal for her country, but she also became the first female basketball player to compete in the Olympics.
Following her Olympic triumph, Woodard continued to break barriers by becoming the first woman to play for the Harlem Globetrotters, a renowned exhibition basketball team. Her exceptional ball-handling skills and on-court charisma endeared her to fans around the world.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Lynette Woodard has been a tireless advocate for women’s sports and a role model for aspiring athletes. She has dedicated herself to promoting equality and opportunities for women in the world of sports, leaving an enduring impact on the landscape of basketball.
As high school students, we can draw inspiration from Lynette Woodard’s journey. Her commitment, resilience, and passion for the game serve as a beacon for those pursuing their dreams, reminding us that with dedication and determination, anything is possible.
Lynette Woodard’s legacy extends far beyond her impressive basketball achievements. She has paved the way for future generations of female athletes, proving that talent knows no gender. As we celebrate her accomplishments, let us also reflect on the progress made in women’s sports and strive to continue breaking down barriers in the pursuit of equality on and off the court.
