In the vibrant tapestry of women's basketball history, certain figures stand out not only for their achievements on the court but also for their profound influence on the sport itself. Among these luminaries is Carolyn Peck, a trailblazing coach whose impact reverberates from the hardwood courts of college basketball arenas to the bright lights of the WNBA.
Peck began her career in coaching as an assistant coach for the Tennessee Lady Vols, coaching under the legendary Pat Summitt. When she had the opportunity to become head coach at Perdue in 1999, she undertook the challenge, leading her team to win the NCAA Women's Basketball Championship. Peck became the first African-American female coach to win a NCAA Division I basketball title. With this win she also became one of only four coaches to win a championship within their first two seasons as head coach.
Peck remembers being the first. But when there is a first, “that meant there was going to be a second."
An impressive accomplishment in every aspect, Peck showcased her coaching prowess and an emphasis on strong game strategy. But her impact as a motivator can be seen in its greatest form through her connection to Dawn Staley.
“Carolyn Peck, a few years ago when she was commentating, she gave me a piece of her [1999 game winning] net,” Staley said. “She told me to keep it. I’ve had it in my wallet for years.”
Staley shared this story in the press conference following her own 2017 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship win with South Carolina, becoming only the second African American female coach to win a championship. Dawn knew then, that upon her win she would pass a piece of her net on to someone else so that they too could share in this accomplishment and take it as inspiration, much like she had.
"It's a tangible thing that sometimes when you're going through things day-to-day and you don't feel like you can see your way through it, that little nylon piece of string...it rejuvenates you to continue and it gives you that reason to keep pushing."
Dawn put this sentiment in action and in 2021, she sent a piece of her game-winning net to every Black woman head coach in Division I women’s basketball. In total, Dawn sent out 70 pieces of her net.
Omaha women's basketball head coach Carrie Banks, spoke on receiving her piece of the net.
“I think I was in my second year, ever, as head coach. I was thought of, and I had a tangible piece of her success and something to aspire to. It’s just so nice when people who have accomplished so much reach back. It was a really special moment.”
It is because of these moments that inspire the work of 318 Foundation.
In historically underserved communities, young girls face a significant opportunity gap due to complex social, economic, and educational challenges, creating formidable barriers to their success. With this in mind, 318 Foundation was founded.
Of our three programs, 318 SPORTS is dedicated to empowering exceptionally talented athletes who may lack exposure or the necessary support to unlock their full potential. Our mission is to create transformative elite training experiences that not only enhance their athletic abilities but also focus on personal growth and empowerment.
It is our goal to have girls from historically underserved communities have the access and opportunity to find coaches and mentors like Carolyn Peck and Dawn Staley, who are able to be beneficial to their lives.
Taking inspiration from the sharing of these championship nets, we aim to help guide the next generation.
Join us in the journey towards excellence with 318 SPORTS.
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