Dawn Staley says 1996 Olympic team entering Naismith Hall of Fame 'long overdue'

The 1996 U.S. Olympic women's basketball team, which secured the first Olympic gold medal in the streak that continues today, has been honored with a place in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. The team's achievements not only proved that women's professional basketball could thrive in the U.S., but also paved the way for the WNBA's successful 30-year history.

Dawn Staley, who played alongside legends like Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, and Cynthia Cooper, expressed her gratitude for the team's recognition, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the hard work and success of the group. The 1996 team inspired future stars like Chamique Holdsclaw and Candace Parker, who called the group a "catalyst" for the growth of women's professional sports.

Staley herself played alongside former Lady Vols Carla McGhee and the late Nikki McCray-Penson, who later worked as assistant coaches for her at South Carolina. The team's preparation and mental strength carried them through the challenges they faced, ultimately leading to their gold medal victory in Atlanta.