Margaret Wade

Margaret Wade was an influential American basketball athlete and coach, born on December 30, 1912. She made her mark in women's basketball during a time when the sport was developing its identity. Wade's athletic career began in college at the University of Mississippi, where she played basketball and emerged as a standout athlete.

Following her playing career, Wade transitioned into coaching and contributed significantly to the growth of women's basketball at the high school and collegiate levels. She served as the head coach of the women's basketball team at Delta State University, leading them to three National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) championships in the 1970s. Under her guidance, the Delta State team became a national powerhouse, and Wade earned recognition as a pioneer in women's sports.

Margaret Wade's legacy extends beyond her coaching achievements; she was a passionate advocate for women's sports and played a crucial role in increasing visibility and support for female athletes. She was inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999, honoring her contributions to the sport. Wade's commitment to basketball and her impact on generations of female athletes have solidified her status as a key figure in the history of women's athletics in the United States.