LUBBOCK, Texas — Texas Tech women’s basketball coach Krista Gerlich recalled the early rise of Sheryl Swoopes and the impact she had on the Lady Raiders program and women’s college basketball during Swoopes’ collegiate career.
Gerlich, who played alongside Swoopes on Texas Tech’s 1993 national championship team, described large home crowds, community celebrations, and heightened fan interest during the program’s championship season. She said the team received public recognition at events in Lubbock, including a Fourth of July parade, and was welcomed home by a large crowd following the title win.
Gerlich, Swoopes, and Carolyn Thompson are the only players in program history to have their numbers retired from the 1993 championship team.
Gerlich said Swoopes served as the team’s primary offensive option and played a central role in the team’s success.
Sheryl Swoopes went on to become one of the most decorated players in women’s basketball history. She won three Olympic gold medals with the U.S. women’s national basketball team and earned three WNBA Most Valuable Player awards. She also won four WNBA championships with the Houston Comets.
During her college career, Swoopes helped lead Texas Tech to its first national championship in 1993. The team’s success contributed to increased attendance and national attention, including high demand for tickets to the NCAA Women’s Final Four that season.