Naismith Outstanding Contributor to women's basketball

The Naismith Award is an annual award given to the best men’s and women’s college basketball players. The award ceremony began in 1969 by the Atlanta Tipoff Club. Although the award initially honored male players only, with UCLA's Lew Alcindor being the first one to receive it. The award was opened to female players in 1983, with Old Dominion's Anne Donovan being the first to receive the women's award.

Every season, the process starts with a 50-player watchlist, decided by a panel of coaches, administrators, and media personnel. By February, the number is cut to 30 players based on performance, and four finalists are selected in March. The finalists are picked in April through a combination of the panel's choice and fan vote. The winners are awarded the coveted Naismith Trophy, named after the inventor of basketball, Dr. James Naismith. A number of players have received the award more than once, such as Bill Walton, Ralph Sampson, and Zach Edey on the men's side, and Cheryl Miller and Breanna Stewart on the women's side.

Naismith Outstanding Contributor to women's basketball

The Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Women's Basketball award, first awarded in 1993, recognizes those who have made a substantial contribution to the development of the sport. Every year the award is given to individuals who have served more than 20 years as basketball coaches, broadcasters, administrators, or media. As per the official Naismith Award site, the candidate must reflect character, integrity, and a lasting impact on the game. Notable recipients include legendary coaches and influential figures like Muffet McGraw and C. Vivian Stringer, Chris Plonsky, and many more.

The Naismith Outstanding Contributor to women's basketball award winners.