Chamique Holdsclaw, a standout star of Tennessee women’s basketball, has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame class of 2025. The announcement was made by former Lady Vols head coach Holly Warlick and Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Executive Director Brad Willis. Holdsclaw’s induction is a tribute to her exceptional career and influence on and off the court.
“Chamique Holdsclaw is one of the greatest players ever to wear the Lady Vols’ uniform,” Willis said. “She helped define an era of dominance for Tennessee women’s basketball, and we are honored to welcome her to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame class of 2025.”
A native of Queens, New York, Holdsclaw played under the legendary Pat Summitt from 1995 to 1999, leading Tennessee to unprecedented heights. During her time with the Lady Vols, she guided the team to three consecutive NCAA championships from 1996 to 1998, including a perfect 39-0 record in the 1997-98 season. Holdsclaw’s ability to dominate games with her scoring, rebounding, and leadership made her one of the most iconic players in women’s college basketball history.
Holdsclaw’s individual accolades reflect her extraordinary career. She was a four-time All-American, a two-time National Player of the Year, a two-time SEC Player of the Year, and the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament twice. To this day, she remains the Lady Vols’ all-time leading scorer and rebounder, cementing her place as one of the program’s all-time greats.
Following her collegiate success, Holdsclaw was the first overall pick in the 1999 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics. She immediately made an impact, earning Rookie of the Year honors and becoming a six-time WNBA All-Star during her professional career, which spanned over a decade.
Off the court, Holdsclaw has become a prominent advocate for mental health awareness, sharing her personal struggles and using her platform to inspire and educate others. Her work in this field has further solidified her legacy as a trailblazer who continues to make a positive impact.
The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to the state’s sports heritage. Holdsclaw’s induction honors not only her athletic achievements but also her lasting influence as a leader and advocate.
Holdsclaw will be formally inducted later this year, joining an esteemed class of honorees who have left an indelible mark on Tennessee sports.
