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San Antonio Silver Stars Player Shanna Crossley talks life and basketball at NVC
San Antonio Silver Stars player, Shanna Crossley, recently visited Northwest Vista College to discuss women, sports and the drive for success. During the special event, she provided an in-depth viewpoint on the current state of women’s basketball and provided a first-hand account of her experience in a traditionally male dominated sport.
The 5’ 10” WNBA star brought together a diverse group of students, faculty and staff who took full advantage of the opportunity to ask questions about the past, present and future of women’s basketball.
She answered several questions from the audience and brought with her a message of determination. Questions from the audience ranged from dealing with the stereotypes commonly associated with women in sports, to her collegiate career.
Originally from Indiana, Crossley said she was raised in a house of basketball. Her father, a basketball coach, eventually became the leader of her high school squad. “I had my doubts about having Dad as my coach, but he was a wonderful role model who encouraged me to be the best I could in everything I do,” she said.
From high school, Crossley moved on to play basketball for the University of Tennessee, where she majored in journalism and electronic media. Playing for the “Lady Volunteers,” meant she would be under the guidance of Head Coach Pat Summit; who is considered one of sports’ most successful and demanding head coaches.
“Coach Summit really asked us to work hard. It was one of the most challenging things in my life,” Crossley recalled. “We all really dreaded the breaks, like spring break and Christmas break, because it meant that while everyone was on vacation we were practicing.” Crossley went on to say that she admires Coach Summit and says her work ethic really helped her both on and off the court.
Fielding further questions from the audience, Crossley discussed how the National Basketball Association (NBA) developed its current fan base over several decades. She reaffirmed with confidence that the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) will continue to grow in both fans and talent.
When asked how she personally overcame the hurdles of being a woman in the traditionally male dominated sport of basketball, Crossley humbly gave credit to her predecessors. “Players like Vickie Johnson really helped pave the way for female basketball players. They were the ones who dealt with more of the obstacles than I had to,” she said.
The open discussion also briefly touched on the subject of Title IX and how it has helped women with their educational and athletic goals. “I am thankful for Title IX,” said Crossley. “The fact that I play basketball for a living is incredible. Without Title IX, I may not have ever been able to say that.”
Following the Q&A session, Crossley participated in a friendly three-point challenge in front of Huisache Hall with Wildcat basketball team member, Alfred Adams. Several on-lookers watched the shoot-out, as Crossley and Adams took several shots from the back court. The match ended with the two challengers equally proving themselves worthy opponents and calling the match a draw.
Shanna Crossley’s visit was a part of the Women’s History Month event, Inspiring Women: Women in Sports. Throughout the month of March, Northwest Vista College celebrated Women's History Month through a series of speakers, exhibits and films.
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