Margaret Wade Hall of Fame NBA

Margaret Wade was a trailblazing coach who helped shape modern women’s basketball. Although she did not coach in the NBA, her impact on the sport earned national recognition. Wade led Delta State University from 1973 to 1979 and quickly built one of the strongest programs in the country. Her teams won three consecutive AIAW national championships from 1975 to 1977 and played an up-tempo, disciplined style that set them apart. In just six seasons at Delta State, she compiled a 157–23 record and helped bring national attention to women’s college basketball. Wade’s leadership extended beyond wins, as she was a strong advocate for opportunities in women’s sports. She was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985.

Wade's Awards & Records

• 3× AIAW National Champion (1975–1977)
• AIAW National Coach of the Year (1977)
• Inaugural Inductee, Women's Basketball Hall of Fame (1999)
• The Wade Trophy is named in her honor
• First woman inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame
• One of the first two women ever inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Team

Delta State (1973–1979)