Senda Berenson Abbott Hall of Fame NBA

Senda Berenson Abbott is widely recognized as the “Mother of Women’s Basketball.” Although she was not involved with the NBA, her influence on the sport of basketball is foundational. In 1892, shortly after the invention of basketball by James Naismith, Berenson introduced and adapted the game for women at Smith College.

She modified the rules to emphasize teamwork and skill while encouraging broader participation among women, helping the sport gain acceptance and structure in its early years. In 1893, she organized the first women’s collegiate basketball game in history.

Her version of the game, which divided the court into three sections to prevent "overexertion," remained the standard for nearly 70 years. she was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor in 1985, becoming the first woman ever enshrined.

Abbott's Awards & Records

• First woman inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
• Inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame (1999)
• Inducted into the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame (1987)
• Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999
• Organized first women’s college basketball game (1893)
• Adapted early rules for women’s competition
• Foundational figure in women’s basketball history

NBA Position

Director of Physical Education