The Inspiring Journey of Rebecca Lobo: From WNBA Star to Sports Broadcasting Icon

Rebecca Lobo, born on October 6, 1973, in Hartford, Connecticut, is a name synonymous with excellence in women's basketball. Her journey from a young girl playing basketball in her hometown's parks and recreation department to becoming a WNBA legend and a respected sports broadcaster is nothing short of inspiring. This article delves into her remarkable career, personal life, and the unique circumstances that led to her marriage to renowned sportswriter Steve Rushin.

Early Life and Basketball Beginnings

Rebecca Lobo's love for basketball began at a young age. Her mother, RuthAnn, a school administrator and Title IX coordinator, ensured that Rebecca had every opportunity to pursue her passion for sports. When Rebecca was in third grade, she signed up to play basketball through her hometown's parks and recreation department. Despite not enough girls signing up for the team, RuthAnn insisted that her daughter be allowed to play on the boys' team instead. Rebecca did play and outperformed her male teammates, setting the stage for her future success in the sport .

More than 100 colleges across the country tried to recruit her for their teams, but Lobo chose to attend the University of Connecticut because it was close to home and because she wanted to play for head coach Geno Auriemma. Auriemma's efforts to bring Lobo to Storrs were instrumental in elevating UConn's basketball program nationally. In the 1994-1995 basketball season, Lobo led the Huskies to their first undefeated season, capping it off with the program's first-ever national championship. She was named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Championship, Associated Press Player of the Year, NCAA Woman of the Year, Naismith National Player of the Year, and the Womens Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year .

Following her graduation from UConn in 1995, Lobo joined the 1996 Olympic Basketball Team that won gold in Atlanta. She then became one of three founding players of the WNBA, helping to inaugurate the first professional league for womens basketball. During her time in the WNBA, Lobo played for several teams including the New York Liberty, the Houston Comets, the Springfield Spirit, and the Connecticut Sun .

Personal Tragedy and Philanthropy

Despite her numerous accolades on and off the court, Lobo faced personal tragedy during her senior year of college. Her mother RuthAnn was diagnosed with breast cancer. Together, they traveled and spoke publicly about their journey, inspiring many people along the way. In 1996, they authored *The Home Team*, and in 2001, they founded the RuthAnn & Rebecca Lobo Scholarship for Hispanic students in UConns School of Allied Health. RuthAnn passed away in 2011, and two years later, Rebecca helped found the RuthAnn Lobo Award in Social Work at the University of Connecticut .

Rebecca Lobo has continued to give back to her community through various philanthropic efforts. She has served as a member of the UConn Board of Trustees since 2004 and was featured as the universitys commencement speaker in 2008. In 2010, she was inducted into the Womens Basketball Hall of Famethe first UConn player to be so honoredand, in 2015, was one of 25 included in the inaugural class of the Eastern College Athletic Conference Hall of Fame .

Meeting Steve Rushin: A Chance Encounter

Rebecca Lobo met her future husband, Steve Rushin, under unusual circumstances. After a chance meeting at a bar in Manhattan, Lobo confronted Rushin for a snarky remark he had written about the WNBA. The encounter began when Lobo was subletting an apartment from a guy named John Walters who was writing for Sports Illustrated at the time. They went to dinner and then to a dive bar on the upper west side called the Dublin House. While there, John introduced Lobo to two of his colleagues from Sports IllustratedSteve Rushin and Mark Beach .

Lobo had been reading Rushin's columns for years but had no idea what he looked like. When he walked in, she immediately recognized him and confronted him about his article. Rushin admitted to writing the piece and explained that he had never attended a WNBA game before making his remarks. Lobo invited him to watch her team play at Madison Square Garden, and 23 months later, they were married .

The couple's relationship has been marked by mutual respect and challenge. They have four children together and currently live in Granby, Connecticut. They also host a weekly podcast called the *Ball & Chain Podcast*, where they discuss current events, sports, and family life .

Career in Sports Broadcasting

After retiring from professional basketball in 2003, Rebecca Lobo transitioned into a career in sports broadcasting. She began working at ESPN, where she is known for her intelligent and insightful coverage of college basketball. Her experience as a player has given her a unique perspective on the sport, allowing her to provide detailed analysis that resonates with both fans and experts alike .

Lobo's contributions to sports broadcasting extend beyond her work at ESPN. She has been a vocal advocate for women's sports and has used her platform to promote health and wellness initiatives, particularly breast cancer awareness. Her dedication to giving back to the community is evident in her philanthropic efforts and her commitment to inspiring young athletes .

The New York Liberty, the team where Lobo played during her WNBA career, has a rich history filled with heartache and near misses. An oral history of the Liberty's tortured past highlights their journey towards seeking their first WNBA championship .

In recent years, the Liberty has seen significant improvements under the leadership of players like Jonquel Jones. Jones has finally solved her puzzle against the Minnesota Lynx, showcasing her growth as a player and contributing to the team's overall success .

Rebecca Lobo's legacy extends far beyond her playing days. She continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans alike with her dedication to sports and her commitment to giving back to the community. Her story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one person can have on the world of sports.

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