Ann Meyers is a trailblazer in the history of women’s basketball, revolutionizing the sport with her exceptional talent and groundbreaking achievements. She holds the distinction of being the first high school player to make the United States national team and the first woman to receive a full athletic scholarship to UCLA. Her induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame cements her legacy as one of the greatest female athletes in basketball history.
Meyers’ career spanned high school, college, international, and professional levels. She won numerous accolades, including participation in the Olympic Games and international tournaments.
Besides her basketball prowess, she also played volleyball and softball, showcasing her versatility in sports.
Ann Meyers’ influence extends beyond the court as she is also a celebrated sportscaster, providing insightful commentary and analysis for various basketball leagues and events.
Her marriage to baseball Hall of Famer Don Drysdale added another dimension to her illustrious life, merging two sports icons in one family. Today, she remains a prominent figure in sports, both for her contributions as a player and her continued involvement as a sportscaster.
Who Is Ann Meyers?
Ann Meyers, an American basketball legend, made significant strides in women’s sports. She achieved numerous milestones in basketball, breaking barriers at every level.
Where Did Ann Meyers Grow Up?
Ann Meyers was born on March 26, 1955, in San Diego, California. She grew up in a family passionate about sports. Her brother, Dave Meyers, also pursued a career in basketball, playing in the NBA.
During her high school years, Ann played at Sonora High School in La Habra, California. She was an outstanding athlete, participating in various sports and earning accolades for her performance.
Her high school achievements set the stage for her future success in collegiate and professional basketball.
Where Does Ann Meyers Live?
Ann Meyers currently resides in Huntington Beach, California. She has chosen to stay close to her roots, living in a place familiar to her. Her connection to California remains strong throughout her life.
Living in this vibrant community, Ann continues to contribute to sports as a sportscaster. Her work keeps her actively involved in the basketball community, sharing her insights and knowledge gained from her illustrious career.
Who Is Ann Meyers Married To?
Ann Meyers married Don Drysdale, a famous Hall of Fame baseball pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers. They tied the knot on November 1, 1986. Don Drysdale was known for his remarkable achievements in baseball, making their union a celebrated one in the world of sports.
Their marriage brought together two legendary athletes, and they supported each other’s careers until Don Drysdale’s untimely death in 1993 due to a heart attack. Ann Meyers honored his memory while continuing her contributions to basketball.
Does Ann Meyers Have Children?
Ann Meyers and Don Drysdale had three children together. Their family life was an integral part of Ann’s journey, balancing her professional commitments with her role as a mother.
Her children inherited a rich legacy of athletic excellence from their parents. Ann’s ability to manage her career while raising a family exemplifies her dedication and resilience. Her children continue to be a significant part of her life, as she proudly supports their endeavors.
Ann Meyers College Basketball Career
Ann Meyers had an exceptional college basketball career at UCLA, where she achieved numerous records and accolades. She left a lasting impact on the sport and set the stage for future female athletes.
Where Did Ann Meyers Play College Basketball?
Ann Meyers played college basketball at UCLA. She was the first woman to receive a full athletic scholarship at the university. Her presence on the team greatly elevated the status of women’s basketball.
During her time at UCLA, Meyers excelled in not just basketball but also volleyball and track and field. She was a versatile athlete who earned seven letters in these sports, showcasing her extraordinary talent and dedication.
Did Ann Meyers Coach College Basketball?
Ann Meyers did not pursue a career coaching college basketball. After graduating from UCLA, she went on to have an illustrious career as a professional player and sportscaster.
While Meyers did not coach at the college level, her influence remained strong through her work and advocacy for women’s sports. Her contributions in broadcasting also helped bring more attention to women’s basketball, inspiring future generations.
What Awards Did Ann Meyers Accomplish In College?
During her time at UCLA, Ann Meyers received numerous awards and honors. She was named a Kodak All-American four times, a remarkable achievement that highlighted her consistent excellence.
She won the Broderick Award, recognizing her as the nation’s top female college basketball player. Meyers set several school records, including in points and rebounds, and was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for her outstanding performances.
Her contributions helped her team secure important victories and solidified her legacy in college basketball. For her numerous achievements, Ann Meyers was inducted into the UCLA Hall of Fame.
How Did Ann Meyers Perform In The NCAA Tournament?
Ann Meyers led UCLA to impressive performances in the NCAA tournament, known then as the AIAW national championship. Her skillful play helped the team achieve significant success.
Meyers showcased her leadership and talent on the court, guiding the Bruins to numerous wins. Her tenacity and competitive spirit were crucial in high-pressure situations.
Although the Bruins didn’t win the national championship during her tenure, Meyers’ contributions were pivotal in advancing the team deep into the tournament and raising the profile of women’s college basketball.
Ann Meyers Professional Basketball Career
Ann Meyers had an impressive professional basketball career that included playing in the Women’s Professional Basketball League (WBL). She also made a significant mark in various basketball-related roles.
Did Ann Meyers Play In The NBA?
Ann Meyers was almost part of the NBA. In 1979, she signed a contract with the Indiana Pacers, making her the first woman to try out for an NBA team. Her contract was worth $50,000.
Although she trained with the team, she didn’t make the final roster. This stint put her in the spotlight and highlighted the potential for women to play at higher levels.
Did Ann Meyers Coach In The NBA?
Ann Meyers did not coach in the NBA. However, she held significant roles in basketball management. She has been involved with the Phoenix Suns as an executive.
Her expertise and experience in basketball have made her a respected figure in managing and promoting the sport. Meyers has also been an influential figure for the Phoenix Mercury, the WNBA team, advocating for women’s basketball.
What Awards Did Ann Meyers Accomplish In Professional Basketball?
Ann Meyers has a storied career filled with numerous awards. She was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.
Meyers was also part of the inaugural class for the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 1999. Additionally, she was inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2007. Her accolades are a testament to her impact on the sport.
Did Ann Meyers Win An NBA Championship?
Ann Meyers did not win an NBA championship as a player or coach. Since she didn’t make it to the Pacers’ final roster, she didn’t have the opportunity to compete in the NBA.
Her professional playing career was primarily with the New Jersey Gems in the WBL. While she didn’t win an NBA title, her contributions to basketball have been acknowledged through various honors and her continued influence in the sport.
What Is Ann Meyers Up To Now?
Ann Meyers continues to make significant contributions to the world of basketball and beyond. She remains active in various professional capacities, including broadcasting and speaking engagements. Her influence extends across multiple platforms, enriching the sport and inspiring new generations.
Is Ann Meyers Still Involved In Basketball?
Yes, Ann Meyers is still actively involved in basketball. She serves as a vice president for the Phoenix Mercury, a team in the WNBA, and has a significant role in team operations.
Her passion for basketball ensures she stays engaged with the sport. Ann attends games, works closely with players and coaches, and contributes to team strategy.
Ann Meyers’ involvement with the Phoenix Mercury has helped the team achieve notable success. Her experience and insights as a former player and team executive continue to benefit the organization. Meyers’ longstanding relationship with basketball keeps her at the forefront of the sport.
Does Ann Meyers Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Ann Meyers is a sought-after speaker for various events. She frequently shares her experiences as a world champion and Olympic medalist.
Meyers has spoken at corporate events, sports symposiums, and educational institutions. Her talks often cover topics such as teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.
Organizations value her insights and ability to inspire audiences. A former member of the U.S. national team, Meyers blends her professional experiences with personal stories. These engagements offer a unique perspective on the impact of athletics on personal and professional growth.
Does Ann Meyers Have A Podcast?
As of now, Ann Meyers does not have a podcast. She has, however, appeared on numerous podcasts and radio shows as a guest.
During these appearances, she discusses her career, the growth of women’s basketball, and other related topics.
Fans of Ann Meyers can find her interviews readily available online. These podcasts provide a platform for Meyers to share her extensive knowledge and passion for the game. While she may not host her own podcast, her insights are still widely accessible.
Has Ann Meyers Gone Into Broadcasting?
Ann Meyers has made a successful transition into broadcasting. As a sportscaster, she covers a variety of basketball events, ranging from the Olympics to WNBA games.
Meyers brings her in-depth knowledge of the sport to her commentary, making her a respected voice in basketball broadcasting.
Her role as a broadcaster has included covering major events like the Olympic basketball team competitions and WNBA finals. Meyers’ broadcasting career spans multiple decades, during which she has remained committed to promoting and celebrating the sport. Her work is widely recognized and appreciated by fans and colleagues alike.
What Is Ann Meyers’ Net Worth?
Ann Meyers Drysdale has had a remarkable career in sports, contributing significantly to her net worth. She has been a standout basketball player, sportscaster, and an influential figure in the sporting community. Her net worth is often estimated based on her multifaceted career and achievements.
Earnings from Basketball
Throughout her playing days, Meyers earned recognition and accolades, which increased her market value. Even though women’s basketball salaries were not as high as men’s, her pioneering achievements brought her various financial rewards.
Television and Broadcasting
Post-retirement, Meyers transitioned to a career in broadcasting. She has worked as a sportscaster for major networks, including ESPN. This role has substantially contributed to her income, adding to her net worth.
Family Wealth
Meyers was married to Don Drysdale, a Hall of Fame baseball player. The couple combined their wealth, contributing to her financial standing. Don Drysdale, who unfortunately passed away in 1993, was a successful Major League Baseball pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Estimated Net Worth
Although exact figures are not easily available, Ann Meyers’ net worth is estimated to be in the range of $4 million to $6 million. This estimation includes her earnings from broadcasting, basketball, and her partnership with Don Drysdale.
For more detailed information about Ann Meyers’ career and contributions, you can visit her Wikipedia page.