Nancy Lieberman's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Nancy Lieberman. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Nancy Lieberman, nicknamed "Lady Magic," is a prominent figure in American women's basketball. A former professional player and coach in the WNBA, she's recognized as one of the sport's greatest. Currently, she serves as a broadcaster for the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA) and head coach of Power in the BIG3, leading them to the 2018 Championship. Her career spans playing, coaching, and broadcasting, solidifying her legacy in basketball.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1975: Played for 1975 USA Women's Pan American Team

In 1975, Nancy Lieberman, at age 17, played for the USA Women's Pan American Team, securing a gold medal in Mexico City.

1976: Won Silver Medal at the Olympics

In 1976, Nancy Lieberman became the youngest basketball player in Olympic history to win a medal, when the United States captured the silver medal at the Montreal Olympics.

1978: Won WNIT Championship and Kodak All-America awards

In 1978, Nancy Lieberman and her team won the WNIT (Women's National Invitation Tournament) Championship. She also won one of her three consecutive Kodak All-America awards.

1979: Won AIAW National Championships

In 1979, Nancy Lieberman and her team won the AIAW National Championships.

1979: Won Silver Medal at Pan American Games

In 1979, Nancy Lieberman played with the team at the Pan American games in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Although the team easily won most of their games, they lost to Cuba, 91–86, and received the silver medal.

1979: Won Gold Medal at William Jones Cup

In 1979, Nancy Lieberman was named to the team representing the US at the William Jones Cup competition in Taipei. The USA team won all six games on the way to the gold medal, and Lieberman earned a spot on the Jones Cup All-Tournament Team.

1980: Won AIAW National Championship, Kodak All-America Award, and Young American Award

In 1980, Nancy Lieberman and her team won the AIAW National Championship. She also won the Kodak All-America award and the Young American Award from the Boy Scouts of America.

1981: Played in WBL Finals

In 1981, Nancy Lieberman helped Dallas to the WBL finals, where they lost to the Nebraska Wranglers in five games. She was named the "rookie of the year", after averaging 26.3 points per game.

1984: Won WABA Championship

In 1984, Nancy Lieberman signed a three-year contract with the Dallas Diamonds to play in the Women's American Basketball Association (WABA). Averaging 27 points per game and being voted the league's Most Valuable Player, she helped Dallas win the 1984 WABA championship.

1985: Inducted into ODU Sports Hall of Fame

In 1985, Nancy Lieberman was inducted into the ODU Sports Hall of Fame.

1996: Elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame

In 1996, Nancy Lieberman was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as a player.

1999: Elected to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame

In 1999, Nancy Lieberman was elected to the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame.

2000: Inducted into Nassau County Sports Hall of Fame

In 2000, Nancy Lieberman was inducted into the Nassau County Sports Hall of Fame.

July 24, 2008: Signed with Detroit Shock

On July 24, 2008, at 50 years old, Nancy Lieberman signed a seven-day contract with the Detroit Shock, breaking her own previous record as the oldest player in league history and returning to the franchise she coached a decade prior.

August 13, 2008: Inducted into Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame

On August 13, 2008, Nancy Lieberman was part of the inaugural class to be inducted into the Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame, honoring athletes, coaches and administrators who made contributions to sports in Southeastern Virginia.

November 2009: Became Coach of Texas Legends

In November 2009, Nancy Lieberman became the coach of the Texas Legends in the NBA Development League (now NBA G League), becoming the first woman to coach a professional men's basketball team.