The O’Toole Chronicles: The Greatest Player Who Never Went Pro — Cheryl Miller

Imagine a politician who was universally recognized by both major political parties as the most talented and gifted individual, but the opportunity to realize that potential never materialized. We would all think what a terrible waste of talent and would only wonder what could have been.

In a similar vein, I note one of the most talented college basketball players, Cheryl Miller, who because of circumstance and injury, never fulfilled her endless potential. At one point, Cheryl was talked about playing in the NBA and the fledgling Women’s Professional League.

After a storied high school career, Cheryl was the top player for USC and was the single reason why this team was recognized as one of the best all time college success stories. In short, Cheryl played four years at USC and had some unbelievable statistics – she averaged 23.6 points per game (3,018 total points) and 12 rebounds (1534) and was National MVP in 1983 and 1984, leading USC to back–to–back National Championships. Cheryl also led our country to the Gold medal in 1984 and played internationally, representing our country in many Good Will Events. After all was said and done, Cheryl was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995 and the Women’s Hall of Fame in 1999.

So how come Cheryl never went professional? The simple answer is that at the age of 22, Cheryl severely injured her ACL and was finished as a basketball player. Ironically, Cheryl was playing a pickup game with some of the best NBA players when she was injured. What a tragic ending. But that isn’t the end of the story.

After her untimely injury, Cheryl didn’t quit or get bitter, rather she inspired thousands to work hard and compete. Cheryl went on to coach at the college and professional level and she had great success. After coaching she became a first rate broadcaster for the NBA and WNBA. Cheryl can look back now at a sea of accomplishments and first–evers in many categories. She is a role model for all of us.

Side note, my daughter has long maintained that women’s college and professional sports are as exciting and popular as the men’s and I completely agree. Ryan Marie has stated since grammar school that society, despite Title IX, hasn’t invested the same money, resources, and attention in women’s programs as the men. And until we fully invest the same amount of scholarships, prime time television, facilities, pay and parity in every segment, we won’t get parity in popularity and fairness.

Last note, the WNBA wouldn’t get started until 1997 and Cheryl never had the opportunity to show her complete abilities. Cheryl is considered by many as the single greatest basketball player who never played professionally.

Lesson: How many among us possess a skill set for politics and haven’t gotten to the pros? The point is there are only so many seats available in elected office and there is always room for the next Cheryl Miller.