Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Jackie Stiles appeared at Emporia State University on Thursday, telling people about her life and career — during and after basketball.
As a high schooler, Stiles led the nation in scoring while playing for Claflin. In college, she led Southwest Missouri State to the Final Four. She was also the fourth overall draft pick in the WNBA in 2001 and was named Rookie of the Year before injuries derailed her career. She has been an inspiration throughout her career.
Stiles was legendary for her workouts, including 1,000 daily made shots before ending practice, and her passion continued even after developing a rare form of cancer — she had an exercise bike in her recovery room. Her career transitioned from playing to coaching, organizing basketball camps and, now, owning a fitness business. She says there have been several things that have driven her throughout her life.
Stiles gave the roughly 250 people in attendance, mainly high school and college students, her “Stiles Staples” for success at the end of her speech:
*Selfless
*Tough
*Inspirational
*Love
*Enthusiasm
*Service
Photos by Chuck Samples/KVOE News
