Delta State University became a pioneering force in women’s basketball under coach Margaret Wade and star player Lusia Harris.

Humble Beginnings in Cleveland, Mississippi

A small crowd gathered at Walter Sillers Coliseum in 1973 for Delta State’s inaugural women’s basketball game against Holmes Community College. The game, announced only in the local paper, had no tickets, concessions, or significant buzz. Dot Bright, a 1962 Delta State graduate, recalled the initial expectations were low, as the coach came directly from a high school position.

“We had no expectations because, see, the coach came from the high school, and she had never coached college ball,” Bright said. “So we thought, ‘Oh, OK. It’s all in the family.’”

Rise to National Prominence

Despite modest beginnings, Delta State quickly ascended to become one of women’s basketball’s early powerhouses. The Lady Statesmen were the first team to hold the No. 1 ranking when the women’s college basketball poll debuted 50 years ago.

Three Consecutive Championships

From 1975 to 1977, the Lady Statesmen achieved a remarkable feat, winning three straight national championships in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW). The team will be recognized at “The AP Top 25 Fan Poll Experience” held at Arizona State University.

Shifting Landscape and Enduring Legacy

The landscape of women’s basketball changed significantly when the NCAA took over in 1982. Larger programs with substantial budgets, like UConn and South Carolina, began to dominate, shifting the national spotlight.

Despite this shift, Delta State’s rich legacy continues to resonate within the Cleveland community. Athletic director Mike Kinnison emphasized the importance of preserving the program’s tradition and heritage.

Honoring the Past

The basketball court is named after coach Lloyd Clark, who led the program to three more national titles in 1989, 1990, and 1992 after the move to NCAA Division II. Jerseys of pioneering players like Lusia Harris are displayed in the gym, and a “Hall of Fame” room chronicles the team’s dominant years.

Inspiring Future Generations

Current coach Tracy Stewart-Lange ensures prospective players are aware of the program’s storied past. She often shows recruits the Wade Trophy and displays of national championship trophies.

“You try to give them little snippets of, ‘Guys, this is where you are now,’” Stewart-Lange said. “’Don’t take it for granted. Step into those shoes and shine and push it forward. Get it back to the top.’”

The Lady Statesmen’s early success, fueled by players like Harris, attracted significant crowds, even requiring portable bleachers and students sitting along stage railings to accommodate fans. The team’s victories were celebrated throughout the Cleveland community.

Challenges and Continued Support

Following the NCAA’s governance, Delta State faced challenges in maintaining its national competitiveness. Recruiting became more difficult, but the program continues to receive strong local support. Coach Stewart-Lange recently led the team to an 18-11 record.

Bright, 82, remains a dedicated fan, attending every game. Stewart-Lange believes the community’s underlying support can help revitalize the program. “I do feel like the undercurrent is there within the community,” she said. “It’s been done before. And it can be done again.”