Shaquille O’Neal is getting into the Hollywood mix once again and is one of the executive producers on the upcoming documentary “The Queen of Basketball.” The New York Times op-doc short tells the story of Lusia “Lucy” Harris, one of the greatest women basketball players of all time. Harris won three national titles in college and a silver medal at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal and was the first woman to score a basket in Olympic history.
She was also the first woman ever officially drafted by an NBA team, when the New Orleans Jazz (now the Utah Jazz) selected her in 1977 in the 7th round. Harris was inducted into both the pro basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame for her stellar feats.
“Lusia ‘Lucy’ Harris’ heroism has gone unsung for way too long and I am particularly proud of my involvement in bringing her story to bear. A living legend and a pioneer in both men’s and women’s basketball, her life is a significant example of fortitude that is sure to inspire,” the four-time NBA champion explained to Deadline.
The documentary explores Harris’ upbringing in a small town in Mississippi, born the 10th of 11 children. She measured 6’3” in high school but during that time there weren’t a lot of opportunities available for women in sports until the Title IV enactment was passed in 1972 which prohibits federally funded educational institutions from discriminating against students or employees based on sex.
Despite the gender hurdles, she eventually ended up attending Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, leading the Lady Statesmen to three consecutive national titles from 1974-1977. Although drafted, Harris decided not to try out for the Jazz and started a family. She later became the head coach at her former high school, Amanda Elzy High in Greenwood, MS. Harris discusses her issues with mental health after her basketball career was over as well as missed opportunities because she was a woman.
“I am excited that Shaquille O’Neal decided to join as an executive producer for ‘The Queen of Basketball.’ Shaq is one of my favorite basketball players and I have enjoyed following his career after the game. I truly appreciate having his support for this project,” Harris also told Deadline.
Check out the trailer to “The Queen of Basketball” below.
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPFkcoTfr7g[/embedyt]
