Stanford University has announced that it will be renaming its basketball court at Maples Pavilion in honor of former coach Tara VanDerveer. The court will now be known as “Tara VanDerveer Court,” paying tribute to her incredible contributions to the program. Additionally, one of the assistant coaching positions on the Stanford staff will be designated as the “Tara VanDerveer Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach,” with this year’s title being bestowed upon recently hired assistant coach Heather Oesterle.
VanDerveer, who retired after last season, spent an impressive 38 years at Stanford and 45 years overall in women’s college basketball. Throughout her illustrious career, she led the Cardinal to three NCAA championships and an impressive 14 Final Four appearances. With 531 victories on the court, VanDerveer’s impact on the program is undeniable and it is only fitting that the court will now bear her name.
Expressing her gratitude for this honor, VanDerveer stated, “I have many wonderful memories of leading the women’s basketball program at Maples Pavilion.” She added, “It’s an honor, and a little surreal, to know that my name will be linked to both in these ways, and I look forward to celebrating with all our fans this fall.”
The decision to rename the court after VanDerveer is a testament to her outstanding coaching career and the impact she has had on the university and women’s basketball as a whole. With 1,216 total career victories, VanDerveer holds the record for the most wins in NCAA history. This achievement solidifies her status as one of the greatest coaches in the sport.
Stanford University plans to celebrate this well-deserved honor by unveiling the court at a home game in November. It will be a momentous occasion for both VanDerveer and the university, as they come together to recognize and appreciate the incredible legacy she has left behind.
This renaming of the court serves as a reminder of the lasting impact that coaches can have on their players and the sport as a whole. VanDerveer’s success and dedication have not only shaped the Stanford women’s basketball program, but have also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams in the sport. Her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
In conclusion, Stanford University’s decision to rename its basketball court after Tara VanDerveer is a fitting tribute to her outstanding coaching career and the indelible mark she has left on the program. As the court is unveiled in November, it will be a moment of celebration and appreciation for VanDerveer’s immense contributions to women’s basketball. Her legacy will forever be etched into the fabric of Stanford University and will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.