Nikki McCray-Penson, a three-time WNBA All-Star who also won two Olympic gold medals on her way to the Hall of Fame, died Friday.
She was 51. No cause of death was given, although McCray-Penson had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013.
McCray-Penson had been an assistant coach at Rutgers since 2022, and head coach Coquese Washington confirmed her death to the New York Post Friday.
“Today is deeply sad and emotional day for everyone who knew and loved Nikki,” Washington said (via The Post). “Nikki had a big smile and an even bigger heart. She was full of life, energy, and was so much fun to be around. Nikki touched the lives of many because she made it her mission to uplift others and help them achieve whatever dreams and goals they expressed.”
A Tennessee native who went on to star for the Tennessee Volunteers, winning two SEC Player of the Year Awards, McCray-Penson played nine WNBA seasons. The 5-foot-11 guard played for five different teams and was a three-time WNBA All-Star. She also won gold medals in 1996 and 2000 with the U.S. Olympic basketball team.
After her playing career, McCray-Penson went on to hold assistant coaching jobs at several colleges, and was the head coach at Old Dominion and Mississippi State.
McCray-Penson also was active in community service. She served as a member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. She was the keynote speaker for the Women’s History Month Address in 1999.
The basketball world quickly paid tribute to McCray-Penson after news of her passing. Longtime basketball broadcaster Dick Vitale noted, “I am so heartbroken hearing this news a few minutes ago about Nikki McCray – Penson . Loved everything about Nikki – she was a Hall of Famer as a player & as a person . May Nikki RIP.”
I am so heartbroken hearing this news a few minutes ago about Nikki McCray – Penson . Loved everything about Nikki – she was a Hall of Famer as a player & as a person . May Nikki RIP https://t.co/TdAeQN9KJn
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) July 7, 2023
Our program, our sport and most importantly her family lost an amazing woman – mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend, coach, mentor – today.
Nikki McCray-Penson was part of our foundation and made us the program we are, one personal relationship at a time
pic.twitter.com/jSRQY9Vnmx — South Carolina Women's Basketball (@GamecockWBB) July 7, 2023
We are deeply saddened by the passing of two-time Olympic gold medalist Nikki McCray-Penson.
Our sister & our friend, Nikki was more than a champion.
USA Basketball extends its condolences to the McCray & Penson families in this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/zsI0z0nnnD
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) July 7, 2023
Remembering #LVFL Nikki McCray-Penson
• 1994 SEC Player of the Year
• 1995 SEC Player of the Year
• 1,572 Career Points as a Lady Vol
• 5x SEC Champion
• 2x All-American• 3x WNBA All-Star
• 2x Olympic Gold Medalist
• 2012 @WBHOF inducteeA Lady Vol Legend
pic.twitter.com/sI8vJDNMxR — Lady Vols Basketball (@LadyVol_Hoops) July 7, 2023
Our hearts are heavy as we learn of the passing of Nikki McCray-Penson. A beloved member of our WNBA family, Nikki was a 3x WNBA All-Star during her 8 seasons in the league.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Nikki's family and loved ones at this time. pic.twitter.com/PkCnLiSgNQ
— WNBA (@WNBA) July 7, 2023
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.