NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024
“Our NWBA Baron® rings have helped legitimize our Hall of Fame. Every inductee can’t help but smile big as they look down or hold their Baron® ring up. It’s a beautiful ring that we display proudly as HOFers. Thank you, Baron®, for your support and partnership!”
– David Kiley, Chairman of the NWBA Hall of Fame
Honouring the NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 Inductees: Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith, Dr. Darlene Hunter, and Cheryl Lady Vines.
NWBA CLASS OF 2024 ENSHRINEMENT CEREMONY
April 19, 2024, Colorado Springs, CO – The National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) Hall of Fame Committee announced its newest inductees, the NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024, into the NWBA Hall of Fame.
We at Baron®, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the NWBA for this remarkable honor. The partnership between NWBA and Baron® Championship Rings symbolizes not just a tribute to past triumphs but also a commitment to upholding unmatched quality and innovation in the Hall of Fame Rings sector.
During the NWBA Hall of Fame Red Carpet event, host Matt Scott asked the Chairman of the NWBA Hall of Fame, David Kiley, about the steps taken since assuming his role. David emphasized the effort to elevate and recognize athletes to the level of the sport’s greatest players.
He highlighted the strong committee and volunteers, collaboration with local organizations like Sportable in Richmond, and partnerships with sponsors like Reveal for jackets and Baron® for rings. The aim is to establish a legitimate Hall of Fame deserving of the sport’s rich history.
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 is comprised of three outstanding individuals: Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith, Dr. Darlene Hunter, and Cheryl Lady Vines.
In a historic first for the NWBA Hall of Fame, the Class of 2024 stands as an exclusive testament to women’s achievements. The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 is solely composed of women. This milestone aligns with the 50th Anniversary of the Women’s Sports Foundation, reinforcing its mission for sports equity.
Comprising two athletes and one contributor, this class exemplifies remarkable talent and service to wheelchair basketball.
David Kiley, Chairman of the NWBA Hall of Fame, reflected on the historical evolution of women’s impact in sports.
“In 1973, Tim Nan was our first inductee. We went 21 years and 61 men later without one woman in the Hall of Fame. Until Sharon Hedrick came along and broke down that barrier with her gain it was so strong and she was inducted in 1994. That was then, this is now. It’s again, it’s historic and amazing.”
The induction ceremony was scheduled for Saturday, April 13th, 2024, at War Memorial in Richmond, VA, coinciding with the 2024 NWBT National Championships.
The Red Carpet event was hosted once again by 5x Paralympian & 2x Gold Medalist, Matt Scott, and the ceremony was live-streamed on the NWBA Hall of Fame YouTube Channel, and Facebook’s video feed.
Join us in extending heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith, Dr. Darlene Hunter, and Cheryl Lady Vines as they join the esteemed ranks of the NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024, each receiving a well-deserved Hall of Fame Ring.
NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 Photo Gallery
The NWBA Hall of Fame shared these incredible photos with Baron® Championship Rings from the Class of 2024 induction ceremony. We are grateful for their cooperation in providing this amazing content!
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 is showing the NWBA Hall of Fame Rings at the induction ceremony. Photo created by @prophotova
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024’s Cheryl Lady Vines showing the NWBA Hall of Fame Ring at the induction ceremony. Photo created by @prophotova
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024’s Dr. Darlene Hunter at the induction ceremony. Photo created by @prophotova
On the Red Carpet at the NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 induction ceremony. Photo created by @prophotova
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 showed the NWBA blue jackets by Reveal at the induction ceremony. Photo created by @prophotova
Class of 2024 Enshrinement
Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith
Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith, a prominent figure in wheelchair basketball for over two decades, boasts an impressive career as both a player and advocate.
Her achievements include a Gold Medal at the 2010 World Championship and notable roles on the 2012 Paralympic Team. Beyond her on-court success, Andrea has broken barriers as the second Female African American on a Paralympic Team. Also, Andrea has contributed significantly to the growth of wheelchair basketball through her service on various NWBA committees.
Holding a Ph.D. in Kinesiology, she currently serves as Interim Chair of the Department of Kinesiology and Recreation Administration at North Carolina Central University, showcasing her commitment to athlete development and adapted sports promotion.
Dr. Woodson-Smith’s multifaceted contributions make her induction into the Hall of Fame well-deserved.
The NWBA Hall of Fame shared these incredible photos with Baron® Championship Rings from the Class of 2024 induction ceremony. We are grateful for their cooperation in providing this amazing content! Photos created by @prophotova
The NWBA Hall of Fame shared these incredible photos with Baron® Championship Rings from the Class of 2024 induction ceremony. We are grateful for their cooperation in providing this amazing content! Photos created by @prophotova
Pam Fontaine presenting Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith
“Pam and I are like two peas in a pod. From the very first moment of playing on the Lady (Texans) Mavs she took me under her wing and helped develop me into the best wheelchair basketball athlete and advocate that I could be. We became family to one another throughout these past twenty-four years. I chose Pam Fontaine to present the HoF award to me because she was the first person I met in wheelchair basketball, who then recruited me into the sport, provided the opportunities for me to grow within the sport, and nominated me to the Hall of Fame; full circle. There is no other person more deserving of this role,” said Andrea.
“📜🗣️ #HOFer, Will Waller, Class of 2023, has a special message for Dr. Andrea Woodson-Smith, Class of 2024!”
“How exciting for me to hear the news that you have been inducted into the NWBA Hall of Fame. When I looked at the news and saw that you got inducted and got the call from the Hall. I just have a few reflections as I’ve had a chance to track your career, watch your career, play during some of the time that you were playing and whether it was domestically flying across the US or internationally on Parapan teams, World Championship teams, or Paralympic teams. I just can’t think about anything other than the dominant force that you were and working towards becoming the most excellent player that you could possibly be. And when I think about the bar that there is for someone to go into the NWBA Hall Of Fame. I think that you are excellent, and personified in terms of the level of commitment that you put into the game. And how you did all of that in terms of striving and achieving at all levels of the game. Just how you also did that in other aspects of your life from an educational perspective, a work perspective as a professor, and then the work I was so lucky to have you do in joining the NWBA on different communities in order to give back to the sport. And to me, that’s one of the most impressive things about you, is that you gave everything that you had!”
Dr. Darlene Hunter
Dr. Darlene Hunter, a resilient leader from Walled Lake, Michigan, overcame adversity to become a driving force in wheelchair basketball. From her early introduction to sports after a childhood injury, Darlene’s journey unfolded with remarkable success.
As a National Team Member and Co-Captain of the 2020/2021 Paralympic Team, she secured multiple medals, including a Bronze in Tokyo. Beyond her athletic achievements, Darlene’s coaching roles and annual women’s wheelchair development camp at the University of Texas-Arlington showcase her dedication to nurturing talent.
Holding a PhD in Family Studies, she actively advocates for policy changes within sports organizations and serves on various boards and committees, including as the Athlete Representative for Wheelchair Basketball. Dr. Darlene Hunter’s unwavering commitment and leadership rightfully earn her a place in the Hall of Fame, leaving an enduring legacy in wheelchair basketball.
Congratulations to a true pioneer and inspiration.
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024’s Dr. Darlene Hunter showing the NWBA Hall of Fame Ring at the induction ceremony. Photos created by @prophotova
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024’s Dr. Darlene Hunter at the induction ceremony. Photos created by @prophotova
Mike Godsey presenting Dr. Darlene Hunter
“Mike Godsey is one of the most genuine people that I know and was a huge support to me and my development as a leader of the NWBA. I value his friendship and knowledge. I’m so happy I get to share this moment with him,” said Darlene.
“📜🗣️ #HOFer, Willie Hernandez, Class of 2023, has a special message for Dr. Darlene Hunter, Class of 2024!”
“On behalf of the NWBA, congratulations Darlene for making it to the Hall Of Fame! Well, this is a moment for you. This is your time. Enjoy it because you have had a long journey to get to this spot. So, welcome to the Hall Of Fame!”
Cheryl Lady Vines
Cheryl Lady Vines, a stalwart in wheelchair basketball, earns induction into the NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024 as a Contributor.
Cheryl’s journey began in 1972, witnessing her first game and igniting a lifelong passion. From supporting teams like the Valley Freewheelers to her pivotal role with the Arkansas Rollin Razorbacks, Cheryl’s dedication spans decades, contributing to numerous post-season tournaments and National Championships. She established scholarships and awards recognizing excellence in academics, sports, and community service.
Cheryl broke barriers as the first woman on the Tournament Selection Committee, later chairing it. Her impact extended as she supported her husband, Harry Vines, during his NWBA presidency, aiding in organizational growth.
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024’s Cheryl Lady Vines at the induction ceremony. Photos created by @prophotova
The NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024’s Cheryl Lady Vines at the induction ceremony showing the NWBA Hall of Fame Ring. Photos created by @prophotova
As a classifier and treasurer in the Hall of Fame committee, Cheryl’s leadership ensures the Hall of Fame’s prominence and pride for all attendees. Cheryl Lady Vines’ unwavering commitment and advocacy merit her place in the esteemed Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
David Kiley presenting Cheryl Vines
“When I learned I was to be inducted, the first person I thought of to induct me was Dave. We go way back, I’ve been his fan for years, but more than that, we have shared highs and lows in life together and have worked together to make the NWBA better,” said Cheryl.
“📜🗣️ #HOFer, Jayne Chilutti, Class of 2023, has a special message for Cheryl Vines, Class of 2024!”
“Hi, it’s Jayne Chilutti, a member of the NWBA Hall of Fame Class of 2023 and I am very excited and happy to welcome Cheryl Vines to the NWBA Hall of Fame as part of the all-women Class of 2024. Cheryl, I want you to remember how you felt when you got that call from the Hall and that feeling and you take that with you all the way to the stage. So when you get your blazer, you get your ring, you get your plaque, and you get inducted into the Hall of Fame. I will tell you there is no better feeling. So congratulations and welcome to the Hall of Fame.”
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