Nikki McCray-Penson, former head coach of the Old Dominion University women’s basketball team and two-time Olympic gold medalist, has tragically passed away at the age of 51.
The news of McCray-Penson’s death has left the ODU community devastated. She made a lasting impact on the world of basketball, both as an athlete and as a coach. ODU Director of Athletics, Wood Selig, expressed his grief and admiration for McCray-Penson, stating that she had a profound influence on the game and was destined for coaching success. Her drive, passion, and love for the game inspired those around her to strive for excellence. It is unfortunate that future student-athletes will not have the opportunity to experience McCray-Penson’s coaching expertise. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her husband, Thomas, and son, Thomas Jr., during this difficult time.
During her tenure as head coach, McCray-Penson led the ODU women’s basketball team to a record of 53-40 over three seasons. In the 2019-20 season, she guided the team to an impressive 24-6 record and a likely spot in the NCAA tournament, which was ultimately canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
DeLisha Milton-Jones, the current head coach of ODU women’s basketball, expressed her sadness over McCray-Penson’s passing. She praised her former teammate and friend for her courage and the lasting legacy she leaves behind. McCray-Penson was not only a remarkable person and coach but also a mentor to countless women in the basketball community.
McCray-Penson’s coaching career extended beyond ODU. After the 2019-20 season, she accepted the head coaching position at Mississippi State. Following a brief hiatus for health reasons, she returned to coaching in the 2022-23 season as an assistant coach at Rutgers.
In addition to her coaching achievements, McCray-Penson had an illustrious playing career. She played nine seasons in the WNBA, following a successful two-year stint in the American Basketball League. As a rookie, she led the Columbus Quest to the ABL championship and was named the league’s MVP. In the WNBA, McCray-Penson played for the Washington Mystics, where she was the team’s leading scorer for two seasons and earned three All-Star appearances. She concluded her playing career with the Indiana Fever, Phoenix Mercury, San Antonio Silver Stars, and Chicago Sky.
McCray-Penson was also a key member of the U.S. women’s basketball team, contributing to Olympic gold medal victories in 1996 and 2000.
Her impact extended to her college years, where she played for the legendary coach Pat Summitt at Tennessee. McCray-Penson helped lead the Lady Vols to great success, including SEC regular-season titles, conference tournament championships, and NCAA tournament appearances. She was recognized as an All-American and SEC Player of the Year during her junior and senior years.
After her playing career, McCray-Penson transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Western Kentucky and South Carolina before taking on the head coaching role at ODU.
Nikki McCray-Penson’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence the basketball community. Her remarkable achievements as an athlete and coach will be remembered for years to come. May she rest in peace.