SAMANTHA AND ONE

Lili Thompson

NCAA Women's Basketball National Champion/former Harlem and Director of PGC

Know More About Lili Thompson

Lillie was a standout player at Stanford University where she played for three years. She then transferred to Notre Dame and was a member of the 2017 to 2018 National championship, and she is now a director at PGC Basketball.

Drawing from her experience, Lili Thompson identifies one of the most challenging aspects of competing at D1 schools as meeting the expectation to learn off the court and rapidly apply it during gameplay. This application process, taking knowledge from practice and film sessions into the court, can prove to be a steep learning curve for young players. At the college level, this ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical action swiftly isn't merely encouraged; it is anticipated, highlighting the high standards and rigor associated with D1 school competition.

Reflecting on her basketball journey, Lili Thompson suggests that understanding the simplicity of the game could have enhanced her skills as a young player. She explains that during her youth, she often overcomplicated the game, feeling pressured to acquire a multitude of skills. However, with her current perspective, she recognizes that the core of basketball is much simpler than she initially thought. This knowledge would have helped her become an even better player, highlighting the importance of focusing on the fundamentals and the essence of the game, rather than getting lost in complexity.


As an alumna of the Harlem Globetrotters, Lili Thompson offers a brief history of the esteemed organization, emphasizing its significant role in basketball history. The Globetrotters originated during a time when segregation prevented black players from participating in the NBA. They provided an avenue for these players to showcase their talent, serving as a vital platform for black athletes. When desegregation allowed for integration into the NBA, several Harlem Globetrotters, including legendary figures like Wilt Chamberlain and Dr. J Julius Irving, were instrumental in the inaugural integrated NBA season. Thus, the Harlem Globetrotters have contributed significantly to the progression of inclusive professional basketball.

SAMANTHA AND ONE

Copyright 2023 . All rights reserved