USC Women’s Basketball Legend Cheryl Miller Honored with Induction into California Hall of Fame

Legendary USC women's basketball alum Cheryl Miller has been announced as one of 10 distinguished Californians who will be inducted into the California Hall of Fame, as announced Jan. 11, 2024, by Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. The 17th class of inductees includes a grouping of leaders who span various sectors of science, public service, entertainment and sports — all of whom embody California's innovative spirit. 

Miller, a name synonymous with excellence in basketball, has established a legacy through her tremendous athletic talent and unwavering dedication both on and off the court. During her time as a forward at USC, anchoring back-to-back NCAA Championships for the Women of Troy in 1983 and 1984, Miller dominated the record books. The 1984 Honda-Broderick Cup winner, she still holds USC records for career scoring (3,018 points), scoring average (22.3 ppg), rebounds(1,534), rebound average (12.0 rpg) and free throws made (700). 

A four-time All-American and three-time Naismith Award recipient at USC, Miller also starred as a member of Team USA, winning a gold medal at the 1984 Olympics. She also holds a place both in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame. Miller would return to USC as the fourth head coach for the Women of Troy, guiding such greats as Lisa Leslie and Tina Thompson and winning a conference crown during her two-season tenure from 1993-95.

Off the court, Miller had a successful 17-year career as a television reporter, commentator and analyst covering the NBA on a number of television networks including TNT and ABC. In 1996, Miller became the first female analyst to call a nationally televised men's professional basketball game. 

The California Hall of Fame, created to honor legends and trailblazers who embody California's innovative spirit, recognizes leaders whose achievements have created an impact in the state, nation and the world. Joining Cheryl Miller in the 17th class of Hall of Fame inductees are Helene An, Willie L. Brown, Jr., Vinton G. Cerf, Ava DuVernay, The Go-Go's, Thelton E. Henderson, Los Lobos, Leon E. Panetta and Brenda Way.