On a historic day for Stanford University athletics, the hardwood floor at Maples Pavilion was christened “Tara VanDerveer Court,” a fitting tribute to the legendary women’s basketball coach who led the Cardinal to unparalleled success over nearly four decades. The dedication ceremony, held prior to Stanford’s 89-58 victory over Gonzaga, celebrated VanDerveer’s immeasurable impact on the sport and the university.
A Legacy Etched in Hardwood
As the Stanford faithful gathered to witness the unveiling, the significance of the moment was lost on no one. VanDerveer, who retired after the 2023 season, left an indelible mark on college basketball, amassing an astounding 1,216 wins – more than any other Division I coach, male or female. Her tenure at Stanford was marked by three national championships, 13 Final Four appearances, and 25 Pac-12 titles.
Tara VanDerveer is synonymous with excellence, both on and off the court. Her impact extends far beyond wins and losses; she has shaped countless lives and served as a pioneering force in the growth of women’s basketball.
– Bernard Muir, Stanford Athletic Director
A Mentor’s Enduring Influence
For Kate Paye, who played under VanDerveer and served as her assistant for 17 years before assuming the head coaching role, the court dedication held special meaning. Paye, along with fellow VanDerveer protégés and current Stanford assistants Katy Steding, Erica McCall, and Jeanette Pohlen, carries on the tradition of excellence instilled by their mentor.
It was really cool, right before the game started, to hear the announcer say, ‘For the first time ever, welcome to Tara VanDerveer Court at Maples Pavilion.’ It definitely gave me chills.
– Kate Paye, Stanford Women’s Basketball Coach
The Cardinal’s dominant performance against Gonzaga served as a fitting tribute to VanDerveer’s enduring legacy. With a new generation of players and coaches eager to uphold the standards she set, Stanford women’s basketball looks poised to maintain its position among the nation’s elite programs.
A Trailblazer’s Lasting Impact
VanDerveer’s influence extends far beyond the confines of Stanford’s campus. Her unwavering dedication to the advancement of women’s basketball helped elevate the sport to new heights, inspiring generations of players and coaches alike. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, excellence, and leadership.
Tara VanDerveer’s name is synonymous with the very best of college basketball. Her impact on the game, and on the lives of the players and coaches she mentored, is immeasurable.
– Geno Auriemma, UConn Women’s Basketball Coach
As the Stanford community celebrated the naming of Tara VanDerveer Court, the basketball world at large recognized the enduring legacy of a true icon. With her name now permanently etched on the hardwood where she built a dynasty, VanDerveer’s impact will continue to resonate for generations to come, serving as an inspiration for all those who strive for excellence in the face of adversity.
The Road Ahead
As Stanford women’s basketball embarks on a new era under the leadership of Kate Paye, the spirit of Tara VanDerveer remains an integral part of the program’s identity. With a talented roster and a coaching staff steeped in VanDerveer’s teachings, the Cardinal are poised to continue their tradition of success, all while honoring the legendary coach who paved the way.
The dedication of Tara VanDerveer Court serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a sport, a university, and countless lives. As the Stanford women’s basketball team takes the court for each home game, they will do so with the knowledge that they are playing on a surface that bears the name of a true legend, a mentor, and an inspiration.
Tara VanDerveer’s legacy will forever be a part of Stanford basketball, and her impact will continue to be felt by generations of players and coaches. She has set the standard for excellence, both on and off the court.
– Kate Paye, Stanford Women’s Basketball Coach
With the 2024-25 season underway, the Stanford Cardinal are focused on the future, driven by the desire to honor Tara VanDerveer’s legacy with their performance on the newly dedicated court. As they strive for continued success, they do so with the knowledge that they are part of something greater, a tradition of excellence that will endure for years to come.
