In celebration of Womenâs History Month, the Memphis Grizzlies hosted their sixth annual Girls’ Summit on March 10, an inspiring sports clinic presented by Nike.
Designed to introduce young women to career opportunities in competitive sports, the summit featured hands-on demonstrations and panel discussions with former and current professional athletes.
With support from the Womenâs Foundation for a Greater Memphis, 220 middle school girls participated in the event, exploring both traditional and non-traditional sports, including basketball, cheer, soccer, and volleyball. Nike also facilitated a sports bra fitting station, transforming what can often be an uncomfortable moment for young girls into an empowering experience.
The Grizzlies have long been leaders in fostering diversity within their organization. In 2019, they made history by hiring Niele Ivey as the ninth female coach in NBA history. Before joining the Grizzlies, Ivey spent 12 seasons with Notre Dame womenâs basketball, serving as associate head coach and recruiting coordinator for four of them. In 2020, she returned to Notre Dame as head coach, succeeding Hall of Famer Muffet McGraw.
Following Iveyâs departure, the Grizzlies continued their commitment to diversity by hiring Sonia Raman, the former head coach of MITâs womenâs basketball team, as an assistant coach. Ivey played a key role in mentoring Raman as she transitioned into her new role.
Four years later, Raman remains an integral part of the Grizzliesâ coaching staff, building strong relationships with players and contributing significantly in a scouting capacity.
âWhen you look at DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives, so much of that starts with diversity, right?â Raman said in November 2020, just months after joining the team. âIt starts with hiring. I think the Grizzlies have done such a great job with that.
âIâm not the first woman hereâthey were already ahead of that. Niele paved the way for me. And really, there are amazing women in this organization everywhere, not just on the coaching side. Women are involved in all aspects of this organization.
âWe need to continue creating opportunities for women across different career paths. From there, progress will follow. The Grizzlies have set an incredible example in that area.â
By hosting the Girls’ Summit, the Grizzlies continue reinforcing their commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that young women see a future for themselves in sportsâwhether on the court, the sidelines, or beyond.
