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Georgeann Wells

2026 Inductee

2026

Georgeann Wells

Georgiann Wells made basketball history on December 21, 1984, becoming the first woman to dunk in a regulation NCAA game while playing for West Virginia University. This groundbreaking feat, accomplished with a men's basketball, remains one of the most talked about achievements in sports history and is commemorated with a display in the Naismith Hall of Fame.

The 6'7" center began her basketball journey at Columbus Northland High School, averaging 11.9 points a game. She helped lead her team to the 1982 OHSAA State Championship. At West Virginia University (1983-1986), Wells dominated the paint, establishing herself as one of the most formidable post players in women's college basketball. She earned recognition as an American Women's Sports Federation All-American, Kodak All-American (1985), and All-American 3rd Team honoree, while making the All-Atlantic Team from 1984 to 1986.

Wells left an indelible mark on WVU's record books, establishing the all-time blocks record with 436—a testament to her defensive prowess. She averaged 14 points and 10.1 rebounds per game throughout her career, totaling 1,484 points and 1,075 rebounds. Her excellence was recognized with induction into the WVU Hall of Fame in 2007 and selection to the Big 12 Inaugural Alumni Council in 2024.

Following her collegiate career, Wells continued making history, winning the 1988 Women's ABL Inaugural Slam Dunk Contest. She played professionally with the Harlem Globetrotters and competed internationally in Japan, Spain, Italy, and France from 1986 to 2003, sharing her extraordinary talents with basketball fans worldwide.

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