Margaret Wade (basketball)

Margaret Wade (July 30, 1912 – March 5, 1995) was an American basketball coach. Often referred to as the "Mother of Women's College Basketball," she is credited with pioneering and popularizing the sport. Wade served as the head coach of the Delta State University women's basketball team from 1929 to 1932 and again from 1950 to 1973.

Under Wade's leadership, the Delta State Lady Statesmen won three consecutive Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) National Championships in 1975, 1976, and 1977. These were landmark achievements in the early years of organized women's college basketball. She amassed a career record of 453-80 during her tenure at Delta State.

Wade was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985, becoming the first female player or coach to be so honored. The Wade Trophy, presented annually to the best women's basketball player in NCAA Division I, is named in her honor. Her legacy extends beyond her coaching record, as she played a crucial role in establishing and legitimizing women's basketball on a national level.