Essence Carson, a WNBA champion, now has a court named after her in her hometown of Paterson. The Essence Carson Champions Court was unveiled in Buckley Park, surrounded by Carson’s family and friends. Carson spoke about the importance of having a court named after a female player, emphasizing the need for representation in sports.
Carson’s journey began in Paterson, where she used garbage cans to create a makeshift basketball court in her neighborhood at the age of 10. From there, she rose to become a high school star and had a successful professional career, winning a WNBA championship.
The court in Paterson is a symbol of recognition for Carson’s achievements and a source of inspiration for young women in the city. Carson believes that seeing a court named after a female player can empower young women to realize their potential and make a difference in the world.
The unveiling ceremony brought back memories for Carson’s childhood friends, who reminisced about their days playing on the asphalt courts of Paterson. They recalled the challenges they faced in proving themselves against boys and the pride they felt in seeing Carson succeed.
Carson’s former coach, Edward Black, praised her work ethic and dedication. He remembered her sneaking over to the gymnasium during lunchtime to practice and playing with older girls to improve her skills. Carson’s commitment to the game set her apart from her peers and showcased her talent.
Naming basketball courts after female players is still relatively uncommon, but the trend is changing. Players like Lynette Woodard and Angel Reese have had courts named after them. Even Carson’s college coach, C. Vivian Stringer, was honored with a court naming in 2020. These recognitions are a step toward greater representation and equality in sports.
Carson’s basketball career had its challenges, including facing racial discrimination. When her team made it to the NCAA championship game in 2007, they faced offensive comments from a shock jock that overshadowed their success. But Carson handled the situation with grace, showing her strength of character and resilience.
Her basketball journey led her to be chosen as the seventh overall pick in the 2008 WNBA draft by the New York Liberty. She became an All-Star in 2011 and was known for her two-way play. In 2020, Carson was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Rutgers University, where she had played college basketball.
The Essence Carson Champions Court is a testament to Carson’s impact on basketball and her community. It serves as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness. Carson’s success story inspires young women in Paterson and beyond to dream big and strive for their goals.
By naming courts after female players like Essence Carson, we create a more inclusive and equal sports landscape. Representation matters, and Carson’s court in Paterson is a symbol of progress and empowerment. With more recognition for female athletes, we can inspire the next generation of champions who will change the world.
