50 Years of the Women’s Basketball Poll: A Legacy of Promoting Women’s Athletics

When Mel Greenberg’s boss approached him a half century ago about starting the women’s basketball poll, he hesitated. The Philadelphia Inquirer sports writer was unsure if he could gather the necessary information to create a credible poll, given the limited coverage of women’s games in 1976.

Despite the challenges, Greenberg persevered and launched a poll that has since become a cornerstone of women’s college basketball. As the 2021 season kicks off, it marks the 50th anniversary of a poll that has played a significant role in shaping the sport and elevating women’s athletics.

Greenberg’s initial hurdles included gaining approval from the Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women, which initially expressed skepticism about the idea of a women’s basketball poll. However, with the support of coaches and a growing interest in the sport, Greenberg was able to establish a network of coaches who contributed their votes each week.

Over the years, the poll transitioned from coach voting to journalist involvement, with The Associated Press taking over its administration in the mid-1990s. Greenberg’s dedication to the poll remained unwavering, as he continued to update his extensive database and contribute to the rankings until his retirement in 2010.

The impact of Greenberg’s work is evident in the recognition and visibility it brought to women’s college basketball. Coaches and players alike credit him for his role in promoting the sport and providing a platform for teams to showcase their talent.

Today, Greenberg’s legacy lives on as he continues to attend games and support women’s basketball, reflecting on his 50 years of dedication to the sport. His contributions have not only shaped the landscape of women’s athletics but have also paved the way for future generations of players and fans to engage with the game.

For more on AP women’s college basketball, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball and https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll