The Queen of Basketball | An Oscar-Winning Op-Doc

Update (Jan. 18): Lusia Harris - a pioneering athlete who became a basketball phenomenon in the 1970s, made history as the first woman to score a basket in the Olympics and was one of the first two women inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame - died on Jan. 18 in Mississippi. She was 66.
As a child growing up in rural Mississippi, Lusia “Lucy” Harris often stayed up past her bedtime watching her favorite N.B.A. players, dreaming of one day playing on the same courts. Reaching 6 feet 3 inches by the time she was in high school, Harris was often called “long and tall and that’s all” by her classmates - but she knew her height would be an asset on the court. And she wasn’t just tall enough to play the game. She was a rare talent who would go on to be a three-time national college champion and an Olympic silver medalist, making her a national sensation by the time she finished her college career.
For an electrifying young basketball player on the national stage, success often comes with a lucrative professional contract and brand deals - but Harris’s moment came in the 1970s, decades before the W.N.B.A. was founded, when few opportunities were available to female athletes interested in pursuing a professional career. In Ben Proudfoot's "The Queen of Basketball," Harris tells the story of what happens when an unstoppable talent runs out of games to win.
See more of "Almost Famous:" • ‘Almost Famous’ by Op-...
Credits
Director: Ben Proudfoot
Editors: Stephanie Owens, Ben Proudfoot
Executive Producers: Shaquille O'Neal, Stephen Curry, Mike Parris, Donnie F. Wilson, Erick Peyton, Jane Solomon, Adam Ellick, Ben Proudfoot
Featuring: Lusia “Lucy” Harris
Producers: Elizabeth Brooke, Abby Lynn Kang Davis, Gabriel Berk Godoi, Ben Proudfoot, Brandon Somerhalder, Sarah Stewart
Co-Executive Producer: Brian Tetsuro Ivie
Cinematographer: Brandon Somerhalder
Original Score Composed and Orchestrated by: Nicholas Jacobson-Larson
Co-Producer: Jeremy Lambert
Supervising Sound Editor and Re-Recording Mixer: Sean Higgins
Colorist: Stephen Derluguian
Post Production Supervisors: Dillon Brown, Laura Carlson
Additional Editing: Mónica Salazar, Nick Garnham Wright
Assistant Editor: Cody Wilson
Sound Effects Editor: T.J. Jacques
Second Unit Cinematographer: Haley Watson
Additional Music and Mixing: Erik Kertes
Musicians: Loren Battley, Nicholas Jacobson-Larson, Erik Kertes, Garth Neustadter
Archival Digitization: Hannah Auslander, Melanie Lim
Archival Research: Laura Jespersen
Story Reported by: Haley Watson
More from The New York Times Video:
Subscribe: bit.ly/U8Ys7n
Watch all of our videos here: nytimes.com/video
Facebook: / nytvideo
Twitter: / nytvideo
----------
Op-Docs is the New York Times’ award-winning series of short documentaries by independent filmmakers. Learn more about Op-Docs and how to submit to the series. Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@NYTopinion).

[@benproudfoot1409]

Hi, I’m Ben, the director of this film. Feel free to reply with any questions you have about the filmmaking, and I’ll do my best to answer them!

[@bubbagump658]

Hi Ben, the story telling and the story blew it out of the water. Simply the best thing I've seen in quite a while. Thank you

[@THER00BILLZ]

This needs to be movie if anything..im in tears

[@williamstewart7399]

Wow, Ben this was such an amazing film. Lucy’s story is very inspiring, I am wondering if you showed the film to her and her family prior to NYT posting it, if so can you tell us how they reacted?

[@jincks277]

Thank You Ben!!

[@prmaster]

Hi Ben, amazing film with an amazing story. Would like to know: Has she ever been honored by the Utah Jazz or any WNBA team? At least for a night?

[@michaelbraswell1607]

It confuses me as to how and why such an extraordinary athlete does not have a full-length movie based on her life. She defines "living legend".

[@naujitking2868]

Skin too dark that’s all

[@michaelbraswell1607]

@@naujitking2868 I beg to differ. As a self-proclaimed basketball geek, I had never even heard of a woman being offered the chance of being drafted into the NBA until watching this video. If the right people heard about this story, I don't think it would matter if she was neon green, her story would have to be told and showed on the big screen.

[@DFJ-qq3uf]

@@michaelbraswell1607 u really that naive huh

[@michaelbraswell1607]

@@DFJ-qq3uf either I'm that naive, or you empower others a lot more than you should.

[@naujitking2868]

@@michaelbraswell1607 exactly you didn’t know about her until watching this video, do you really believe if she was white there wouldn’t be a movie? Don’t tell me color don’t matter we live in America everything is about color here.

[@andrem.thomas332]

The WNBA needs an award in her name.

[@ascendedprophetessofTMH144k]

@@gashouse4672 got a match for the gas house

[@zeideerskine3462]

I think the NBA needs an award in her name. She was a basketball player not just a woman basketball player.

[@comedianpottymouth]

I hope she is in the basketball hall of fame!!

[@2stroketyson79]

They need to make her the Logo!

[@michaelcampbell5849]

Black people have to create and celebrate our achievements and create new opportunities.

[@firekingcrip]

Turned down the NBA to have a family, and all her children turned out successful! Born winner and a leader, love and respect to Queen Lucy 👸🏾

[@DeeDeeInTN]

She is the epitome of what success is. I've followed the WNBA since its inception. Met and watched the 'greats' of the game. Never have I been more moved, more impressed, and more proud of any women's basketball than Lusia (Lusi)! She has it all without being famous or super wealthy. She truly has it all! Love you Lusia. Thank you for you. Diane Springfield

[@Based601]

On God

[@benwyse]

Good mothers sacrifice more than we can ever imagine!

[@mad-mullah3117]

😂🤦🏾‍♂️ do you really think could've survived in the NBA, she will get impregnated in the court

[@noonecares7730]

@@mad-mullah3117 Yeah, she even said she knew she couldn't play in the NBA. That and she was 6'3" and had skills of a center.

[@DaKidGowie]

I shed a tear watching this. Amazing mini-doc. It showcases Miss Lusia's kindheartedness and bubbly personality. I'm so saddened that I'm just now finding out about this legend. She deserves to be mentioned with the GOATs. Both men and female. May she rest in peace. 🙏🏾🕊

[@tankdreadtv2990]

I know her she just gave me some clothes an her last autograph an told me she loves me right before she pass 🥺🥺😢😭R.I.P

[@gambit77]

Same here. Came here after finding out on Twitter. Wanted to see her story. Glad I did but wish I could've given her flowers while she was alive.

[@ahmadsmith3234]

She’s my auntie she’s so nice and sweet ❤️💯

[@bubblybubbles4023]

RIP Ms. Lusia Harris.❤️

[@ishadavis5212]

I also got emotional watching this short film… it resonated with me in a way I can’t even describe but I’m happy that I found this film I never heard of her so to learn new things about your culture and heritage it’s overwhelming and exciting I never knew her but my heart loves this woman because she gives us hope every little black girl who loves sports or basketball needs to see this ❤️❤️❤️ thank you so so much Ben

[@rayfordhickman3087]

She said " women's basketball has come a long way instead of saying: " I helped pave the way" " even in her older years, she remains humble.

[@u.twinston2343]

Well said 👍🏾👍🏾

[@carterfrvr]

The first woman to score in women's basketball at the Olympics! There should be so much more about her - what a great little window into such a great career! And her pride in her kids is so touching!

[@csmith9248]

That’s crazy!!! And never heard of this fantastic female….Cmon Netflix she deserves a movie!!!

[@retrokidbk83]

First African American woman inducted into the BASKETBALL Hall of Fame as well one of the members of the OG class of the Woman's Basketball Hall of Fame.

[@cornellfinney2855]

Beautiful women and wonderful family that achieve so much success her children's are doctors and lawyers ect, very attractive lady who a athlete and who love the game of basketball.

[@kyokitty16]

"Now that's a record, that'll never be broken." -Lucia Harris. I got chills

[@stymemcquarn893]

Bingo

[@blur986]

@Denmark Vassey what about ps5?

[@benthird5731]

@Denmark Vassey i listen to polo g though

[@joannaflowers5563]

Same here!

[@mrfunnylookinhayes9088]

@Denmark Vassey I love the ones who couldn't write and made amazing music. They was located in Lucy hometown.

[@iamnicthevet]

I just read today that she died, I had never heard of this woman. Thank you for making this film about her. What a sweet spirit she had. She needs to be honored in some kind of way as a pioneer. I found myself crying at the end as I looked at her angelic face. So many people pave the way for us to do anything we want to do in this world. She was one of those people. Thank you for sharing this and God bless her family. RIP Queen.

[@raineyj560]

😔😔😔 sad to hear she has passed on. I had never heard of her as well & I watch basketball & the WNBA (not as often as I should). This is why history is important, you can be 58 years old & just learn of someone so inspiring.

[@saundraking7168]

I love how she giggles when recounting her games! What wonderful memories she has!

[@q.t.gamingfamily]

Isn't she just beautiful.

[@Padilla4042]

That giggle says it all, right? Simply beautiful

[@RobWilly706]

I do too...that smile and giggle. My college🏀 coach had mentioned her back in 83-87. The Truth he called her❤👍🏾

[@aquillajones970]

She is tickled pink lol I love it

[@aquillajones970]

Now this young lady is what you call a bad chick

[@Kenzierose93]

This woman is so beautiful and amazing.

[@terrancethomas9792]

The Pacers also signed Ann Meyer the same year.

[@DrGryndMD]

ABSOLUTELY!!! She warms you up as you watch it!

[@rockvilleraven]

@@terrancethomas9792 Meyer is more famous for marrying Don Drysdale being part of the same marriage of two sports hall of famers. Ann is in the Basketball Hall of fame, Don was in the Baseball Hall after he pitched for the Dodgers.

[@armin38822]

Don't forget strong,independent and coregous.

[@thebestblainejohnson]

"We went without, but we didn't want for anything." Spirit. Character. Resilience. The world has far too little of this today.

[@baileybutterfly320]

Yes!! I wanted to cry when she said that!

[@cap10zomb]

She makes me see her as a real human being

[@aprilparker8114]

Wow.. that's what many families here would say too..back in the day..

[@Paula-nt2uc]

Straight from my mama mouth. I played basketball All my life and I'm ashamed of my lack of information on Me. Lucy.

[@BE-bk1tb]

@@cap10zomb As opposed to what? Scary that a video was required to make you see a human being as a human being.

[@tboone70]

Awesome story. Sadly I only heard of her when she died. She definitely needs to be recognized as a pioneer.

[@HollywoodCharityAuctioncom]

She died???

[@stevegood3224]

That has to be one of the best sports stories I have seen. Lucy is a true treasure.

[@peewee3030]

Facts 💯💯

[@phillipkelley3513]

@Steve Good...I agree 100%

[@kimberlymorrison8936]

Yes I cried tho

[@88freighttrain]

I have to apologize, I came up in the same era. I dreamed bball. I played w/ against some of the legends as a young 13 14yo. Lucy's story is more than admirable; right place, before time. Do the Living Legend on Lucy.

[@SoulSheIS]

"Because I'M LUCY!" "Long, tall ...And, that's NOT all"-- Such wonderful history! Blessings to Ms. Lucy! This could absolutely be a movie!

[@traplife5562]

I love this Lady .such a wonderful soul

[@KSoloLoso]

Get a wnba player to play the younger Lucy and Octavia Spencer to play the older lucy and we got a movie

[@charliearcese]

That laugh is so contagious. I would just love to sit and talk with her she seems so lovely.

[@helenfleming834]

You would love it she has so many stories and is such a beautiful person inside and out and can singgg

[@CagedbirdFree]

@@helenfleming834 WOW! Im sure she has an angelic voice. Because her spirit is divine.

[@helenfleming834]

@@CagedbirdFree a beautiful baritone. Perfect for the old hymns she loves to sing.

[@gheewhiz]

@@helenfleming834 is she recorded singing anywhere? Id love to hear her ❤

[@chrissearl796]

Rest In Peace to an absolute Queen Thank you Ben for making sure many people knew her story before she died - and thank you for immortalizing her at the same time

[@purplepixi18]

Her giggle, her smile, her personality! Omg everything about this woman is absolute joy!

[@suaveofjudah]

Exactly what I thought!

[@mrfunnylookinhayes9088]

Right. I felt the pure love in her.

[@LonzosStudios]

yeah, I smiled every time she giggled.

[@prisalvarado4056]

I would looooove to watch a movie about Lucy and her life :) She's such an amazing and inspiring woman.

[@yussufabukar32]

That would be a really good movie

[@Nan-59]

Yes

[@abd-bm3cd]

That's the movie to make, not fictional remakes of old movies with all female casts. There are so many real inspirational women throughout history that deserve the recognition, yet we are stuck with Ghostbusters.

[@Giraffeinastang]

Starring A’ja Wilson!

[@slykboss5530]

Yea.. great movie material

[@jarradratliff2700]

I grew up with her twin girls. Really couldn't tell that she's a celebrity, such a quiet sweet woman.

[@missqt48]

She looks humble and she’s got a wonderful smile and infectious laugh ☺️ I’m definitely going to do more research about her and present to my Saturday school class. She’s a great role model. A successful black female athlete.✨

[@Natethegreat4]

RIP to the original queen of basketball 🏀 🙏🏽🙏🏽. Wish I would’ve known her story before she passed. This had me smiling the whole time. What a wonderful woman she is!!!!

[@Rich-tb6uh]

She was the absolute truth! Kareem talked about her years ago that’s how I became aware of her. She was ahead of her time and in the wrong era honestly. I hope one of these basketball podcasts interviews her soon...

[@futurehofer1564]

she paved the way for what women have now in basketball, she wasnt ahead of her time she was chosen as a pioneer to change the game and thats just what she did

[@alero2010]

Wow what a life. She was a champion in high school, college, Olympics and raising 4 highly educated children.

[@gilbertmarzett4366]

I am so sad,and disappointed that I had never heard of this pioneering woman. There should be a movie made about you! And the Olympic committee should be honoring you,and the ground breaking ladies of the first Women’s Olympic Basketball Teams!

[@cornellfinney2855]

💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯⛹️‍♀️😘💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕. I've read about you and you will never be forgotten, bless you and your family you did every right. Shalom(. sister)

[@shanteecoleman8003]

Ikr 🙆🏾‍♀️ I'm Surprised of Hollyweird I Never heard of them missing out on Money of ANY kind This needs looked into cause it's sum more to this Story Somebody needs to get to digging on this cause it's RARE Af there's No Movie of sum kind Btw 😏 Ah BlkW can do ANYTHING,☝🏾 tht is Whteva she wants Dnt Believe Me Just Watch ☝🏾😌👉🏿😎 #StpPlayin

[@jamardns77]

I can definitely see Gabriel union playing her

[@prettypoppin_552]

@@jamardns77 She's not tall enough

[@juicelino3867]

RIP Lucia. 🙏🏽💐 I m so glad they were able to make this short film about her and she was able to watch it. The WNBA or WCBB should have an award named after her. My condolences to the family. Yahoo brought me here. 😊

[@rizingpho3nix]

She's a legend no matter how you look at it.

[@shena1256]

She seems like she was outstanding in everything she did. Including being a mother. ❤️

[@comedianpottymouth]

That's her greatest success.

[@realabbzzy8856]

@@comedianpottymouth amen sister they greatest success

[@paulbright5081]

No doubt! Her kids were all successful.

[@stephaniecollins9202]

Amen.

[@williamhargrove9713]

Proud of you. Was great player

[@broaddusmarines]

I have no idea why this video popped up when I came to KZbin today, but I’m so glad it did.

[@gloriabrisco2810]

Wow...that's the same thing I just said!!!

[@RedeemFit777]

Same

[@RedeemFit777]

Thank you for your service 🙏

[@Bopyrighted]

Wow, just when you thought you were a basketball nerd. You learn about THE best kept secret in the history of that orange ball… Being familiar with all of the mens ball players mentioned only adds to the lore. She was a legend amongst legends. As sad as it is to learn of her only on her passing, she’s forever etched into my mind! Thank you for your contribution and Rest In Peace Ms Lusia Harris 🙏🏾

[@cbwavy]

She looked like she was holding down a lot of emotion. Would love to see an uncut version

[@riccardo958]

@@GQ2593 wow, you really think you've made something here. I can't understand how you find trolling fun.

[@baileybutterfly320]

@@riccardo958 You can tell she was holding back with the laughter. I can tell she has some regrets. I’m happy her children have gone on and done GREAT things

[@telikaandfam]

especially when she mentioned her parents

[@helloworld3943]

@@telikaandfam Yes

[@ephraimakoto3657]

She missed the opportunity for the Green stuff women worship - Money.

[@phillipwilliamsjr.8090]

I am a basketball enthusiast and I feel so sad that I never knew about this wonderful basketball player she immediately became my favorite female basketball player ever. There should be a movie about her

[@Corneilus1]

In my 40 + years of bball, never heard of her Till now, that's a travesty!

[@CactusJackTravisScott]

Yeah they should make a netflix documentary that has episodes and stuff like 'The Last Dance' about michael jordan

[@robertmaeurerofficial]

Exactly. I majored in PE and had strong female professors. Not once

[@troydogg2716]

i would love to see a Biopic called.. Queen Lucy...that would be epic to watch

[@jarvisjones9529]

I can always appreciate real historical storytelling. And it only goes to show how black Americans in this country are the foundation and the Very fiber of it there's so many stories like this of so many great black Americans that just hasn't been told.

[@je-freenorman7787]

Can you? US History is all a LIE. You live in a Satanic Cult and dont know. Its all Roman

[@memosiuuuuuu8808]

@@je-freenorman7787 bruh I can already tell you a republican

[@cornellfinney2855]

💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯 more truth is coming out each day, blessing to our people stay safe, remember fear the most High and keep his commandments.

[@55jemmz5]

Lmao. “Black Americans in this country are the foundation” after watching a basketball documentary. yeah man black people were the only people that had to do with the founding of this country. Great historical analysis. Very smart guy.

[@xijinping3317]

@@memosiuuuuuu8808 how is he republican and hates US history Read book bro

[@michael18044]

Wow! Great video! I'm from Cleveland, MS. I remember being caught up in the excitement of having a national championship team in our small town. As a teenager I watched most of their games and became a dedicated fan. So proud of what they were able to accomplish. Truly a trail blazing and history making "TEAM" led by the incredible "Lusia Harris" and Coached by the now legendary "Margaret Wade". Thanks for the memories 🙂👏

[@rayzrealm]

*Legendary Story. Year after year, I wonder why there hasn’t been a movie made about her.*

[@JamesBrown-bf7uy]

Bcuz she’s black

[@solodolo7414]

@@JamesBrown-bf7uy ding ding ding

[@carnagerulez312]

@@JamesBrown-bf7uy no its because she's not hot

[@desecration171]

@@JamesBrown-bf7uy It's because she's a woman, not because she's black. They made a movie about a black scuba diver FFS. Their story has to be interesting as well as profitable. Fact of the matter is many women stories don't do so well outside comics and action films. They have 1000 other white women from her era they could also write a story about but yet you haven't seen any. The last great "women in sports" move that was made was "A League Of Their Own" which came out in 92. You can toss in Million Dollar Baby 2004 if you want but it's a fictional character. Anyone can start a crowd funder to make a longer form documentary about her story and maybe with the wind in the sails get a small budget movie about her before she passes.

[@davidgmaccabees9804]

Absolutely 💯‼️

[@RootedWings]

Her giggle is infectious. Loved her little run on the court ☺ I thoroughly enjoyed this film. Thank you Ben! #45

[@mushmouf1400]

right! said same she had the most feminine run. so cute

[@bayborn510]

Same! And ditto!

[@DOLfirst]

The way she clenched her fists and leaped after she scored...delightful

[@noonespecial4171]

Would this be said about a man? NO.

[@DOLfirst]

@@noonespecial4171 not many men giggle but I find it endearing when they do... so, yeah

[@starrchld7]

Lusia Harris was a household name when i was a kid growing up in the 1970's. She was part of the HBCU/small college circuit. And it was believed that she was unstoppable in the paint. Plus she had a nice midrange jumper as well. Much props to Lusia for being the trailblazer she is...

[@cornerboyswag6479]

Would you shut

[@themansince]

She didn't attend an HBCU. Delta State is not an HBCU!

[@starrchld7]

@@cornerboyswag6479 ???

[@gheewhiz]

lmao wait wuh? 😂

[@cornellfinney2855]

@@themansince She stated her wish was to attend Alcorn State she could'nt cause they did'nt have women basketball team.

[@troydogg2716]

The WNBA should make her as the Logo ..She paved the way for so many women

[@aDDmoreJuiceTV]

WOW! Click on this by accident, and I am so glad I did. Ben Proudfoot, this is an Emmy award production. In 22 minutes, you did a magnificent job telling Lusia “Lucy” Harris's inspiring story. You apply skill, care, and diligence in telling her story, which shines through the documentary. Clearly, there is more inspiring story to tell of Ms. Harris's life, especially her early childhood. Lusia “Lucy” Harris is simply AMAZING.

[@galaxygirl7122]

When she said "cause I'm LUCY" I instantly smiled😃. She's such a sweetie🤗🤗

[@davidmusoke]

The pain hidden in her eyes, even when she smiles ....(just hurts too much!)

[@areguapiri]

What pain?

[@ugoshow1]

She seems sweet and happy to me

[@chris39832]

Don’t see pain. I see resilience.

[@dstarkspp]

What video are you watching?

[@davidmusoke]

@@areguapiri Then you must not be an empath.

[@seoulglo1999]

I'm saddened to hear of Lusia's passing this morning. I watched this a couple months ago in awe and wanted to return to send my condolences to Lusia's family, friends, and those who worked with her on this film. Rest in peace.

[@womenrule7869]

40 points in a game and more than entire team by one person. That person is a legend.

[@kyokitty16]

And that's without a 3pt line right? I don't think they had them.

[@maddcapper4548]

@@kyokitty16 ..yeah, you're right

[@AhseemCarter]

@@maddcapper4548 wilt averaged 50 ppg in a season without the 3 pt line

[@laurabowles]

This made me cry. What an incredible woman, paving the way for so many.

[@donnarupert4926]

Me too Laura!! I’m 62 years old. I wanted to be a Paramedic after the TV 📺 Show “Emergency” came out. They told me, “You can’t be a Paramedic, you’re a girl.” So I became one anyway. Started in EMS in 1982 as a basic EMT, then EMT-I, then I graduated from Paramedic School in 1989, and became the best Paramedic they ever saw🙋🏽‍♀️💕🚑

[@laurabowles]

@@donnarupert4926 Good for you!! Smash that glass ceiling 💪🏼

[@luhole]

Me too! Was not expecting to be that moved.

[@bznupe87]

Made me cry too. I can only imagine the pent up emotion and hardships she experienced and overcame to do what she loved doing.

[@GeneSquires]

Really brought tears to my eyes on multiple parts. I was not expecting this at all

[@tauruswhitehead259]

Minter City, Mississippi 38944.....She's from my hometown. She isn't honored how she should be. She taught at my high school as well. She was extremely humble and most students and faculty knew not of her accomplishments. The city should have honored her more. Loved the documentary. I also know some of her children. My family knows her family.

[@ichoosemysanity6467]

A lot of greatness came from small towns!

[@Candy-cc1bc]

That’s great! Maybe you could get a movement going in your hometown.

[@sonnyhuynh7052]

Wait, I clearly heard her said born in a small town in south Mississippi, Minter is north Mississippi.

[@lynettecotton3222]

@@sonnyhuynh7052 she's from Minter City. How do I know? She is my grandmother's first cousin.

[@alittlesickducksucks]

@@sonnyhuynh7052 I definitely heard South Mississippi too, but we all know where the Delta is

[@alphafemme8154]

This woman is adorable! I love her achievements and her cute little giggle, I love her story ✨💜✨

[@soundsbyeye]

THAT MOMENT WHEN THE INSPIRATIONAL TEARS HIT. this was something special

[@je-freenorman7787]

Its a scam. Not her story, Pro Sports are a scam

[@je-freenorman7787]

USA is a Satanic Cult and its all Roman. You live a lie, sorry. Covid is a scam also

[@shayrob6053]

Yes it was! Absolutely AMAZING!

[@je-freenorman7787]

@@shayrob6053 Are you coming? or going?

[@donnarichardson5834]

Even though I had never heard of Lucy before, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing and seeing her tell her story.

[@lyncast9191]

She has a good spirit a person you can speak to have a learning experience. May God continue to bless her.

[@t.ferguson]

This is a shining example of how to tell an amazing story in short-form. Wow, what a story about this groundbreaking woman I've never heard of. This story really needed a full hour, but y'all managed to geniusly edit it down into a concise, heartfelt, and poignant short documentary. The Oscar was well-deserved!

[@itssanti]

Take away: Humble people can be amazing story tellers. It was very touching to hear her teammates talk about her the way they did.

[@lizziepols4057]

I love her giggles and smiles so much when she’s talking about her accomplishments. ❤️

[@DSilk90]

Ikr makes me so happy yo know she achieved that!!!! Wowwww the times !!! I learned something today!!!!!

[@cordarrocurtis4817]

It shows her humility and how she doesn't feel herself as a superstar or even a celeb she feels she's jus Lucia which makes her even more awesome

[@deeblue984]

She SHOULD.....be proud. Even playing ball at all during that period of time in America was an accomplishment

[@lizziepols4057]

@@deeblue984 Absolutely.

[@lukata77]

Just found this story on my timeline and it made me smile, Lucy is such a pleasant and down to earth woman, her story should be more known, she truly is a pioneer and a legend. The part about the nuns was funny, those nuns in the crowd were intense...lol. Lucy if you see this comment you are Strong, Tall and an Inspiration to All, thank you for your contribution to American Sports!!!!

[@bosslady1188]

I just found it a few hours ago. Amazing 👏.

[@taramoonshadow363]

AMEN!

[@Chuxx1000]

💯

[@pearlhanson3590]

Lucy I am so inspired by your legacy and relatable story. Your story reminds me - helps me to appreciate even more, the years 75 - 78 former women's college basketball player "Shirl The Pearl" from Rhode Island who played for Delaware State College in "75" [now university] and University of Maryland Easternshore College in "76 - 78" [Now University]. She and you had a similar journey. She is now being inducted in her High school Hall of Fame at the age of 65. After many years of contributing to her love of basketball 🏀 and the love of people. She is finally getting the well deserved acknowledgement. Because of you I have one more sister to adopt into my personal scrapbook of women's basketball memoir. Thank you for your awesome contributions and raising of your lovely family 👪🏾.

[@bosslady1188]

Amen 🙏

[@jackmartin8124]

It's a shame I only learned about this wonderful woman in death. Her laugh and the way she talks about her achievements are amazing! May this beautiful woman rest in peace

[@robertgray320]

From a guy who has played basketball his whole life, I think I speak for all basketball players when I say, "She had to be a beast for the NBA to draft her to play amongst men!"

[@richiebee1984]

SHE PROBABLY WOULD HAVE BEEN GREAT IN THE NBA BUT BACK THEN IN THE LATE ROUNDS OF THE NBA DRAFT NBA TEAMS WOULD DRAFT ANYONE LEFT REMEMBER TRACK STAR CARL LEWIS WAS DRAFTED AND JORGE GONZALES AKA EL GIGANTE IN WCW AND GIANT GONZALES IN WWE WAS DRAFTED 65TH OVERALL BY THE ORLANDO MAGIC IN 1990!!

[@Hkemp81]

She's an awesome female basketball player! From the highlights it looks like she played power forward or center. But at 6'3 what position was she going to play in the NBA?

[@highervibrationalstate9835]

@@richiebee1984 Right as she said she thought it was a publicity stunt, they invited her to try out. Nothing was set in stone for her to make it, Ann Myers tried out a few times and didn't make it. The NBA was trying to seem fair, they wasn't really going to let a woman make a team. It's 2022 and still there's no women playing in the NBA.

[@thenationalradar8355]

The ending is great. Just a quiet time at her home watching her granddaughter put the ball in the hoop just like her. I think that’s the life goal pretty much everyone wants.

[@phillychris_]

Felt that.

[@thenationalradar8355]

@@phillychris_ Me too man

[@Abymilde]

I nearly cried towards the end. What a beautiful, inspirational woman. The production, editing, music of this documentary was extremely well done!

[@damepipe3667]

It's ok.. I cried too🤷🏾🤣🤣🤣🏌️

[@trustissues8891]

Shes amazing, her humbleness & humility is unsurpassed 💗

[@princesibanda9594]

Eye opening. She's a class act.

[@gashouse4672]

Hi We got some best strains of medical marijuana and moonrocks available for sale for BOTH SMOKERS AND PATIENTS with Depression, anxiety, chronic pain etc. CBD OILS FOR CANCER PATIENTS .etc Subscribe to my channel and get on with me 🇱🇷💨

[@zackarybates4065]

This is one of the Greatest stories never heard of until now. Bruh she scored the first points in Olympic Women's basketball History!!! Give them woman her flowers!!!

[@Q5TV]

So glad I watched this. What a beautiful story/life. Amazing woman. Black Women Are Undefeated.

[@eralperry3936]

RESPECT TO ALL OF THE BEAUTIFUL BLACK QUEEN 👑👑 OUT THERE 💯💯

[@mitzithompson6585]

👏🏾👍🏾✊🏾🏀

[@gracioussinoya2850]

Yes indeed black women are undefeated ,what a beautiful story of lucy👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@gwene.4726]

Undefeated indeed 💕

[@lobo667-z1e]

This was so beautiful. How come we have not heard more about this amazing woman? This made me laugh and cry. Just an amazing woman. More people need to know about Lusia Harris. Incredible woman, athlete and mom. Amazing 👏 Bravo 👏!!!!

[@womenrule7869]

The coach's pin is one of the best pins ever that is a great motto.

[@libraalibaba]

She said "They can already play. I just need to bring them together." 👍🏾💪🏾 powerful

[@rashadreaz_18]

Why isn't there any award or special game night in her honor in the WNBA?

[@womenrule7869]

Yeah why? 🤔

[@vivelajonny]

Because everything sucks about the WNBA

[@danawells355]

Right the WNBA should highlight their heros. Where are the endorsements now?

[@rashadreaz_18]

@@danawells355 coz she isn't in "Her Prime" that's the logic they're gonna give you

[@Julia-lk8jn]

... similar reason that Harriet Tubman still isn't on the 20 Dollar bill? I really hope that'll change quickly. Andrew Jackson had his fun, and right now US bills reflect a history that seems to consist 100% out of male Europeans. Sorry, Euro-Americans would be the technical term, though strangely enough: those are the only people who aren't an ethnicity, they're simply Americans.

[@YuYue8886]

This documentary film won best documentary short subject at the 94th Academy Awards! Good job!

[@sanzrich9887]

Her mother looks like she ain't take no mess. She's probably the one that helped inspire the courage in her. I'm so proud of her.

[@mt7able]

She has such a comforting, sweet laugh. God bless her.

[@jadedrealist]

Can you imagine an alternate timeline where she did try out? Amazing. She is an inspiration.

[@ArtByRizzo]

Twitter led me here. I’m in tears! This is beautiful. Thank you for sharing her story & giving her her flowers while she was here!

[@kevvinbb10494]

What an amazing story! Her giggle and innocence resonated with me!

[@keladry12]

Lusia is so smart and sharp, but so warm at the same time! She seems like she's one of those people who makes EVERYTHING fun.

[@williamsparrow9527]

I couldn’t stop smiling. She is amazing! What a soul!!

[@stephaniecollins9202]

me too!!!

[@dedemunson4988]

Well said!

[@maderianjohnson7856]

I agree! 😃

[@NaKeisha_G]

I couldn’t stop smiling & crying. She was awesome!💜💫✨

[@lisaswinson2102]

I agree. I’m still smiling.

[@000001willy]

Lusia has the most beautiful smile and a self-depreciating sense of humor. It says everything you need to know about this champion and fine human being. Thank to Stephen Curry and Shaquil O'Neal and other producers for financing this short documentary film. It definitely deserved to win.

[@ofgraham]

This made me cry! Lucy's story is so incredibly inspiring and I'm so glad I know her name now!

[@24gmj2010]

Me too, and I'm a man!

[@siccboysicc]

Uncontrollable tears.

[@jimdur5982]

Me too

[@Brotherman7]

I was emotionally affected by this. Misty turned to running tears, She has such a beautiful family.

[@MyPronounsISwhom]

The sweetest thing I've ever heard, she is infectious and I'm drawn to every word. What a lovely woman. Good bless her

[@marcusrobinson7964]

This piece was beautiful. Thank you for it Ben. RIP Queen Lucy!!!

[@brookestevenson7645]

And she’s in the Hall! I’m glad she got her flowers from the sport she loved, regardless of whether or not the collective we knew who she was. As a former player as a child, I would have loved to have known about her.

[@paul2raw422]

I’m not going to lie this would be a great movie

[@tee415y510]

Agreed 👍🏾

[@masskilla469]

I loved her little laugh and the WBA should make a award in her Name!!

[@rockvilleraven]

Or perhaps the NBA, for the Female employee of the year.

[@OwenPenner]

@@rockvilleraven Way better idea.

[@carmens3685]

Look at her children, her peace, and her joy. There are a lot ... count 'em ... a LOT of NBA players and famous people that don't have what she does. She's successful in the most true sense of the word.

[@misscommentarycleveland7142]

This is such a wonder to discover today. Everyone has their place in this world it is magnificient when it shows greatness. All praises to the most high.

[@pana6572]

Amen 🙌🙏 Loved the story

[@davidspivey4526]

She is such a beautiful spirit!❤️❤️

[@judahmourns2995]

APTTMH 🔥🙌🏾

[@pana6572]

@@judahmourns2995 Amen to that 😊

[@marissasboardwalk]

Incredible!!! What an inspiring woman. The world should know her name as well as we know Michael Jordan. I’m so grateful to have watched this video! Thank you New York Times for sharing her story!

[@womenrule7869]

Yep

[@sharinganeye9755]

@Marissa Santa Cruz Except Michael Jordan has contributed more to basketball than she could in a hundred lifetimes.

[@sharinganeye9755]

@Women Rule Nope.

[@womenrule7869]

@@sharinganeye9755 how is that a nope

[@sharinganeye9755]

@@womenrule7869 Seriously? Do I have to explain to you why this woman is not recognized as much as Michael Jordan, who is arguably the best basketball player ever, as well as the greatest sports figure of the 20th century.

[@allencraig02]

What an amazingly well written, shot, edited and directed film. Really. And Ms. Harris is the perfect subject: humble, smart, super talented and just sweet as pie. Sure, an inspiring athlete, but at least as much, an inspiring person who really lived a wonderful, full life well.

[@palerz_]

I love her personality! She seems so loving, caring and happy!

[@MissMas777]

This needs to be made into a life story film. thank you so much BEN!

[@brq99]

Wait, why am i crying!!

[@mmlvx]

Partly it's because of the music, too.

[@quinntara20]

I don't know!! I am too .she's just such a champ! Modest , funny , warm human being. Wish I knew her sooner

[@realSimoneCherie]

Same

[@berketleulkal6673]

It's just the onion in te kitchen

[@DJRenee]

Whole time. ... snotting and crying.

[@Freedom17762]

What a beautiful story, and even a more beautiful person. Rest in peace Lusia, you left us to soon. This needs to be a Hollywood movie.

[@cedricraywilliams]

Child: "Momma I didn't know you were a star!" I would have been like, "Where do you think you got it from??" 😅 Great story. ❤

[@ntatemohlomi2884]

14:40 " There are different forms of mental illness..." That's when her story morphed into my story also. A great great human story.

[@jadeanis3794]

...... And mine too, so proud of her honesty

[@curiosityredpill7030]

I’m happy for this piece of history Ms Lucy you should be even more recognized ❤️🏀😁#45

[@daveDickinson5983]

Such a great and inspiring story.. And I love how genuine and humble she is.

[@scottfree2823]

I'm so proud of this woman..I cried like a baby watching this..God bless her

[@mrkurleygunna]

Same bro I was crying something serious. It's crazy we didn't grow up hearing about her or any books on Mrs. Harris.

[@MrTwenty20video]

I cried too.

[@MrHeat1up]

This is the most satisfying happiest story I have ever heard.

[@guthabanglasdash8641]

I should have known it had to be somebody from Mississippi

[@ikegreen3034]

This REAL STAR belongs in the Naismith Hall of Fame.

[@key-tg1ih]

CONGRATS LUCY, YOU'RE AN OSCAR WINNER

[@rose4mvp2012]

Out of all my years of following basketball why have I never heard of her until now? I love stumbling across videos like this.

[@smallknuckles5708]

How do you not know her?

[@rose4mvp2012]

@@smallknuckles5708 It’s possible to not know things. Let’s make that cool lol. I was an NBA fan first so excuse me for not knowing and the league has done a great job at promoting her and giving her the flowers she deserves.

[@haroldnicolas4740]

​@@smallknuckles5708 Because we only hear about Jordan, Bryant and James since fourty years ? Because men jump on the brakes each time a women is under the spotlights ?

[@mrkurleygunna]

Same here!

[@RexStewartoriginals]

I concur, being a former athlete...People don't realize that media didn't cover women sports as openly in the early 1970s. This was a 'dark' area then until President Nixon passed a bill to integrate women sports. I'm delighted that we have this beautiful video -and raise my glass to @Ben Proudfoot and crew for acknowledging a fore-running legend of the sport.

[@thenationalradar8355]

I love to hear the joy in her voice when she talks about her career.

[@kishiashooks4923]

If I could like this 1 million times I would. I love her so much!! This was fantastic!

[@gametrashstuff2312]

One of the greatest players in a generation. I can't believe I didn't know about this before.

[@desireeellisford3539]

I went into tears when she was hoisted on her teammates shoulder. I felt joyous and proud; as if it was me💚