Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel, a 22-year-old guard for Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has etched her name in NCAA history, becoming the first Division III women’s basketball player with one arm to score in a collegiate game, The Associated Press reports.
The momentous occasion, confirmed by her coach Martin Rather, was immediately celebrated with a timeout to recognize Sinaman-Daniel’s groundbreaking achievement.
Sinaman-Daniel’s journey to the basketball court is one of unwavering determination and resilience. Born with a tiny right arm that she is unable to use, the Stafford, Virginia, native was inspired by basketball legend LeBron James to pursue her passion for the game. However, her path wasn’t without its obstacles. A painful rejection from her high school basketball team during her senior year threatened to derail her dreams.
After two years at Warren Wilson College in North Carolina, Sinaman-Daniel entered the transfer portal, and Coach Rather saw the potential in the 5-foot-6-inch guard.
Since arriving at Lesley University, Sinaman-Daniel has become known for her exceptional work ethic. Her dedication has contributed to the Lynx’s best season in 14 years, securing them a spot in the playoffs.
Her achievement is made even more remarkable by the lack of readily available role models in collegiate basketball for one-armed players. While there are few notable examples, Hansel Emmanuel at Austin Peay stands out. The 6-foot-6 Division I junior, whose arm was amputated at age 6, is described by his coach as “the biggest inspiration in college sports,” proving that limitations don’t define potential.
Sinaman-Daniel’s unique physical circumstances necessitated innovative training methods, allowing her to develop fundamental basketball skills and overcome the challenges of balance and ball management typically mastered by two-armed players.
Adding to the sweetness of her breakthrough season, Sinaman-Daniel scored her second basket on her birthday, approximately seven weeks after her initial historic score.
Currently a junior studying psychology at Lesley University, just outside Boston, Sinaman-Daniel hopes her success story will inspire others facing similar challenges.
