This year, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) celebrates a significant milestone: the 50th season of its women’s basketball program.
To commemorate this golden anniversary, a series of events will be held throughout the 2023-24 season, culminating in a grand celebration and reunion during the team’s February 3 matchup against Furman at McKenzie Arena.
The Lady Mocs–also known as the Mocettes and Lady Mocs in previous seasons–have a rich history of success, including three NCAA Tournament appearances and two Southern Conference Player of the Year awards.
The program was founded in 1972, the same year that Title IX was passed. Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. This law paved the way for the growth of women’s sports, including basketball.
One of the most notable players in UTC women’s basketball history is Alexandria Comet (Alex) Anderson. Anderson, from Stone Mountain, Ga., was drafted in the third round as the 39th overall pick by the San Antonio Silver Stars in the 2008 WNBA Draft. She was the first UTC player to be drafted by the WNBA and the first Southern Conference player to be drafted by the league.
Anderson was a two-time Southern Conference Player of the Year and led the Lady Mocs to three NCAA Tournament appearances. She is a member of the UTC Athletics Hall of Fame.
At press time, the UTC women’s basketball program is ranked No. 15 in the country.