HOUSTON, TX – The Harris County – Houston Sports Authority is thrilled to announce that Houston Comets legend Cynthia Cooper will be inducted into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame as part of the star-studded 2024 class.

Cooper’s outstanding contributions to sport and her significant impact on the Houston community make her a perfect addition to an already impressive group of amazing athletes and coaches. 

“I am so honored and overjoyed. I have been waiting for this moment forever,” said Cynthia Cooper, 2024 Hall of Famer. “I am so excited to be a part of the Houston Sports Hall of Fame. There is a long list of talented individuals, and now I get to join them; I’m thrilled.” 

Born in Chicago, Cooper began playing basketball at 16 and quickly found her love for the sport. In 1983, she enrolled at the University of Southern California, leading the team to NCAA appearances in all four years, and Final Four appearances in three of those seasons. 

In 1997, after nearly 10 years playing overseas for several clubs, Cooper signed on to play in the WNBA with the Houston Comets. Over the following years, Cooper’s leadership and skillset helped the team secure four consecutive WNBA championships. She was named WNBA MVP in 1997 and 1998 and earned MVP honors during each of the Comet’s four WNBA Finals appearances.   

“Cynthia Cooper’s induction into the Houston Sports Hall of Fame is a no-brainer and testament to her extraordinary talent and unwavering commitment to the game,” said Daniel Gotera, Harris County – Houston Sports Authority Senior Director of Communications. “Anyone who has grown up in Houston remembers those incredible Comets championship runs as Cooper inspired so many with both her play and personality. We are thrilled to have her join an elite group of athletes in the Houston Sports Hall of Fame.”  

Beyond her success in the WNBA, Cooper’s basketball career is adorned with numerous accolades. She is a two-time Olympic medalist, a 2009 Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer, and in 2010 was the first WNBA player to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Cooper will be honored at the 2024 Houston Sports Awards alongside two additional 2024 Houston Hall of Fame inductees who will be announced later.