Lusia Harris
Basketball Star
From the Series Difference Makers
In 1977, Lusia Harris made history as the first and only woman ever drafted by an NBA team, the New Orleans Jazz.
Though she chose not to play for the NBA, her incredible accomplishments on the basketball court cemented her legacy as one of the greatest players in women’s basketball history.
Lusia’s journey to greatness began in high school and continued at Delta State University, where she led her team to multiple national championships. She also represented the USA in the 1976 Summer Olympics, winning a silver medal, and later returned to her high school as a basketball coach, inspiring the next generation of athletes. A 2022 Academy Award-winning documentary about her life highlights Lusia’s groundbreaking achievements and her lasting influence on the sport. Her story demonstrates that with talent, hard work, and determination, women can break barriers and reach new heights in any field. “Lusia Harris: The Queen of Basketball” is a celebration of her trailblazing career and a powerful reminder to dream big, work hard, and create lasting impact.
| Format | Your Price | Add |
|---|---|---|
|
979-8-89605-001-8
|
$22.99 | |
|
978-1-959223-65-8
|
$10.99 |
| Interest Level | Grade 3 - Grade 5 |
|---|---|
| Reading Level | Grade 4 |
| Genre | Social Studies |
| Category | 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Narrative Nonfiction, Biography, Diverse Books: Feminism, Diverse Books: Race & Ethnicity, Diversity, SEL: B Self-Management, Social Emotional Learning |
| Copyright | 2025 |
| Publisher | Planting People Growing Justice Press |
| Imprint | Planting People Growing Justice Press |
| Language | English |
| Number of Pages | 32 |
| Publication Date | 2025-08-01 |
Author: Nancy Loewen
Nancy Loewen is an award-winning author who has written more than 130 titles for children. She holds an MFA in creative writing and lives in the Twin Cities.
Illustrator: Chasity Hampton
Chasity Hampton has been a professional illustrator for a decade. Starting Whimsical Designs by CJ, LLC, she aspired to craft art that reconnects people with their inner child. Hampton endeavors to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia through her art.
Lerner eSource™ offers free digital teaching and learning resources, including Common Core State Standards (CCSS) teaching guides. These guides, created by classroom teachers, offer short lessons and writing exercises that give students specific instruction and practice using Common Core skills and strategies. Lerner eSource also provides additional resources including online activities, downloadable/printable graphic organizers, and additional educational materials that would also support Common Core instruction. Download, share, pin, print, and save as many of these free resources as you like!
Difference Makers
In this captivating series, young readers are introduced to a diverse array of inspiring leaders who have made a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Each book in the series features a different trailblazer, showcasing their unique journey,… View available downloads →
Reviews
School Library Journal, Series Made Simple
“Accomplished trailblazers receive long-overdue recognition in this inspiring and informative series. . . . A powerful series that celebrates resilience, representation, and lasting change.”—School Library Journal
