Created by Deena Dufour, graphic designer for Chautauqua-Wawasee.

By Mary Hursh
Guest Columnist

Shanna Zolman, a superstar during her storied basketball career here at Wawasee High School, will bring that bright star glow back to Wawasee High School for two presentations sponsored by Chautauqua-Wawasee on Tuesday, May 7. She will speak at an assembly for students in the morning emphasizing having a Warrior mentality in life and again at 7 p.m. in the school gym. The evening event is free and open to the public.

Shanna Zolman-Mahaley

Zolman-Mahaley graduated from Wawasee in 2002 finishing her four years as an All-American, the Indiana Miss Basketball winner, co-MVP of the McDonalds All American Game, and, at that time, the state’s all-time leading scorer for girls with 3,085 career points. She went on to star at the University of Tennessee where she ranks ninth in career scoring and the WNBA with the San Antonio Silver Stars and Tulsa Shock where she averaged 7.0 points and shot 41 percent from the 3-point line.

“Miss Basketball” was the one award I set a goal to achieve because there is no greater accomplishment in my mind for a kid growing up in Indiana than winning that title.”

Growing Up In Syracuse

“As long as I can remember, my dad Kem was a coach, so I grew up in the gym. I loved it and loved being with him and my brother at his practice. Dad was always there to go with me and rebound, coach, correct, and train. The green arm band I wore was a way for me to carry my family with me along my basketball journey. I wore that armband until the elastic completely wore out. I had to hide it under another wristband throughout my entire career into the pros.”

In her years of playing for Wawasee, Zolman-Mahaley brought recognition to girls basketball and girls sports and set the example that even a small kid from a small town could do big things. “I have always wanted to excel at everything I try. I strive to always do my best at whatever I put my mind to. I am working for Someone greater than just worldly success or expectations.”

Her historic career at Wawasee was made memorable by the community and fan support. “Even coach Pat Summitt at Tennessee said in all of her years of coaching, that she never saw anyone have the kind of high school experience that I did,” said Zolman-Mahaley. “I consider that a gift.”

Playing With Pat Summit And WNBA And injuries

Zolman-Mahaley left Wawasee for Tennessee and legendary coach Pat Summitt. “Coach reminded me of my dad on a much larger scale. Pat’s influence on me far supersedes the basketball court. Her dozen leadership principles and the way she lived out her life were no nonsense yet real. She was the most disciplined perfectionist. The way she handled hardships in work, life, and marriage helped me through the toughest years of my life.”

Throughout her life and her basketball career, God has been a major influence. “All glory belongs to God. He has given me everything. Faith is the common thread that runs through family, athletics, and faith for me. That is where I start from. That is what motivates me and enables me to love and forgive, to endure and work harder than I thought I could.”

Injuries And The End Of Her Basketball Career

Because of three knee and shoulder surgeries, Zolman-Mahaley’s playing career ended. She moved to Seattle and held several positions over seven years with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is now a contracted speaker for the Pat Summitt Leadership Group teaching her “Definite Dozen Leadership Principles.”

Zolman-Mahaley and her husband Antwan, sons Zolman and Creed live in the Seattle area.

“I want people to remember how I made them feel. I want to be known for the stand I took on what I believe and how I lived my life. I want to represent humble excellence in everything I do.”