2012 Inspiring Women National Luncheon

September 10, 2012 -- The women of Team USA -- fresh from the Olympic Games in London where they earned 58 of the 104 medals by the United States -- received the WNBA Inspiration Award for 2012. The USA Basketball Women’s National Team, the most decorated women's team in U.S. Olympic history, is also received special recognition, WNBA President Laurel J. Richie announced.

Each year, the WNBA Inspiring Women national luncheon celebrates individuals who show the world what is possible. As Title IX turns 40 and as American women made headlines at this summer’s Olympic Games, a host of female Olympians from multiple sports were in attendance to receive their acknowledgement including Betsey Armstrong (Water Polo), Danielle Scott-Arruda (Indoor Volleyball), Kayla Harrison (Judo), Taylor Ritzel (Rowing), and Lauren Tamayo (Cycling). Reigning WNBA MVP Tamika Catchings represented the USA Basketball Women’s National Team in accepting a special recognition for receiving their fifth straight gold medal.

The luncheon celebrated Team USA women and others who have blazed new paths on the court, in the boardroom, and in the community at Chelsea Piers in New York City on Sept. 10, 2012. More than 300 people from the worlds of entertainment, sports, business, and politics attended.

“It truly was the summer for female athletes as they dominated the global stage with their efforts being seen and cheered by millions of people worldwide,” said WNBA President Laurel J. Richie. “We are proud of all their accomplishments and it brings the league great joy to present the WNBA Inspiration Award to these extraordinary women.”

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