Overcoming Adversity: Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel Makes History in Women’s Basketball
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (AP) — Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel’s journey to the basketball court has been anything but ordinary. After being cut from her high school basketball team in her senior year, she was determined not to let rejection—or the fact that she was born with one arm—stop her from pursuing her passion for the game she had loved since childhood, inspired by her idol, LeBron James.
At just 22 years old and currently a guard at Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Sinaman-Daniel made history by becoming the first NCAA Division III woman with one arm to score in a collegiate game, according to her coach, Martin Rather.
A Historic Moment on the Court
Reflecting on her groundbreaking basket, which came from just beyond the three-point line, Sinaman-Daniel said, “I shot the ball expecting to have to retrieve it for a rebound. So when it actually went in, I was more surprised than anything.” Her coach quickly recognized the significance of the moment and called a timeout to celebrate with her.
“My first thought was, ‘This is history, and we need to take a moment to appreciate it,’” Rather shared. In a heartwarming scene, her teammates surrounded her with high fives and cheers, marking a pivotal milestone.
From Rejection to Determination
Sinaman-Daniel’s path to achievement was paved by her determination following a tough rejection from Mountain View High School. “I had played for three years, but during my senior tryouts, I was cut and told I wasn’t needed,” she expressed, noting the sadness that followed.
After two emotionally challenging days, sitting in her car, she resolved, “What’s stopping me from playing in college?” Taking action, she reached out to numerous coaches across divisions, seeking any opportunity to continue her basketball journey.
Persistence Pays Off
Her unwavering persistence caught the attention of Rather when she entered the transfer portal after two years at Warren Wilson College in North Carolina. At Lesley, Sinaman-Daniel has made a name for herself as a dedicated player.
With more individual practice sessions than any other teammate, she has contributed to the Lynx achieving their best season in fourteen years and reaching the playoffs, according to Rather, who believes that any team would benefit from having her heart and determination.
Breaking Barriers in Collegiate Basketball
Sinaman-Daniel is part of an elite group of collegiate players with one arm. “It’s uncommon to see someone like me in basketball—perhaps two or three of us on the collegiate level,” she noted.
While there are a few notable one-armed players, like Hansel Emmanuel at Austin Peay, Sinaman-Daniel’s journey stands out as she continues to break barriers. Her unique training methods, tailored to her physical abilities, have allowed her to develop the fundamental skills needed to succeed on the court.
Inspiration Beyond the Basketball Court
Celebrating another milestone, Sinaman-Daniel scored her second basket on her birthday, just a few weeks after her first accomplishment, adding more joy to her remarkable season. Currently studying psychology at Lesley University, she hopes her story resonates with others facing obstacles.
“I want people to see me as Baileigh, the basketball player, and as someone who is capable of doing anything everyone else can,” she said.
Rather believes her influence extends beyond athletics. “We are demonstrating that we can win while featuring talented players who may not fit the traditional mold,” he stated, emphasizing the positive impact of her presence on and off the court.
