Cal head coach Charmin Smith envisioned a tournament four years ago aimed at empowering Black female head coaches. To bring this idea to fruition, she established the Raising the B.A.R. (basketball, activism, representation) Invitational. This tournament features four teams and takes place in California, showcasing teams led by Black women coaches.
“In our sport, it’s a significant concern that only 17% of head coaches are women of color,” Smith remarked during a recent phone interview. “This tournament amplifies the narratives and challenges faced by individuals involved in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging movement, while also spotlighting the lack of diversity within women’s college basketball coaching.”
Ranked No. 24, Cal is set to compete against Fordham, while Temple will take on Xavier in the other matchup. The winners and losers from these games will clash again on Sunday. Additionally, a panel discussion featuring all four head coaches was held on Friday night, fostering dialogue on the importance of representation in coaching.
Smith shared that her journey into activism began nearly two decades ago when she learned an essential lesson from her mentor, former Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer, during her time as an assistant coach. Frustrated by the apparent indifference towards the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Smith was challenged by VanDerveer to take action. In response, Smith initiated a fundraising effort, generating over $18,000 for Habitat for Humanity that season via donor pledges based on assists.
This year, the tournament introduces a fundraising aspect that benefits charities selected by each participating school. California is fundraising for People’s Programs; Fordham is supporting Part of the Solution; Temple has chosen the Philadelphia Youth Sports Collaborative; and Xavier is contributing to Cincinnati Stepping Stones.
Fordham coach Bridgette Mitchell expressed her pride at being part of this tournament. “This is really exciting,” she noted during a phone interview. “Representation is so crucial. Young girls see my players as role models, and my players see me in that light. It’s unique to celebrate what Charmin is achieving here.”
Initially uncertain about participating due to scheduling conflicts with final exams, Mitchell was able to secure arrangements for some of her players to complete their tests early, with help from their professors. She also expressed enthusiasm about the charitable initiatives, as her players engage in volunteer work at least once a month within the community.
“Our collaboration with POTS (Part of the Solution) resonates deeply,” she explained. “Given that we’re located in the Bronx, one of the most economically challenged boroughs, POTS acts as a homeless shelter providing meals and essential services.”
Smith mentioned that this will be the final year the tournament is held just before the Christmas holiday. Plans are in place to relocate the event to Santa Cruz next year, celebrating the G-League facility there and aiming for a time slot in the first or second week of the basketball season.