99% Invisible Six-on-Six Basketball
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Jan 31, 2023 
Ellie Gordon Marshall, a producer and former athlete, shares heartfelt anecdotes about her mother's journey in six-on-six basketball, a unique Iowa tradition. Discover the vibrant stories of female athletes who became local legends, the evolution from six-on-six to five-on-five play, and the impact of federal laws like Title IX on women's sports. Marshall reflects on community support and the cultural significance of this variant game, highlighting its legacy in shaping female athletes' empowerment and enriching local communities.
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Popularity of Six-on-Six
- Despite the seemingly restrictive rules, six-on-six basketball was immensely popular in Iowa, drawing large crowds and enthusiastic support.
- Ellie initially dismissed the sport due to its perceived sexism and unusual rules.
Development of Women's Basketball
- Women's basketball developed alongside men's, with Senda Berenson shaping the game to be acceptable for women.
- While other states limited girls' competition, Iowa embraced it, leading to the sport's flourishing.
Iowa's Resistance
- Iowa's small towns fiercely protected girls' basketball, rejecting attempts to end it.
- This led to the creation of the first girls' athletic union in the country.
