At the table with Coach Sydney Carter

In a recent episode of "Brick by Brick," a podcast by The Brownstone Experience, I sat down with Sydney Carter, a former professional basketball player turned coach and fashion icon. The interview provides insights into Carter's multifaceted career and her journey in breaking stereotypes in women's basketball.
Sydney Carter, now a Player Development Coach at her alma mater, shares her experiences transitioning from playing professionally to coaching. Her role extends beyond on-court activities, encompassing player development both on and off the court. Carter emphasizes the importance of preparing athletes for the real world, including community service and life skills development.
Carter addresses common misconceptions about women's basketball players:
The stereotype that all female basketball players look or dress a certain way. The notion that women athletes are "just athletes" and can't pursue other interests. The misconception that the women's game is not as exciting or skillful as men's
She advocates for letting athletes express themselves freely and challenges the idea that looking good and performing well are mutually exclusive.
The interview touches on Carter's growing opportunities in brand partnerships, including collaborations with major companies like Uber and Nike. She expresses excitement about upcoming projects in clothing and beauty, showcasing her ability to leverage her athletic career into broader entrepreneurial ventures.
Carter offers valuable advice for young women aspiring to play professional basketball:
1. Always be open to learning, even from negative experiences.
2. Understand that there's always room for improvement.
3. Start thinking about post-playing career options early
Sydney Carter shares three key elements that contribute to her success:
1. Having a supportive and business-savvy agent
2. Maintaining a strong faith and practicing gratitude
3. Staying true to oneself despite external pressures or newfound status
Carter's story illustrates the evolving landscape of women's sports, where athletes can increasingly showcase their personalities, pursue diverse interests, and challenge long-standing stereotypes. Her journey from professional player to coach and her fashion-forward approach inspire a new generation of athletes to embrace their multifaceted identities.
As women's sports continue to gain recognition and support, stories like Sydney Carter's highlight the importance of representation, perseverance, and authenticity in paving the way for future generations of female athletes.