In 1896, the first organized girls' basketball team was formed at Bloomington High School – just five years after the sport was founded. The BHS girls competed against teams from Illinois State Normal University and Illinois Wesleyan University. Just three years later, interest among female students at the school was so high, four teams were formed.
The following appeared in the June 1897 edition of the school's newspaper:
"One day a couple of weeks ago, the basket ball girls met at the photographer's to have their pictures taken. About twenty were assembled, including the coach, and a large group picture was taken. The teams were dressed in their suits, and of course tried to look their best. Some looked sour, some looked sweet, and some looked sentimental, but still the pictures proved quite a success. All those who had their pictures taken, bought one and many were sold among the pupils."
Courtesy of the McLean County Museum of History
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