Xavier Johnson’s arrival at Wednesday’s Portsmouth Invitational Tournament practice was marked by uncertainty regarding his coaching staff for the 70th edition of the event.

Upon his arrival, Johnson was introduced to his coaches: Mike Holland, Roland Ross, and Cynthia Cooper. Despite the illustrious reputation of the coaching trio, Johnson admitted to a complete lack of recognition, particularly regarding Cooper.

Reflecting on the experience, Johnson confessed, “To be candid, I was unaware. However, snippets of her remarkable history were shared during our interactions.” He further remarked on Cooper’s on-court prowess, recalling a skillful no-look pass that caught his attention, prompting him to acknowledge, “Alright, she possesses formidable skills. I ought to delve deeper into her legacy.”

Indeed, Johnson’s forthcoming research will reveal Cynthia Cooper’s status as a titan in the realm of basketball, boasting an unparalleled legacy of championship triumphs across various levels of the sport.

From her dominant high school performances at Locke High, where she propelled her team to a California state championship with an impressive 31-point average, to her collegiate partnership with Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller, resulting in consecutive national titles at Southern California, Cooper’s journey exemplifies excellence.

Transitioning beyond collegiate confines, Cooper ventured overseas to compete against the world’s finest, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to the game. The inception of the WNBA in 1997 marked a pivotal moment in her career trajectory.

2000: Cynthia Cooper-Dyke goes 4-for-4 | In the first four seasons of the WNBA, Cynthia Cooper-Dyke helped the Houston Comets win four titles. In each of those four championship runs, Cooper-Dyke was named the Finals MVP. Cooper also led the league in scoring three of those first four seasons, and now is enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

At the age of 34, Cooper returned stateside to embark on a legendary WNBA career. Earning two MVP titles and guiding the Houston Comets to an unprecedented four consecutive championships, she etched her name in basketball lore. As a four-time All-WNBA first-team selection and three-time scoring leader, Cooper’s impact on the sport transcends statistical accolades, embodying the epitome of excellence and resilience on the hardwood.

Holland, serving as the head boys basketball coach at Churchland High, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to coach alongside Cooper, considering it a realization of a long-held aspiration.

“In all honesty, I felt deeply honored. She’s a titan in the basketball world, a world champion, Olympian, and an exceptional player. In my view, the WNBA owes its genesis to her,” he articulated. “Having the chance to glean wisdom from her is a privilege beyond measure. She embodies professionalism, and these aspiring players can glean invaluable insights from her expertise.”

Guard A.J. Hoggard, hailing from Michigan State, lavished praise upon Cooper, particularly lauding her boundless energy and unwavering passion for the game.

“Wow, it was truly remarkable. Learning from a luminary like her was a rare privilege. The opportunity to delve into her wealth of knowledge was invaluable,” he effused. “Given her background as a guard, absorbing her insights at the professional level was immensely beneficial.”

Cynthia Cooper, former WNBA player and Olympian, high-fives a player while coaching the Jani-King team during the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament at Churchland High School on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.(Kendall Warner / The Virginian-Pilot)

In contrast to some attendees at the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (PIT), Hoggard was well-versed in Cooper’s illustrious legacy.

“Absolutely, without a doubt,” he affirmed with a chuckle. “It was a bit surprising initially. I recognized her unmistakable visage, but it was surreal. Nonetheless, it was an exhilarating experience.”

“She instills in us the confidence to embrace our skills and trust in the years of hard work we’ve invested,” he added. “Her infectious energy keeps us driven.”

Johnson, a former George Mason player who later joined Southern Illinois, extolled Cooper’s profound understanding of the sport.

“She’s an exceptional coach, offering invaluable insights,” he commended. “I hold her in high regard and deeply appreciate her contributions.”

Reflecting on her illustrious playing career, Cooper exuded nostalgia and optimism for the future of women’s basketball, both at the collegiate and WNBA levels.

“Ah, if only I had this level of support back in my day, I might have played until I was 60,” she mused, a smile gracing her lips. “I’m thrilled by the increased visibility women’s basketball is receiving. It’s well-deserved; these athletes have toiled tirelessly, not just in the WNBA but also at the collegiate level.”

She expressed delight at the monumental viewership of the NCAA women’s title game and praised the impact of emerging stars like Caitlin Clark, the top pick in the WNBA draft, whose acknowledgment of Cooper and other trailblazers on Saturday Night Live resonated deeply.

“It warms my heart to see today’s players acknowledging those who paved the way,” Cooper remarked. “While we laid the foundation, it’s ultimately their dedication that will fortify the WNBA’s legacy.”