Women in sports: Trailblazers and advocates for equality

By Willie Brown, Executive Publisher Inglewood Today As we reflect on the great female athletes during Women’s History Month, we are reminded, sadly, of the gross pay inequities between men and women.  While top-tier NBA players like Lebron James will reportedly earn $128M for the 2023-2024 season, highest paid WNBA player, Jackie Young will earn $252,450. Fortunately, women aren’t competing just for the money. They are in it for the love of the game, and the opportunity to blaze trails for women behind them. The victories won by Serena Williams go far beyond the tennis court.  She is an inspiration and an icon. From her humble beginnings in Compton until her 23rd Grand Slam singles title, the tennis legend and her sister Venus are considered pioneers of a new era in tennis—one shaped by wealth, fame, celebrity and record-breaking wins. Danica Patrick paved the way in a sport that is hard-pressed for female representation.  Danica accomplished multiple firsts for open-wheel car racing and was the first woman to win an IndyCar Series race at the 2008 Indy Japan 300.  She is credited with inspiring more women to enter auto racing and motorsports. Professional wrestler and former mixed martial artist, Ronda...