Here in Minnesota the name Lindsay Whalen is synonymous with basketball. The state’s hoops “Mount Rushmore” would include George Mikan, Kevin McHale, Kevin Garnett and Whalen. She’s earned the distinction because of her excellence on the court, winning four WNBA titles and two Olympic gold medals, but also because she has represented the midwestern values inherent in being a Minnesotan. Humility, hard work and the familiar “Minnesota Nice” led to Whalen being cherished and celebrated by those in the North Star state.
The Hutchinson, MN native broke onto the scene in 2004 when she led the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers Women’s Basketball team to their first Final Four appearance.