CELEBRITY SPEAKERS

STATE OF WOMEN’S BASKETBALL PANEL DISCUSSION

Get ready for a dynamic conversation about the evolution and rise of women’s basketball and what the future holds for the industry. Top UPSHOT executives, trailblazing coaches, and former WNBA pros come together to share firsthand insights on the growth of the game, the challenges and triumphs shaping the sport today, and the opportunities driving the next generation of athletes. Don’t miss this inspiring and empowering conversation celebrating the impact of women in basketball!

PANELISTS

Donna Orender

PANEL HOST

Former President of the WNBA and Founder & CEO of Generation W

Donna Orender is a powerhouse executive whose visionary leadership has shaped some of the most recognizable brands in the sports industry. A former President of the WNBA and Senior Executive at the PGA TOUR, she currently serves as CEO of Orender Unlimited and is the founder of Generation W, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to education, inspiration, and connection, empowering women’s leadership to drive positive change across the country. A nationally recognized business leader, entrepreneur, author, and keynote speaker, Orender is widely regarded for her innovative thinking and passion for making a difference. Drawing on her extensive background in sports, entertainment, and media, as well as her career as a professional basketball player and Hall of Fame athlete, she continues to inspire and lead with purpose, impact, and authenticity.

CORETTA BROWN

HEAD COACH OF THE
SAVANNAH STEEL

HEAD COACH OF THE SAVANNAH STEEL

The new Head Coach of the UPSHOT League’s Savannah Steel women’s professional basketball team, Coretta Brown is a Georgia native and trailblazer in women’s basketball. A former Gatorade Player of the Year and UNC Tar Heel legend, she still holds the school record for career three-pointers and was a first-round pick in the 2003 WNBA Draft. After playing for the Indiana Fever and internationally, Brown built a two-decade NCAA Division I coaching career defined by strategy, player development, and team culture. Passionate about empowering women on and off the court, she continues to shape the future of the game through mentorship and excellence.

Jessica Bogia

HEAD COACH OF THE
JACKSONVILLE WAVES

HEAD COACH OF THE JACKSONVILLE WAVES

Jessica Bogia, the new Head Coach of the UPSHOT League’s Jacksonville Waves women’s professional basketball team, brings more than 20 years of coaching experience and a proven track record in player development, recruiting, and program building. She spent 14 years at the NCAA Division I level with key stops at Hofstra, Jacksonville University, and the University of Memphis, where she delivered nationally ranked recruiting classes and helped produce future WNBA talent. Bogia also coached at Eastern Illinois, Buffalo, Keystone College, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and Goldey-Beacom College, and made her mark in grassroots basketball with the Philadelphia Belles AAU program. Known for her player-first leadership and culture-driven approach, Bogia continues to elevate women’s basketball and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Taj McWilliams-Franklin

VP of Basketball Operations at The UPSHOT League

Taj McWilliams-Franklin is a trailblazer, mentor, and champion whose influence reaches across every level of basketball. A six-time WNBA All-Star, league champion, and Hall of Fame-caliber leader, she has dedicated her career to advancing women—on the court and beyond.

Before becoming Vice President of Basketball Operations for The UPSHOT League, Taj served in leadership roles with both the NBA and WNBA, focusing on player development, transition programs, and mentorship for current and former athletes. Her experience bridges the worlds of elite competition and professional growth, giving her a powerful platform to shape the next generation.

With her trademark strength, grace, and authenticity, “Mama Taj” inspires women to rise higher, lead fearlessly, and chase dreams on their own terms — proving that true success is found in lifting others along the way.

Erika Lambert

HEAD COACH OF
UNF Women’s Basketball

HEAD COACH OF UNF Women’s Basketball

Erika Lambert enters her third season as head coach of the University of North Florida women’s basketball program in 2025-26, continuing to strengthen the Ospreys’ foundation of competitiveness and academic success since her arrival in 2023.

Under her leadership, UNF has produced ASUN All-Freshman Team honorees, a program-record six Academic All-District selections, and a Division I single-game record when Alexa Washington hit 10 three-pointers.

Before joining North Florida, Lambert spent seven seasons as Associate Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Abilene Christian University, helping guide the Wildcats to a 184-83 record, a Southland Conference championship, and multiple postseason appearances. Recognized by The Athletic as one of the nation’s top rising coaches, she was also part of the Women Coaches “NEXT UP” initiative in 2020.

A former College of Charleston standout, Lambert co-founded “Moms in Coaching.” She and her husband, Paul, have two daughters, Ava and Mya.

Cherelle George

Torch of the
Harlem Globetrotters

Torch of the Harlem Globetrotters

Cherelle George is a trailblazing athlete, the first female Globetrotter Show woman, and a 6-time Guinness World Record holder. A 3-time Emmy nominee athlete, she has traveled to over 50 countries inspiring audiences through her basketball skill, global ambassadorship, and commitment to female empowerment. Cherelle is also an avid fan of pickleball, table tennis, and flag football, and has a passion for food, fashion, and documentaries.