Ep. 15 Oklahoma Basketball Legend, Danielle Gant. Talks PC West, Texas A&M, WNBA and Overseas

On The ROK Podcast with Coach Love, we had the honor of sitting down with Danielle Gant, one of the most dominant basketball players to come out of Oklahoma. From her early days at Putnam City West High School to becoming a defensive force at Texas A&M, Gant’s journey is one of grit, perseverance, and excellence.  

Dominance at Texas A&M  
At A&M, Gant thrived under Vic Schaefer, then an assistant coach and defensive guru. She fully bought into the program’s defensive-first mentality, making her one of the most feared two-way players in the Big 12. Her relentless energy and ability to lock down opponents earned her:  

• 2× First Team All-Big 12 (2008, 2009)  
  
  
• 3× Big 12 All-Defensive Team (2007, 2008, 2009)  
  
  
• Associated Press All-American  
  
  
• Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year  
  
  
• Only player in Texas A&M history to earn three Big 12 All-Defensive Team honors  
  
  

Her defensive impact helped build the culture that led to A&M’s 2011 National Championship, proving she was a cornerstone of the program’s success.  

Overcoming Adversity  
Despite her college dominance, Gant faced a major challenge after being selected in the second round of the 2009 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky. After battling in training camp, she was cut—a tough reality many athletes face. But instead of letting it define her, Gant kept pushing forward.  

She took her talents overseas, competing in Turkey and Puerto Rico, where she continued to shine. Her ability to adapt and thrive in different basketball cultures proved her resilience and love for the game.  

Lessons from the Journey  
On the podcast, Gant spoke about the mental toughness needed to overcome setbacks. She emphasized the importance of staying ready, trusting the process, and finding success beyond the WNBA. Her story is a powerful reminder that true champions don’t quit—they adjust, keep grinding, and make an impact wherever they play.  

Having Danielle Gant on The ROK Podcast was inspiring. Her legacy of dominance, perseverance, and resilience is a blueprint for young athletes chasing greatness.