One-Armed Basketball Star Scores Big, Inspires With Determination

Quick Smiles:

• Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel made history as the first female basketball player with one arm to score in a Division III game.
• Her journey from being cut in high school to leading her college team to success is truly inspiring.
• Baileigh draws inspiration from fellow athletes overcoming similar challenges, like Hansel Emmanuel.

In a season filled with memorable moments, one shot stood out not just for its precision but for its powerful message. Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel, a junior guard at Lesley University, took a left-handed shot from the three-point line, making history as it sailed through the net.

Born with a right arm that she couldn’t use, Baileigh faced unique challenges on the court. After being cut from her high school team, she could have given up.

Instead, she pushed forward, determined to play college basketball.

“When the shot went in I thought, ‘Hey, we have to preserve this moment for as long as we possibly can,’” said her coach Martin Rather.

Her team celebrated with unrestrained joy. “The entire team was filled with joy,” Baileigh shared, reflecting on the moment.

She added another milestone by scoring again on her birthday, just seven weeks later.

Baileigh’s journey wasn’t easy. After being cut from her high school team, she felt a loss of identity.

But she didn’t let that stop her. She reached out to countless college coaches, determined to find a place where she could continue playing.

She began her college career at Warren Wilson College before transferring to Lesley University, where Coach Rather recognized her potential.

“I think any team in this country would benefit from having a player with Baileigh’s heart on their team,” Rather said.

Her hard work has paid off, leading the team to its best season in 14 years, including a playoff victory against a top-seeded opponent.

Baileigh’s story is one of perseverance and inspiration, resonating with many.

She found motivation in Hansel Emmanuel, a men’s basketball player who also plays with one arm.

“If it was not for him, I probably would have thought that this was close to impossible to accomplish,” Baileigh shared.

Now, both Baileigh and Hansel serve as shining examples for athletes everywhere, proving that physical limitations are no match for determination and passion.

Their stories are a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of believing in oneself.

With every play, they inspire countless others to rise above challenges and reach for their dreams.

As Baileigh’s story spreads, it continues to inspire and uplift, showing that anything is possible with dedication and heart.

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