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WBL: Pioneering Women's Basketball League Lasts Three Seasons

4/20/2026

48 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Women's Basketball League (WBL) was founded in 1978 as the United States' first professional women's basketball league, with Molly Kazmer and Nancy Lieberman.
The league lasted three seasons despite attendance challenges.
The WBL fostered camaraderie among players.
The WBL's final game occurred on April 20, 1981, with the Nebraska Wranglers defeating the Diamonds.
It also paved the way for future leagues such as the WNBA.

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Story summary

The Women's Basketball League (WBL) was founded in 1978 as the United States' first professional women's basketball league, with Molly Kazmer and Nancy Lieberman.
The league lasted three seasons despite attendance challenges.
The WBL fostered camaraderie among players.
The WBL's final game occurred on April 20, 1981, with the Nebraska Wranglers defeating the Diamonds.
It also paved the way for future leagues such as the WNBA.