Heidi Burge Horton, a notable figure in women’s college basketball and a former WNBA player who inspired the Disney Channel movie “Double Teamed,” has passed away.
She was 54 years old.
A post on Eickenhorst Funeral Services’ website indicates that Horton, renowned for her performance on Virginia’s women’s basketball team, died on Monday after battling brain cancer.
Longtime journalist Jerry Ratcliffe reported that Horton’s tumors had returned in July after a period of remission, adding to the heartbreak of her passing.
Virginia women’s basketball expressed their sorrow on X, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Heidi Burge Horton. Heidi was a cherished member of the Virginia Women’s Basketball family, and her legacy will forever be a part of Virginia Athletics. Our sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.”
From 1989 to 1993, Horton, alongside her twin sister Heather, made significant contributions to the Cavaliers, leading them to three Final Four appearances while playing with Basketball Hall of Famer, Dawn Staley, who now coaches South Carolina’s women’s team.
Dawn Staley’s emotional tribute on X read, “We are all heartbroken! We love you, Heidi. May your soul rest in peace and your body pain free. #wahooforlife.”
After her college career, Horton went on to play internationally before joining the WNBA, where she played with the Sparks and the Mystics between 1997 and 1998.
Even after retiring, Horton remained connected to basketball, taking on roles such as a press and media broadcasting intern for the Houston Comets. She also worked as a physical therapist and a private basketball coach.
The 2002 Disney Channel film “Double Teamed” was inspired by the basketball journeys of Horton and her sister.
Annie McElwain, who portrayed Horton in the film, shared her condolences with E! News, saying, “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Heidi Burge. While I didn’t know Heidi personally, I’m incredibly grateful that her story, alongside Heather’s, became ‘Double Teamed’ and reached so many young viewers.”
McElwain also noted, “At a time when there were so few films celebrating women in sports, Heidi and Heather’s story helped young girls see that they, too, could dream big and become elite athletes. It’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind, and I hope the inspiration Heidi’s story sparked continues to create a ripple effect for generations to come. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.”
