Who is Nikki McCray Husband Thomas Penson?
by Priyanka P
Updated Jul 10, 2023
Who is Nikki McCray?
Nikki McCray, also known as Nikki McCray-Penson, was an exceptional American basketball player and coach. Born on December 17, 1971, McCray made significant contributions to the sport throughout her career. She played professionally in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) for eight seasons from 1996 to 2006 and later transitioned into coaching.
As a player, McCray stood out as a 5-foot-11-inch (1.80 m) guard who showcased her talents at the University of Tennessee. She went on to have a successful career in the WNBA, representing teams such as the Washington Mystics, Indiana Fever, Phoenix Mercury, San Antonio Silver Stars, and Chicago Sky.
McCray's skills on the court earned her recognition as a three-time WNBA All-Star, selected for the honor in 1999, 2000, and 2001. Throughout her career, she scored an impressive total of 2,550 points. Prior to her WNBA tenure, McCray excelled in the now-defunct American Basketball League, where she was named the Most Valuable Player for the 1996-97 season.
McCray's impact was not limited to the domestic stage; she also represented the United States at the international level. She won gold medals as part of the national team at the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics. Additionally, McCray showcased her skills as a world-class defender, earning a reputation for shutting down some of the best players in women's basketball.
Following her playing career, McCray embarked on a successful coaching journey. She started as an assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team under the leadership of her former teammate, Dawn Staley. McCray's coaching skills and dedication were recognized, leading her to become the head coach for the Mississippi State Bulldogs women's basketball team from 2020 to 2021.
McCray's impact extended beyond the basketball court. She actively engaged in community service, and her contributions were acknowledged when she was hand-picked by President Bill Clinton to be a member of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports in 2000.
McCray's commitment to promoting physical health and her role as a role model for young people were celebrated by organizations such as the Library of Congress, which selected her as the keynote speaker for the Women's History Month Address in 1999.
Tragically, McCray's life was marked by her battle with breast cancer. She was diagnosed with the disease in 2013 while working as a coach at the University of South Carolina. Despite her health challenges, McCray fought with strength and resilience, entering remission later that year. However, the disease ultimately claimed her life on July 7, 2023, at the age of 51.
Nikki McCray's legacy is one of outstanding achievements in basketball, both as a player and a coach. She inspired others with her exceptional skills, dedication to the sport, and commitment to making a positive impact off the court. McCray will be remembered for her tenacity, leadership, and the lasting contributions she made to the world of basketball.
Name
Nikki McCray-Penson
Age
51 (At the time of her death)
Birthdate
December 17, 1971
Profession
Basketball Player and Coach
WNBA Career
1996-2006 (8 seasons)
WNBA All-Star
1999, 2000, 2001
Hall of Fame
2012 Inductee
Coaching Career
Assistant Coach, University of South Carolina
Specifications
Details
Date of Death
July 7, 2023
Who is Nikki McCray Husband Thomas Penson?
Thomas Penson is the husband of the late Nikki McCray. He was a significant figure in McCray's life, supporting her throughout her battle with breast cancer. Penson and McCray shared a strong bond, and their relationship was marked by various meaningful moments.
Penson, like McCray, attended the University of Tennessee, where they both pursued their respective interests. McCray excelled in basketball, while Penson focused on his studies in electrical engineering. After graduating from the university in 1995, Penson embarked on a career in the field, working for Kendal Electric.
It was during one of McCray's league basketball games that Penson proposed to her, displaying his love and commitment in a public and memorable way. They celebrated their marriage on March 30, 2022, and spent 21 years together as husband and wife.
When McCray was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013, Penson stood by her side as she fought the disease. He played an active role in supporting her, attending numerous cancer-related events and demonstrating his unwavering support for her cause. One notable event took place in 2015 before a South Carolina game, where Penson donned pink attire and carried their son on his shoulders, symbolizing solidarity with breast cancer survivors.
While there is limited information available about Thomas Penson's personal life outside of what Nikki McCray shared on social media, it is known that he currently works at Irby, an electrical supply distributor.
Penson's dedication and love for McCray were evident throughout their relationship. His presence and support were instrumental in helping her navigate the challenges posed by her illness. As McCray's husband, Penson played an essential role in her life, providing unwavering support and love until her unfortunate passing.
Nikki McCray Husband
Nikki McCray's husband is Thomas Penson. Their relationship was marked by love, support, and shared experiences. Penson played a significant role in McCray's life, particularly during her battle with breast cancer. Here are some key details about their relationship:
Proposal and Marriage: Penson proposed to McCray during one of her league basketball games, showcasing his love and commitment in a public and memorable way. They tied the knot on March 30, 2022, after being together for 21 years. Their marriage was a testament to their enduring bond and shared journey.
Education and Career: Both McCray and Penson attended the University of Tennessee. McCray pursued her basketball career, while Penson focused on his studies in electrical engineering. After graduating in 1995, Penson went on to work for Kendal Electric, showcasing his professional achievements.
Support during Cancer Battle: McCray was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 while she was part of the coaching staff at the South Carolina Gamecocks. Throughout her fight against the disease, Penson remained a pillar of support. He actively participated in cancer-related events and stood by McCray's side, demonstrating his dedication and love.
A memorable instance was in 2015 when Penson, wearing pink attire, and carrying their son on his shoulders, did a lap around the court before a South Carolina game to show support for breast cancer survivors.
While limited information is available about Thomas Penson's personal life beyond what Nikki McCray shared on social media, it is known that he currently works at Irby, an electrical supply distributor.
Thomas Penson's role as Nikki McCray's husband was characterized by love, devotion, and unwavering support. He stood by her side during her basketball career, her battle with cancer, and in their shared life together. Penson's presence and dedication were instrumental in helping McCray navigate the challenges she faced.
Nikki McCray Family
Nikki McCray was a beloved member of her family, and her passing left a significant void in their lives. While specific details about her immediate family members are not available, we can gather some insights about her family relationships.
Throughout her life, Nikki McCray-Penson was supported by her family in her basketball career and personal endeavors. Her husband, Thomas Penson, played a crucial role in her life, offering unwavering support during her battle with breast cancer. Penson proposed to McCray during one of her basketball games, and they enjoyed a loving marriage that lasted for 21 years until her passing.
McCray-Penson and Penson were blessed with a son, whose age is mentioned as ten years old. Their family unit shared special moments together, such as Penson carrying their son on his shoulders while doing a lap around the court during a breast cancer awareness event. This demonstrated their strong bond as a family and their commitment to supporting breast cancer survivors.
While the specific details about Nikki McCray's parents, siblings, and extended family members are not mentioned in the provided information, it is reasonable to assume that they played a significant role in shaping her life and supporting her basketball career.
Family support often plays a crucial role in the success and well-being of athletes, and it is likely that McCray's family provided her with the encouragement and foundation necessary to achieve her accomplishments.
In times of both triumph and adversity, McCray's family likely stood by her side, offering love, encouragement, and support. While the details of her family relationships remain largely undisclosed, it is clear that McCray was cherished and loved by those closest to her.
Who is Nikki McCray Son?
Nikki McCray's son is Thomas Nikson Penson. Born on February 1, 2013, in Columbia, South Carolina, Thomas was a significant source of joy and inspiration in Nikki McCray-Penson's life. At the time of his birth, Nikki was serving as an assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball team.
Thomas grew up alongside his mother, who faced a challenging battle with breast cancer starting in November 2013. Despite the adversity, he remained a source of strength and motivation for Nikki during her ten-year fight against the disease.
As a young basketball enthusiast, Thomas enjoyed watching his mother's team play. He sometimes had the opportunity to join her on the bench or in the locker room, immersing himself in the exciting world of basketball. He also cultivated his own passion for the sport, dedicating time to practice shooting by taking 200 shots each night on the hoop above his door.
Aside from basketball, Thomas had a love for reading. He found delight in books authored by renowned writers such as Dr. Seuss and enjoyed stories like "Little Blue Truck." Thomas's love for reading contributed to his development of a curious and imaginative mind.
Thomas's presence even extended to his mother's recruiting efforts. With his adorable charm, he played a role in captivating potential players, leaving a lasting impression on their visits.
Tragically, Thomas faced the heartbreaking loss of his mother on July 7, 2023, when she passed away at the age of 51 due to complications related to breast cancer. However, he continues to be supported and loved by his father, Thomas Penson, who works as an electrical engineer.
Thomas Nikson Penson remains a cherished and beloved son, forever connected to the memories and love of his mother, Nikki McCray-Penson. His presence in her life brought immense joy, and his resilience and strength serve as a testament to their enduring bond.
who is Nikki Mccray Husband Thomas Penson?- FAQs
Thomas Penson is the husband of the late Nikki McCray. He was a significant figure in McCray's life, supporting her throughout her battle with breast cancer.
Nikki McCray, also known as Nikki McCray-Penson, was an American basketball player and coach who had a successful career in the WNBA and made significant contributions to the sport.
McCray was a three-time WNBA All-Star, inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, won gold medals at the 1996 and 2000 Summer Olympics, and had a successful coaching career.
Yes, Nikki McCray had a son whose name is Thomas Nikson Penson.
McCray began her coaching career as an assistant coach at the University of South Carolina before becoming the head coach at Mississippi State. She had a notable impact as a coach.