The Chapman High School gym was packed tonight with family, friends, and a community united to celebrate the incredible legacy of Val Whiteside. In a moving jersey retirement ceremony, the school honored one of its all-time greats, whose impact transcended basketball and left a lasting mark on countless lives.
With both the Chapman and Dorman High School basketball teams lined along the court, the event began with moving remarks from Val’s former coach, Jane Lewis. Coach Lewis reflected on Val’s extraordinary talent, dedication, and the legendary 1982 State Championship game, where Val scored 42 points and grabbed 27 rebounds, a record-breaking performance that still resonates in the hearts of those who witnessed it.
Longtime friend and Chapman announcer, David Whitaker, guided the evening, recounting Val’s incredible achievements. During her time at Chapman from 1980-1984, Val scored 2,199 career points, averaging 18.6 points per game, and grabbed 1,897 rebounds, averaging 16 per game. She was a 3-time All-State selection, a 4-time All-Conference honoree, and earned Spartanburg Herald All-Area Team honors three consecutive years.
But her success didn’t stop there. Val continued her basketball journey at Appalachian State University, where she rewrote the record books:
2-time Southern Conference Player of the Year
2-time Conference Tournament MVP
League-record 2,944 career points, averaging 25 points per game
776 points in a single season (1987), ranking #6 nationally that year
42 school records, including most points in a single game (48) and most rebounds in a game (26)
4-time All-Southern Conference Player
2009 Southern Conference Hall of Fame inductee
Her legacy extended into her professional career, playing internationally in Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and Italy, before returning to South Carolina to coach at Dorman High School. Over 11 seasons, she amassed 215 wins, becoming Dorman’s winningest girls’ basketball coach.
The highlight of the evening came when Val’s sons, surrounded by family and friends, unveiled her jersey. Her jersey will serve as a permanent reminder of her excellence, dedication, and the lasting impact she had on her school and community.
“Val Whiteside’s story is one of greatness, perseverance, and heart,” shared Superintendent Dr. Mark Smith. “Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes, students, and all who strive for excellence.”
Spartanburg One would like to thank everyone who joined this historic evening to honor Val’s memory and contributions. Val Whiteside’s legacy will live on forever in the hearts of those she touched and in the spirit of Chapman athletics.