**Nancy Lieberman Inspires Hillcrest High School During Second Annual Visit** On December 10, 2025, Hillcrest High School welcomed back basketball legend and trailblazer Nancy Lieberman for her second annual visit, an event that once again energized students with a powerful message about perseverance, discipline, and believing in oneself. Lieberman’s return was met with enthusiasm as students gathered to hear firsthand how hard work, resilience, and an unrelenting commitment to excellence shaped her life and career. Throughout her talk, Lieberman emphasized the importance of never giving up, even when the odds seem stacked against you. She challenged students to outwork those around them, not out of competition alone, but out of respect for their own potential. “I'm a VICTOR” she explained, “not a victim." Her message resonated deeply with students navigating academic pressures, extracurricular commitments, and personal challenges of their own. Lieberman shared personal stories from her childhood and upbringing, offering a candid look at the obstacles she faced on her journey. Growing up in a modest household, she spoke about learning early on the value of responsibility, self-belief, and grit. She described long hours spent practicing basketball fundamentals, often when no one was watching, and how those unseen hours became the foundation of her success. Her stories highlighted that setbacks are not roadblocks, but opportunities to grow stronger. As one of the most influential figures in basketball history, Lieberman’s accomplishments provided a compelling backdrop to her message. She discussed her storied playing career, including her success at the collegiate level, her impact on international basketball, and her role in elevating women’s basketball at a time when opportunities were far more limited than they are today. Lieberman also spoke about her groundbreaking work as a coach, where she continued to break barriers and prove that leadership, knowledge, and preparation transcend gender. Her experiences underscored the idea that overcoming obstacles often means being willing to step into spaces where you may not feel immediately welcomed. What made the visit especially meaningful was Lieberman’s genuine engagement with students. After her presentation, students were invited to ask questions, leading to thoughtful conversations about balancing goals, handling failure, and staying motivated during difficult times. Lieberman answered each question with honesty and encouragement, often drawing from her own experiences to provide practical advice. Following the question-and-answer session, students had the opportunity to take photos with Lieberman, creating memorable moments that many described as inspiring and affirming. She also encouraged students to continue the conversation beyond the assembly, inviting them to reach out to her through social media with additional questions or for guidance. This openness reinforced her belief in mentorship and the importance of supporting the next generation. Lieberman’s second annual visit to Hillcrest High School left a lasting impression. More than a talk about basketball, her message was a lesson in life: success is built through hard work, resilience, and the courage to keep going when things get tough. As students returned to their classes, they carried with them not just memories of meeting a sports icon, but a renewed sense of motivation to pursue their goals with determination and confidence.