We’re excited to celebrate Katrina Haddad, who has been selected as one of 12 winners of the 2025 USA Basketball Women in the Game Conference in Tampa on April 3. Chosen from a record number of applicants, Katrina has been awarded a scholarship and will have the opportunity to learn from some of the top women in the sports industry.
The USA Basketball Women in the Game initiative is designed to educate high school girls, college women, and young professionals about career paths in the sports industry, helping them turn their passion into opportunity. Through guest speakers from various sports business fields, participants gain insight into career journeys, key success traits, industry strategies, and how to build and sustain a career in the competitive world of sports.
As a dedicated Hardwood Hustle coach, Katrina embodies what it means to inspire and lead the next generation of athletes. In this interview, she shares her experiences, her identity within and beyond basketball, what drives her, and what it truly means to be part of the Hardwood Hustle family.
What drives you to keep going, even in your hardest moments?
My family is my biggest driving force. My parents immigrated here from Jordan and had to build
their life from the ground up, showing me firsthand what resilience and hard work looks like.
Their dedication pushes me to work just as hard. Another motivator for me is the fear of being
average- I don’t want to settle. I want to see what I’m capable of, and the only way to do that is
to go after every opportunity that aligns with your goals.
What inspired you to apply for the Women in the Game Conference?
As an undergraduate studying exercise science, I want to explore all possible career paths in
athletics. This conference is an incredible opportunity to learn from industry leaders, connect
with like-minded individuals, and gain insight into different roles within sports. Seeing the
lineup of speakers made me even more excited to be a part of such an admirable foundation.
By attending this conference I have the opportunity to connect, network, and learn from
like-minded individuals who are extremely successful in what they do. They all share a similar
passion in helping youth athletes become the best version of themselves.
How have you turned your challenges into opportunities for success?
Tearing my ACL and meniscus twice was one of the most difficult experiences of my
life. It tested me, but it also shaped me. Going through that kind of physical and mental battle
made me realize how difficult it is to find your identity outside of sports. If I felt that struggle, I
knew others did too, and I wanted to be a voice for them. This inspired me to become the founder, president, and campus captain of The Hidden Opponent on campus as a freshman, raising mental health awareness for student-athletes. I’ve also been serving as the manager of the women’s basketball team for three years, staying connected to the game in a meaningful way. For me, it’s about turning pain into purpose- using
my experiences to give back and support others.
As you enter this mentorship program with USA Basketball/Women in the Game, what
excites you most about being mentored?
I am excited to gain insight from professionals who have paved the way in the sports industry.
They have broken the status quo, and continue to do so every single day. Learning from their
experiences, challenges, and successes will not only help shape my career, but also give me the
tools to make a meaningful impact. I’m eager to absorb as much knowledge as possible and
apply it to my own journey. I would truly like to thank Jennifer Lynne and USA basketball staff
for this opportunity.
As a young professional, what are your biggest dreams?
I would love to continue to be involved in athletics either as a physical therapist, strength and
conditioning coach, basketball coach, or something I haven’t discovered yet. My biggest goal is
to inspire young female athletes- to help them build confidence, prioritize their physical and
mental health, and reach their full potential both on and off the court. I want to create a space
where they feel supported, challenged, and empowered.
In what ways has Hardwood Hustle contributed to your development as a young
professional?
Hardwood Hustle is not a place, but a family. It’s a culture built on resilience, passion,
and growth. The staff have been incredible mentors for me and have shown me what it means to
be both a great coach and a great person. They’ve taught me to believe in myself and lead with
heart and confidence. Beyond that, the athletes I work with inspire me everyday. Their
dedication, work ethic, and determination remind me why I love this field. I’m grateful to be part
of an environment that pushes me to grow while allowing me to give back in meaningful ways.
https://www.usab.com/play/women-in-the-game/women-in-the-game-2025-tampa