GenQ - For the not so straight individual

Growing up as a tomboy in Brownfield, Texas WNBA star Sheryl Swoopes preferred to play with sports with her brothers then pick up one of her own dolls. Knowing at a young age she was not into the girlie things her mother wanted her to be, Sheryl continued to be active in sports landing her a spot as MVP with the Comets. Previously married with an eight-year-old son, Sheryl found herself looking to move into a different path in her life.

She soon found herself falling into a blossoming relationship with basketball coach, Alisa Scott who was that listening ear that Sheryl needed when her marriage was coming to an end. Their friendship developed into more and Sheryl finally came to terms with her sexuality. She was gay. Sheryl and Alisa kept their relationship secretive until three years into the relationship when Sheryl came out to her mother. The reaction was to be expected, Sheryl's mother blamed herself and wondered what she did wrong in bringing up her daughter. Sheryl was quick to let her mother know that she was happy and it was who she was.

Sheryl continued to remain in the closet until a trip of a lifetime came forth. Sheryl and her partner decided to book a trip with Olivia cruises, a company that caters to the lesbian community. She was approached by the CEO of Olivia cruises, Amy Errett, to be the spokesperson for Olivia. Sheryl then knew that her closet days have come to an end. Her coming out story was soon spread all over the media and was often the height of talk at the water cooler. She hopes that by her coming out, the WNBA will market more to the gay community and receive support in return.