Players Mentioned
USC’s Rayah Marshall Honored as Recipient of Kay Yow Servant Leader Award
December 08, 2024 | Women's Basketball
USC's Rayah Marshall was selected as a recipient of the Kay Yow Servant Leader in the award's inaugural 2024-25 year. The award recognizes student-athletes who exemplify the values of leadership, selflessness and service, embodying the Hall of Fame basketball coach Kay Yow.
"We are thrilled to introduce the Kay Yow Servant Leader Award as part of our ongoing mission to honor Coach Yow's legacy," said Jenny Palmateer, CEO of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. "This award highlights the kind of leadership that inspires hope, brings people together, and makes the world a better place. Just as Coach Yow did, we hope this recognition will inspire others to lead with compassion and purpose."
Now in her senior season at USC, Marshall has developed into an on- and off-court leader for the Women of Troy, who are ranked No. 6 in the nation and coming off a 2024 run to the NCAA Elite Eight. Passionate about giving back to her Los Angeles community, Marshall is an L.A. native, fan favorite and one of the best centers to play the game at USC. She ranks No. 3 all-time in career blocks, and she's moving up the ladder in career rebounds at USC, standing tall at No. 8 all-time with plenty more basketball ahead for herself and the Trojans.
Marshall is joined by a cohort of 14 other women's basketball players across the nation. Award recipients are distinguished by a special patch on their game-worn jerseys, symbolizing their role as servant leaders.
Honoring the Legacy of Kay Yow
Kay Yow battled breast cancer for 22 years, inspiring individuals with her compassion, passion and integrity. She was admired for her character on and off the court,
About the Award
The Kay Yow Servant Leader Award honors Yow's legacy and the young people who carry the fight forward, inspiring others through their actions and leadership. It is presented annually to student-athletes who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to making a positive impact in their communities – people with a servant's spirit and a commitment to selfless leadership both on and off the court or athletic field.
The introduction of this award strengthens the Kay Yow Cancer Fund organization's commitment to fostering a spirit of service and leadership, values that were core to Coach Yow's life and career.
About Kay Yow Cancer Fund
The Kay Yow Cancer Fund was officially founded on Dec. 3, 2007, fulfilling Yow's vision to support advanced research, extend the quality of life for those battling cancer, serve the underserved, and unite people. To learn more, visit kayyow.com
