Doug Feinberg: A Champion for Women’s Basketball and Journalism
A Legacy of Dedication and Passion
Doug Feinberg, a distinguished Associated Press (AP) Basketball Writer, has been selected for the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) Hall of Fame Class of 2025. This recognition is a testament to Feinberg’s nearly two decades of tireless dedication to covering women’s basketball. Since joining the AP in 1995, Feinberg has become a cornerstone of the sport, providing immersive and thoughtful coverage that has helped elevate women’s basketball onto the national stage. His journey began in 2006 when he shifted his focus to women’s hoops, and since then, he has overseen the AP Top 25 women’s basketball poll, a tradition started by Hall of Famer Mel Greenberg in the late 1970s. Feinberg’s passion for the sport is evident in every story he writes, every game he covers, and every relationship he builds with athletes, coaches, and fans alike.
Covering the Biggest Moments in Women’s Basketball
Feinberg has been a witness to—and a chronicler of—some of the most iconic moments in women’s basketball history. From the nail-biting thrill of Morgan William’s Final Four overtime jumper in 2017, which ended UConn’s historic 111-game winning streak, to the heartwarming stories of resilience and triumph, Feinberg has been there to capture it all. This year, he will cover his 17th women’s Final Four, a milestone that speaks to his enduring commitment to the sport. Beyond the college game, Feinberg has also brought global women’s basketball to life, covering five Olympic tournaments and four World Championships and World Cups. His ability to tell compelling stories has earned him the trust of players, coaches, and fans worldwide.
Breaking Barriers and Highlighting Injustices
Feinberg’s journalism is not just about scoring plays and championships; it’s about shedding light on the challenges faced by women’s basketball players. He has consistently used his platform to address issues such as pay disparities between men’s and women’s referees and the everyday struggles of female athletes navigating the world of professional sports. For instance, in 2023, he joined the New York Liberty on a cross-country flight to highlight the difficulties faced by taller players, like 6-foot-4 Breanna Stewart, on commercial flights. His work has also brought international attention to critical issues, such as Brittney Griner’s 10-month imprisonment in Russia, which was named AP Sports’ Story of the Year in 2022. Feinberg’s reporting is a powerful reminder of the role journalists play in amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard.
Building Relationships and Creating Joyful Moments
What sets Feinberg apart is not just his journalistic prowess but his genuine love for the sport and the people involved. His deep relationships with players and coaches have allowed him to produce unique behind-the-scenes content, such as surprise videos of athletes like Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers being named Player of the Year. These moments, filled with joy and authenticity, have become a hallmark of Feinberg’s coverage. Dave Zelio, an assistant sports editor for the AP, praised Feinberg for his ability to make even the most routine tasks fun and engaging. For example, Feinberg started a tradition where All-America players create short videos, which have become a delightful annual highlight. His approach to journalism is a testament to the power of passion and relationships in storytelling.
A Hall of Fame Recognition
Feinberg’s induction into the USBWA Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor that reflects his contributions to women’s basketball and sports journalism. He will be celebrated during this year’s Final Four in Tampa, Florida, joining an elite group of journalists who have made a lasting impact on the sport. Feinberg is the second AP writer to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, following in the footsteps of his longtime colleague Jim O’Connell, who was honored in 2002. This recognition is not just a celebration of Feinberg’s career but also a nod to the broader significance of women’s basketball in American sports culture.
Beyond Journalism: A Coach and Advocate
Doug Feinberg’s impact extends far beyond the world of journalism. Off the court, he is an assistant girls’ basketball coach and head track and field coach at The Dalton School in New York. His work as a coach speaks to his deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and leaders. In 2018, Feinberg received the Mel Greenberg Media Award from the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association, further cementing his reputation as a champion for women’s hoops. Through his work as a journalist, coach, and advocate, Feinberg continues to inspire countless individuals and leave a lasting legacy in the world of sports. His story is a reminder of the power of passion, dedication, and joy in making a difference.
