The University of California’s Raising the B.A.R. (Basketball, Activism, Representation) Invitational, spearheaded by Cal coach Charmin Smith, is more than a basketball tournament—it’s a platform for representation, activism, and community engagement.
This four-team event, featuring programs led by Black female head coaches, spotlights diversity in women’s college basketball and fosters a culture of giving back.
“In our sport, only 17% of head coaches are women of color,” Smith tells the Associated Press. “This tournament elevates voices, highlights the lack of diversity, and emphasizes belonging.”
The tournament, hosted this weekend at Berkeley, brings together Cal, Fordham, Temple, and Xavier.
Beyond the games, a Friday panel provided a space for all four head coaches to discuss challenges and triumphs in their journeys.
Basketball Meets Activism
Inspired by her mentor, Hall of Fame coach Tara VanDerveer, Smith has long merged activism with athletics. During Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath, Smith initiated a fundraiser tied to basketball assists, raising over $18,000 for Habitat for Humanity.
This legacy of activism continues with this year’s tournament, which includes a fundraising component for charities selected by each team.
- Cal supports People’s Programs, an Oakland-based community organization.
- Fordham champions Part of the Solution (POTS), a Bronx shelter offering food and essential services.
- Temple funds the Philadelphia Youth Sports Collaborative, fostering equitable access to sports.
- Xavier aids Cincinnati Stepping Stones, providing programs for individuals with disabilities.
Fordham coach Bridgette Mitchell emphasized the tournament’s importance. “Representation matters. My players look up to me, and young girls look up to them. What Charmin is doing is extraordinary—it’s something to be celebrated.”
A Vision for the Future
While this year’s tournament takes place right before Christmas, Smith plans to move the event to Santa Cruz in future seasons, holding it earlier in the year at the NBA G-League facility.
“This tournament isn’t just about basketball,” Smith stated. “It’s about amplifying the voices and stories of Black women in leadership and fostering a deeper sense of community.”
