Heidi Burge Horton, a women’s college basketball star and WNBA player who was the inspiration for the Disney Channel movie “Double Teamed,” has died.
She was 54.
According to a post on Eickenhorst Funeral Services’ website, Horton, a standout on Virginia’s women’s basketball team, died Monday following a battle with brain cancer.
Longtime journalist Jerry Ratcliffe first reported the tragic news, saying that Horton’s tumors returned in July after initially going into remission.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Heidi Burge Horton,” Virginia women’s basketball posted on X. “Heidi was a cherished member of the Virginia Women’s Basketball family, her legacy will forever be a part of Virginia Athletics. Our sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.”
During her tenure with Virginia from 1989-93, Horton and her twin sister Heather helped lead the Cavaliers to three Final Four appearances while playing alongside Basketball Hall of Famer — and current South Carolina women’s coach — Dawn Staley.
“We are all heartbroken! We love you Heidi,” Staley posted on X. “May your soul rest in peace and your body pain free. #wahooforlife.”
Following her college career, Horton played overseas before eventually reaching the WNBA, spending time with the Sparks and the Mystics from 1997-98.
Horton stuck around the game after her retirement, working for the Houston Comets as a press and media broadcasting intern. She was also a physical therapist and private basketball coach.
The Disney Channel movie “Double Teamed,” released in 2002, was based on Horton and her twin sister’s basketball careers.
“I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Heidi Burge,” Annie McElwain, who starred as Horton in the film, told E! News. “While I didn’t know Heidi personally, I’m incredibly grateful that her story, alongside Heather’s, became ‘Double Teamed’ and reached so many young viewers.”
“At a time when there were so few films celebrating women in sports, Heidi and Heather’s story helped young girls see that they, too, could dream big and become elite athletes,” she continued. “It’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind, and I hope the inspiration Heidi’s story sparked continues to create a ripple effect for generations to come.
“My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.”
