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Former national basketballer dishing out support to hurricane-ravaged victims
December 08, 2025
Former national representative and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) player Vanessa Gidden has risen from the sidelines, inspired by her deep-rooted connection to Jamaica in assisting her country.
Gidden, who is from Trelawny, returned home a few weeks ago to distribute items to more than 300 western Jamaica residents in her parish and Westmoreland who are recovering from Hurricane Melissa, which ravaged parts of the region.
"My goal is not just to rebuild structures, but to uplift spirits through sport, mentorship, and community engagement. I want the next generation of Jamaicans to know that there is hope beyond the storm," said Gidden.
"When disasters pass, people often overlook the emotional and mental toll left behind. I want the next generation of Jamaicans to know that there is hope beyond the storm. I want to ensure mental health and long-term recovery remain at the centre of this work," added Gidden, who coordinated with her family to assist several communities.
The former WNBA player competed for 14 years. She represented the Connecticut Sun and Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA. Additionally, she played internationally in Turkey, Finland, Romania, Italy, Israel, Spain, Poland, and Angola.
Communities such as Petersfield, Hague, Granville and Martha Brae received contributions, and as part of the initiative, motivational speaking sessions were shared to uplift and encourage local youth, supplies were delivered to boys' and girl's homes. Hot meals, clothing and essentials were also provided.
Gidden represented Jamaica's national team from 2006 to 2016 and was a member of the country's near-historic 2012 Olympic qualifying run, where they finished just one game short of qualification.
According to Gidden, she wanted to use every resource available to help her country get back on its feet.
"No matter where I am in the world, Jamaica is in me. I was inspired to take action because Jamaica is my home. Being born here, my roots, my pride, and my identity are deeply tied to this island," said Gidden.
"The stories coming out of Jamaica really touched me deeply. When I saw what happened and realised how many people were suffering and how many had lost everything, I knew there was no way I could stay on the sidelines," Gidden stated.
Orlando Ennis, a resident of Pullet Lane district in Westmoreland, said the initiative made the community hopeful.
"My home actually turned over with seven of us inside, which includes my two-year-old son. I am from Pullet Lane district in Westmoreland and I was able to kick out the roof and get us out," Ennis shared.
"Currently I am living in a shelter at Petersfield High School with my wife and other members of my family," said Ennis.
"Vanessa and her family did not only bring aid to the community, but also a sense of hope to the people. They spoke to people, showed a lot of love, prayed with some and inspired others. I am glad she reached out and overall it was just wonderful what they did, added Ennis.
Gidden retired from professional basketball in 2021. She runs two organisations dedicated to uplifting and mentoring athletes - Athlete 4 Athletes LLC and Veez Hoops.
As part of her long-term goals, Gidden wants to help rebuild and continue supporting Jamaica in every way she can.
"'I have officially launched a nonprofit organisation named Athlete for Athletes Foundation, which is to provide sustained and meaningful support," said Gidden, who expressed plans to return home and continue this work.
"This is a long-term mission and commitment," added Gidden, who competed in the Caribbean Championships, Pan American Games, and multiple FIBA tournaments.
