Pearl Moore, a largely forgotten basketball legend from Francis Marion University, holds the collegiate scoring record of 4,061 points from 1975 to 1979, a feat overshadowed until recently by Caitlin Clark's record-breaking run. Moore, a humble and lighthearted figure, still treasures her colossal achievement. Despite her scoring prowess and impact, she's often overlooked in discussions of all-time greats or trailblazers. Moore's influence on the game, akin to Clark's, is a testament to her skill, competitiveness, and impact on younger players like Alabama's Loyal McQueen. The absence of a 3-point line during Moore's career makes her scoring feat even more remarkable. She remains deeply rooted in her hometown of Florence, S.C., where her legacy and contributions are celebrated, yet she remains modest about her remarkable career.

By the Numbers
  • Moore scored a staggering 4,061 collegiate points from 1975 to 1979.
  • She finished her college career with three 50-point games, including a 60-point outing, and averaged 30.6 points per game without the 3-point line.
Yes, But

Moore's scoring record is not officially recognized by the NCAA, as it was achieved under the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) governing body, which preceded the NCAA's oversight of women's sports.

State of Play
  • Moore continues to have a profound impact on the basketball community in Florence, with multiple local facilities and events named in her honor.
  • Her mentoring and influence are evident in the development of Alabama's Loyal McQueen, who sees Moore as a significant figure in her life.
What's Next

Moore's enduring legacy and impact on the game of basketball, alongside other trailblazers, will continue to inspire and shape the future of the sport, especially for aspiring young athletes.

Bottom Line

Pearl Moore's unparalleled scoring record and lasting influence on the game, combined with her humble and community-oriented approach, solidify her as an enduring legend in the world of women's basketball.