Ep 7. Mighty Ruthie

Mighty Ruthie is the seventh episode of the second season of ESPN Films. This documentary episode follows the life and basketball career of Ruthie Bolton, also known as "Mighty Ruthie." Bolton is a retired professional basketball player who played for the United States women's national basketball team and the Sacramento Monarchs of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA).

The episode begins with Ruthie's childhood in McLain, Mississippi, where she grew up in a family of nine children with very little money. Despite the odds stacked against her, Bolton developed a love for basketball early on, playing in her front yard with a milk crate as a makeshift hoop.

As a high school student, Bolton's exceptional basketball skills caught the attention of coaches at Auburn University, where she went on to play for the women's basketball team. During her college career, Bolton earned several awards and accolades, including the 1989 NCAA Tournament MVP.

Upon graduating from Auburn, Bolton played professionally overseas before joining the U.S. women's national basketball team in 1996. Her skill set and tenacity on the court quickly made her a fan favorite, and she helped lead the team to a gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Following her success at the Olympics, Bolton went on to play in the inaugural season of the WNBA in 1997, joining the Sacramento Monarchs. She quickly made a name for herself as one of the league's best players, earning the nickname "Mighty Ruthie" for her fearless approach to the game.

Off the court, Bolton struggled with personal issues, including an abusive relationship with her then-husband. She eventually left the relationship and became an advocate for domestic violence prevention, using her platform as a professional athlete to raise awareness about the issue.

Mighty Ruthie not only follows Bolton's basketball career but also delves into her personal life and the challenges she faced both on and off the court. The episode features interviews with Bolton herself, as well as former coaches, teammates, and industry professionals who worked with her during her career.

Viewers will leave this episode with a greater appreciation for Ruthie Bolton as both an athlete and a person, and will be inspired by her strength and resilience in the face of adversity. This documentary is a must-watch for fans of basketball and for anyone who loves stories of triumph over adversity.