Influential Woman · Education / Nonprofit
Angela Hamblin-Blakely, M.Ed.
Educator | Head Girls Basketball Coach, Founder, Hamblin Foundation
Gary, IN 46404
Her Story
About Angela
Angela Hamblin-Blakely, M.Ed., is an accomplished educator, mentor, coach, nonprofit leader, and former professional basketball player whose career reflects a lifelong commitment to empowering others through education, athletics, leadership, and faith. A native of Gary, Indiana, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in African American World Studies with a minor in English from the University of Iowa, where she excelled as a collegiate basketball player before being selected by the Washington Mystics in the 1998 WNBA Draft. She later completed a Master of Education in Secondary Education at Valparaiso University, further strengthening her dedication to preparing and inspiring the next generation of learners.
With more than two decades of experience working with youth, Angela has built a multifaceted career spanning education, coaching, ministry, and community service. She serves as a 10th-grade U.S. History teacher and Head Girls Basketball Coach at West Side Leadership Academy, where she combines academic instruction with character development and leadership training. In addition, she is the Founder and Executive Director of the Hamblin Foundation, a nonprofit organization that mentors young women through athletics, leadership, and personal growth. Alongside her husband, she also serves as Senior Pastor of Christ Is King Church Ministries, providing spiritual guidance while fostering community engagement and outreach.
Angela's influence extends well beyond the classroom and basketball court. An inductee of both the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame and the Gary Sports Hall of Fame, she is recognized for her outstanding athletic achievements as well as her lasting contributions to education and youth development. Her research on the impact of abbreviations, emojis, and artificial intelligence on students' academic writing earned first place in the Graduate Oral Presentation category at Valparaiso University's 2026 Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression. Whether teaching, coaching, mentoring, or leading in ministry, Angela remains committed to helping individuals discover their purpose, develop resilience, and reach their fullest potential through faith, lifelong learning, and servant leadership.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Angela
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the journey from playing in the WNBA to becoming a teacher, basketball coach, and mentor. Each experience has strengthened my commitment to leadership, lifelong learning, and serving others. Earning my master's degree in secondary education, mentoring young athletes through the Hamlin Foundation, and helping students grow both in the classroom and on the court have been the most rewarding parts of my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is that I can live out my dreams. My parents were incredible mentors, and my coaches continually encouraged me to believe in myself, work hard, and pursue my goals with confidence.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women is to believe in your childhood dreams and never stop pursuing them. With hard work, perseverance, and confidence in yourself, you can turn those dreams into reality.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is balancing my many roles while making meaningful time for everyone who depends on me. At the same time, it's also one of the greatest opportunities, as it allows me to positively impact my students, athletes, colleagues, and community every day.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are inspiring others, serving my community, and leading with integrity. Whether as a pastor, nonprofit leader, coach, or teacher, I strive to make a positive impact every day. Being named Teacher of the Month in January 2026 was a meaningful honor.
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