Heidi Burge Horton, Basketball Star Who Inspired Disney Movie, Dies at 54

Heidi Burge Horton, a celebrated women's college basketball player and former WNBA athlete whose life story was adapted into the Disney Channel movie "Double Teamed," has died. She was 54.

Horton died on Monday following a battle with brain cancer, according to a post on the Eickenhorst Funeral Services website. Her tumors had reportedly returned in July after initially going into remission.

During her collegiate career at the University of Virginia from 1989 to 1993, Horton and her twin sister, Heather, were key players in leading the Cavaliers to three Final Four appearances. They played alongside Dawn Staley, who later became a Basketball Hall of Famer and is now the head coach of South Carolina's women's basketball team.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Heidi Burge Horton," Virginia women’s basketball stated 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."

Staley also expressed her grief on X, writing, "We are all heartbroken! We love you Heidi. May your soul rest in peace and your body pain free. #wahooforlife."

After her distinguished college career, Horton played professionally overseas before joining the WNBA. She played for the Los Angeles Sparks and the Washington Mystics during the 1997 and 1998 seasons.

Following her playing career, Horton remained involved in basketball, working as a press and media broadcasting intern for the Houston Comets. She also pursued a career as a physical therapist and worked as a private basketball coach.

The 2002 Disney Channel film "Double Teamed" chronicled the basketball journeys of Heidi and Heather Burge. Annie McElwain, the actress who portrayed Horton in the movie, commented on the passing, stating, "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."

McElwain added, "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. 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."