Anita Maxwell, one of the most accomplished women’s basketball players in New Mexico State University history and a respected leader in business and community service, has been selected for induction into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame. Her career reflects excellence on the court, in the classroom, and in professional and civic life.
Born in Rome, Mississippi, and raised in Dallas, Texas, Maxwell emerged as a standout multi-sport athlete at Lake Highlands High School, where she excelled in volleyball, basketball, and track. A high-achieving student as well as a star athlete, she earned a full basketball scholarship to New Mexico State University, where she would go on to leave a lasting legacy.
During her collegiate career at NMSU, Maxwell established herself as one of the most dominant players in NCAA history. She became the first player—male or female—to record at least 2,500 career points, 1,000 rebounds, and 300 steals, a milestone that remains unmatched. Her impact on the game earned her All-America honors, and she helped elevate the national profile of the Aggies’ women’s basketball program.
Despite the demands of elite competition, Maxwell remained deeply committed to academics, graduating in four years with a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Business. Her excellence both athletically and academically set a standard for future generations of student-athletes.
Following college, Maxwell continued her basketball career professionally, competing overseas in Israel and Turkey before being drafted by the Cleveland Rockers for the inaugural season of the WNBA. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, New Mexico State University retired her No. 40 jersey, making her the first basketball player in school history to receive that honor. She was later inducted into the NMSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002.
After retiring from professional basketball in 1999, Maxwell transitioned seamlessly into the business world, building a successful career spanning more than 20 years in senior-level sales and marketing leadership. Known for her ability to translate complex ideas into clear, actionable strategies, she became a highly respected professional in marketing, communications, and community relations.
Maxwell continued her commitment to lifelong learning, earning a Master of Arts in Urban Affairs and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Texas at Arlington, and later graduating from the McCombs School of Business Community MBA Program. Through her company, SuccessFULL Living, she provides consulting and development services designed to help individuals and organizations reach their full potential.
Her dedication to service remains a defining part of her legacy. Maxwell is actively involved in mentoring and community engagement, volunteering with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and supporting a range of civic organizations. Her leadership and influence were recognized when she was selected for the inaugural cohort of the EY/International Women’s Forum Women Athletes Business Network. She also remains closely connected to the game of basketball as an advisory board member for the Women’s Professional Basketball Alumnae.
Anita Maxwell’s induction into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame honors a career that transcends sport. Her achievements reflect the values of excellence, leadership, and service, making her impact felt far beyond the basketball court.