Allison Feaster Supports Daughter’s March Madness Journey While Reflecting on Her Own

BOSTON, MA — Allison Feaster, vice president of team operations for the Boston Celtics and a former WNBA star, is embracing a dual role as both a parent and a spectator as her daughter, Sarah Strong, prepares to compete in her first NCAA tournament with the University of Connecticut on March 21, 2025. Feaster, who made history in women’s basketball as a Harvard standout, is excited for Strong’s debut against 15th-seed Arkansas State.

Feaster, a key player in one of the most significant upsets in NCAA tournament history, expressed gratitude for the opportunity her daughter has to shine. “I just have an overwhelming sense of gratitude for those who’ve wrapped their arms around her at UConn,” Feaster told Andscape. “I’m hoping she is able to enjoy this wonderful ride and stay in the moment.”

In 1998, Feaster led Harvard as the first No. 16 seed to beat a No. 1 seed in the NCAA women’s tournament, scoring 35 points in the victory over Stanford. Despite the end of that run in the second round, Feaster’s iconic upset remains a peak moment of her career.

As she reflects on her success, Feaster remains hopeful that Strong’s experience will build lifelong memories. “Those are formative years that create lifelong friendships,” Feaster recalled. “Being able to do something special with your teammates is what makes it unforgettable.”

Strong, who lived up to her reputation as the top recruit in the Class of 2024, had a standout freshman season at UConn, averaging 16 points and 8.4 rebounds, while also leading the team in steals and blocks. Her achievements see her trending toward being named the Big East Freshman of the Year.

“I’m really pleased and impressed,” Feaster said. “She’s growing in her confidence on the court and playing alongside talents like Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd has been unreal.”

The legacy of basketball runs deep in Strong’s family. Feaster, who played for teams such as the Los Angeles Sparks and the Charlotte Sting, believes Strong’s refinement as a player comes from both her parents, including father Danny Strong, a former NC State player.

“My parents never pressured me to play basketball, but watching my mom play helped me fall in love with the game,” said Strong, who spent her early years in Spain—a unique element of her upbringing that brought her closer to basketball.

As Feaster has climbed the ranks within the NBA, her dedication to supporting Strong hasn’t wavered. “This has been very difficult,” Feaster noted about the separations due to her job demands. “But I hope my efforts inspire her.”

Feaster, who now works closely with the Celtics and advocates for social justice initiatives, is committed to balancing her professional ambitions with her role as a supportive mother. As the NCAA tournament approaches, she will be present, thanks to the support of Celtics president Brad Stevens, who appreciates the transient nature of such vital years in a young athlete’s life.

“I’m definitely going to be at those NCAA games,” Feaster confirmed. “It’s important to support my daughter in this time.”

In a playful exchange about their potential match-up, Feaster asserted, “If I could play Sarah one-on-one, I would win,” emphasizing her relentless competitive spirit. “I don’t know how she would respond, but she knows the truth.”