Heidi Burge Horton, the former Virginia women’s basketball star whose life inspired the Disney Channel movie “Double Teamed,” died Monday after a battle with brain cancer. She was 54.
Her death was announced in a post on Eickenhorst Funeral Services’ website. Longtime journalist Jerry Ratcliffe first reported the news, writing that Horton’s tumors returned in July after an earlier period of remission.
Horton played for the University of Virginia from 1989 to 1993, where she and her twin sister, Heather, helped carry the Cavaliers to three Final Four appearances. A teammate during those years was Dawn Staley, now the Hall of Fame head coach at South Carolina.
Virginia women’s basketball posted its tribute on X: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Heidi Burge Horton. 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 posted a message on X: “We are all heartbroken! We love you Heidi. May your soul rest in peace and your body pain free. #wahooforlife.”
After college, Horton played professionally overseas before joining the WNBA, where she suited up for the Los Angeles Sparks and the Washington Mystics from 1997 to 1998. She later worked as a press and media broadcasting intern for the Houston Comets, and went on to work as a physical therapist and private basketball coach.
In 2002, Disney Channel released “Double Teamed,” a movie based on the basketball careers of Heidi and Heather Horton.
Annie McElwain, who portrayed Horton in the film, spoke about her death to E! News. “I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Heidi Burge,” McElwain said. “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.”
“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,” McElwain continued. “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. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones.”
