Mosconi, “the Miz,” Minnesota Fats, and now the Black Widow…
Yes, it’s official. One of pool’s most well-known players of all-time is now a part of the sport’s most exclusive club, the Billiard Hall of Fame! APA spokeswoman and billiard superstar Jeanette Lee was officially inducted into the Hall of Fame on Dec. 2 in Las Vegas.
Nearly 200 supporters, fans and living Hall of Fame members turned out for a lavish ceremony at the Mirage Hotel & Casino to celebrate Lee’s billiard legacy.
“This is the most amazing experience,” said Jeanette. “I’m humbled by all of those who’ve shown me so much love and support over the years. I will continue to do all that I can for the sport I love.”
Though not her traditional black attire, Lee was beaming as she slipped on the coveted green jacket presented to Hall of Fame members upon their induction.
“I can honestly say, I’ve never been more excited to wear the color green,” Lee said with a joyful laugh.
Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Lee’s rise to the No. 1 ranking on the WPBA Classic Tour was one of the quickest in history. After boldly declaring her intention to become No. 1 in 1993, she wasted little time, winning three WPBA Classic Tour events, the U.S. Open 9-Ball Championship and the WPBA Nationals in 1994. The incredible string of wins not only vaulted her to No. 1, but earned her Player of the Year honors.
Lee won seven more Classic Tour titles from ’95-’99, and added two ESPN titles, the Tournament of Champions and Ultimate Shootout. In 2001, Lee earned the gold medal at the World Games in Akita, Japan. She’s won a dozen titles in the 2000s, including the WPBA Florida Classic and BCA Open Championship in 2004. Lee’s accomplishments at the table are all the more impressive considering the physical ailments (scoliosis, arthritis, bursitis and more) that have resulted in 10 surgical procedures.
She was featured in ESPN The Magazine’s annual “Body Issue,” has been ranked among the world’s sexiest female athletes and has appeared in numerous television commercials and as a guest on countless national television shows. She has served as National Spokesperson for The Scoliosis Association and on the board of the Women’s Sports Foundation.
Congratulations, Jeanette, on your induction into the Billiard Hall of Fame!