USC HC Lindsay Gottlieb sends sweet wishes for “GOAT” Cheryl Miller’s special day

USC Trojans coach Lindsay Gottlieb paid a heartfelt tribute to Cheryl Miller on her birthday through her Instagram. As the Trojans' IG handle posted a few images of the Hall-of-Fame player, Gottlieb reposted it on her story.

She also added a personal message, acknowledging Miller's legendary stature and called the two-time NCAA champion the greatest player in her eyes.

"Happy Birthday to the 🐐. We ❤️ you @cmill31. Have a great one 🎉," Gottlieb wrote.

Lindsay Gottlieb's birthday wishes for Cheryl Miller

Cheryl Miller played for the Trojans from 1982 to 1986, exiting as one of the best players out of the program and in women's basketball history. She scored over 3000 points and 1500 rebounds, leading the Trojans to two NCAA titles in her sophomore and junior years.

Individually, Miller earned Wade Trophy, James E. Sullivan Award and more, including multiple Naismith College Player of the Year (3) and NCAA Tournament MVP (2). She completed her eligibility holding several program records in scoring, rebounding, free throws, steals and blocks, some of which she still holds.

As Miller's athleticism entertained fans, her welcoming personality helped in the overall growth of women's basketball. However, Miller never played in the WNBA because of knee injuries later in her career. Nevertheless, she was one of the pioneers in establishing the groundwork of the women's big league. She also spent four years in the WNBA as a head coach and a GM for the Phoenix Mercury.

Lindsay Gottlieb and USC Trojans receive a special honor

Lindsay Gottlieb and the Trojans received a special gift from the program to celebrate their previous season's run before winning the conference opener against Michigan on Dec. 29.

Behind Gottlieb's schemes and JuJu Watkins' historic season, the Trojans won the conference championship en route to its first Elite Eight appearance in the last three decades. Behind that, the 2023-24 cast was rewarded with a ceremonial ring to celebrate the achievement. The gold and silver rings are engraved with "SC" in the middle and "Pac-12 Champions" on the perimeter.

The celebration came at the highest point in the Trojans' 2024-25 season journey. The program was fresh off defeating the UConn Huskies before the Christmas break, which was one of the most anticipated games of the year.

Lindsay Gottlieb's crew is currently 13-1 this season and is slated to play Rutgers and No. 8 Maryland on the road before hosting Penn State on Jan. 12.