© 2024 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY · WNPR
WPKT · WRLI-FM · WEDW-FM · Public Files Contact
ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

UConn Superhero Gabby Williams Loves "Black Panther"

Daniela Marulanda
/
Connecticut Public Radio
Gabby Williams

Black Panther, the new movie directed by Ryan Coogler is breaking box office records with a mostly African American cast, and with women in powerful roles throughout the film. And for Gabby Williams, a forward on the UConn women’s basketball team, it’s something exciting to see as a black woman. 

“We don’t grow up thinking we can be the superhero," she said. "We always grow up and we are portrayed as the villain and I think that movie made us look so beautiful, so smart and so intelligent, and I think that’s why so many people were excited for its release.”

Gabby Williams' Captain America slippers
Credit Daniela Marulanda / Connecticut Public Radio
/
Connecticut Public Radio
Gabby Williams' Captain America slippers

The All-American has always loved superheroes and comics books -- in fact she came to talk to the media after practice this weekend wearing Captain America slippers.

Williams said Black Panther is different than most superhero movies because it deals with real life issues.

As a superhero nerd, she gave the film a 10 out of 10.  "It was amazing," she said. "It definitely gave Captain America a run for its money as far as my favorite super hero but it was a great movie.”

Black Panther made more than $200 million on its opening weekend. Williams is averaging 10 points and eight rebounds a game for the No. 1 team in the nation.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content