The women's basketball world is in mourning this week as news broke of the passing of Heidi Burge, a former University of Virginia standout and one-half of the duo that inspired the Disney Channel movie "Double Teamed." She was 54 years old.
Burge, who played for the Cavaliers from 1988 to 1992, was a beloved figure in the program. Her death has hit especially hard for her former teammate, current South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley, who took to social media to express her grief.
"We are all heartbroken! We love you Heidi. May your soul rest in peace and your body pain free. #wahooforlife," Staley wrote on her X account, capturing the sentiment of many who knew Burge.
Virginia Athletics released a statement honoring Burge's legacy: "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."
Burge was a force on the court, standing 6-foot-4 and helping lead the Cavaliers to three consecutive Final Four appearances. She played alongside her twin sister, Heather, and the pair became famous not just for their skills but for their inspiring story, which was later turned into the 2002 Disney Channel Original Movie "Double Teamed."
Fans and former opponents alike have been sharing their condolences and memories. One fan wrote, "Oh wow. RIP. Remember those twins from Double Teamed on Disney Channel? This is one of them ☹️," while another added, "This is just so devastating." A third recalled, "In the late 1980s, Heidi and twin sister Heather (both 6-4) led Palos Verdes (PV Estates) to much success. They were the inspiration for 2002 Disney movie Double Teamed. RIP."
The twins' impact extended beyond college. They were once considered the tallest set of twins in the world, and their high school team at Palos Verdes was a powerhouse. Their story even caught the attention of California basketball media, with the duo sharing a cover shoot with Westchester point guard Sam Crawford when the Comets opened as the state's preseason No. 1 in 1988-89.
Burge's passing is a reminder of the deep bonds formed in college athletics, especially among teammates who achieve greatness together. Staley and Burge were part of a special era at Virginia, one that helped shape Staley into the Hall of Fame coach she is today.
As the basketball community mourns, the legacy of Heidi Burge will live on through the memories of her teammates, the fans who watched her play, and the young athletes inspired by her story. Heidi Burge's death has left many in shock, but her impact on the game and those who knew her will not be forgotten.
