Duke University Womens Basketball Schedule

Born in Lithuania on March 19, 1868, Berenson immigrated to America with her family when she was seven years old. The family settled in Boston and changed their name from Valvrojenski to Berenson.

Berenson was not into sports as a child, being more interested in art, literature and the piano. Ironically, playing the piano caused back problems for Berenson. She was forced to give up the piano and was persuaded to enter the Boston Normal School of Gymnastics.

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She developed an enjoyment for athletics. In 1892, a physical education job opened up at Smith College, Berenson was recommended for the position. Basketball had been invented a scant month prior to Berenson's appointment. It was invented by James Naismith in nearby Springfield.