AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The Augusta Metro Chamber’s Women in Business Program launched its 2025 Signature event on Tuesday, October 21, with great fanfare.

This event served as a platform to unite, support, and uplift women in the business community. The chosen theme for this year was “Champions On and Off The Court.”

The attendees were privileged to hear from Debbie Antonelli, a South Carolina native renowned for her 38-year career in broadcasting college basketball for ESPN and CBS.

“It’s about inspiring people to pursue their passion and find joy in what they love,” Antonelli shared. “While you can champion yourself as an athlete, it’s equally important to champion yourself in other aspects of life. Tonight is about fun, sneakers, and hoops, and I’m thrilled to share my journey with everyone here.”

Antonelli, a two-time Emmy winner, has been driven by her son, who has Down Syndrome, to create “24 Hours Nothing But Net,” a marathon free throw fundraiser for Special Olympics. This initiative has impressively raised over $1.4 million over the past seven years.

Photojournalist: Avery Van Dusen