University Of Maryland Eastern Shore Women's Basketball
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) Women's Basketball team has a rich history of excellence, boasting numerous championships and producing talented players. The team, located in Princess Anne, Maryland, has been a part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) since 1974, and has been a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) since 1979.
History
The UMES Women's Basketball team was first established in 1972, just two years before the women's program was officially recognized by the NCAA. The team had a humble beginning, starting with just a handful of players and only a few games on their schedule each year. However, the team quickly gained momentum, and by the 1980s, they had become a major force in the MEAC.
Through the years, the UMES Women's Basketball team has continued to build on their success. They have won 17 MEAC championships, including six consecutive titles from 2008-2013. In addition, they have made five appearances in the NCAA Tournament, with their most recent appearance coming in 2019.
Notable Players
Over the years, the UMES Women's Basketball team has produced many talented players who have gone on to successful careers in basketball and beyond. One of the most notable players in the team's history is Tiffany Clayton, who played for UMES from 2009-2013. Clayton was a prolific scorer, averaging 19.2 points per game during her senior year, and was named the MEAC Player of the Year in 2013.
Another standout player for the UMES Women's Basketball team is Alexis Udoji, who played for the team from 2011-2015. Udoji was a force on the defensive end, setting a school record for blocked shots and earning MEAC Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2015.
The Future of UMES Women's Basketball
The UMES Women's Basketball team has a bright future ahead of them, with a talented group of players and coaches who are committed to continuing the team's legacy of excellence. The team is led by head coach Fred Batchelor, who has been at the helm since 2014 and has already led the team to two MEAC championships.
The current roster is a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, including redshirt senior Ciani Byrom, who was named to the Preseason All-MEAC Second Team for the 2020-2021 season. The team also has several talented freshmen, including guard Mariah McCoy, who was named the MEAC Rookie of the Week in January 2021.
In addition to their on-court success, the UMES Women's Basketball team is committed to academic excellence and community involvement. The team has a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and regularly participates in community service projects and youth basketball clinics.
Conclusion
The UMES Women's Basketball team is a true powerhouse in college basketball, with a rich history of success and a bright future ahead. With talented players, dedicated coaches, and a commitment to academic and community excellence, the team is poised to continue making waves in the MEAC and beyond.
