In only its second year in existence at Wayne State, the women’s club basketball team is headed to the national tournament in Nashville, Tennessee. After their victory at the National Campus Championship Series (NCCS) Regional Basketball Championship held at Western Michigan University, the team is looking forward to taking home the national title in Tennessee this April.
The women’s club team has seen much success this season, winning 18 out of the 20 games. This culminated in their overall win at the regional tournament Feb 19-21 at WMU. The team won every game and defeated Marquette University 44-38 in the final.
Two of the team’s nine players received individual awards, as well. Jasmine McCall was named the tournament’s most valuable player and Talanda Ollie received the sportsmanship award.
The players and coach Jeffrey Taylor attribute their success to rigorous workouts and practices, as well as the team’s family oriented attitude.
“We are successful because we have shown the motivation and dedication to be great,” Taylor said. “This team puts a lot aside to play basketball. Unlike varsity sports, we do not offer scholarship. These young women play for the love of the game and nothing else.”
McCall plans on continuing her stellar play, but gives her teammates credit for her award.
“It felt good to get the MVP, but the team’s unity and the fact that we believe in ourselves is why we’ve played so well,” McCall said.
The team agreed that Central Michigan was their toughest opponent, after facing them twice at the regional tournament. McCall said they faced adversity and had to come together at the end of the second game against Central.
“It took self control and discipline to finish that game with a win,” McCall said.
The team relies on their speed and defense to win games. They developed these skills through painstaking and exhausting practices lead by Taylor and assistant coach Stanley Packnett.
“At the beginning of our practices, we had a lot of drills that focused on technical basketball skills i.e. dribbling, rebounding, fast-break opportunities, and defense,” Taylor said “Since the team is smaller than most, we have had an athletic and speed advantage.”
Taylor has not changed much in the way the team practices, but he does acknowledge the fact that they will be playing at an even higher level in Nashville.
They know they are facing the best teams in the country and have increased their practices in order to prepare. The team is also hosting a tournament March 27-28 at Wayne State, which should also help them get ready for Nashville.
Coach Taylor is proud of his team and the dedication they have shown.
“The team has played with heart that is immeasurable. They have come so far and have proven that they have the ability to withstand any team that comes against them,” Taylor said.
However, in order to get to the tournament the team must raise $5,000. They have raised $500, but still need more. If you would like to donate please contact Chris Nolan at cnolan@wayne.edu.
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