Rebuilt and Ready: UAPB Women's Basketball Set for a Promising Season

One year after starting from near zero, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s women’s basketball team is gearing up for a major turnaround. Coach Erica Leak, having had the luxury of a full offseason, has meticulously reshaped the roster and brought in a wave of new talent.

A Fresh Start

Last year was a formidable challenge for the Lady Lions, ending the season with a difficult 3-25 overall record. However, Coach Leak is optimistic about the upcoming season. “A 360 turnaround is what we’re aiming for,” she shared at the SWAC Media Day in Birmingham.

Returnees and New Talents

Among the familiar faces, Junior point guard Jailah Pelly, Senior center Briontanay Marshall, and Senior forward Kristyna Boyd stand out, ready to provide the team with leadership and experience. Yet, it’s the emergence of new players like Khaniah Gardner that highlights the reconstruction. Gardner, a junior college transfer with experience at Vanderbilt, promises to be a pivotal force on the court.

Building Chemistry and Character

The process of blending this new group has been smooth, thanks to a focus on recruiting high-character players. Coach Leak believes that a strong defense will be the key, emphasizing control over reaction, “We’re going to dictate, not react,” she insists, illustrating her strategy for dominance on the court.

Season Strategy and Anticipation

Strategic scheduling is another pillar of Leak’s approach. The non-conference matchups are purposefully demanding, set to expose the team to a variety of playing styles, ensuring preparedness for the SWAC play beginning in January. According to Pine Bluff Commercial News, this challenging mix of games should mold the team into a resilient unit, poised for a compelling season.

UAPB’s promising journey kicks off soon, and as they face their rivals, it’s not just a test of skill, but a testament to the hard work and strategic planning laid out by Coach Leak and her newly constructed team.