Fayetteville, NC – The Fayetteville State University women’s basketball team has achieved a significant milestone by being voted into the top ten of the WBCA NCAA Division II Preseason Top 25 Coaches Poll, released on October 29, 2024. This prestigious ranking reflects the team’s outstanding performance and dedication during the previous season.
WBCA NCAA Division II Preseason Top 25 Coaches Poll – 10/29/2024
The poll, which ranks the top 25 teams in NCAA Division II women’s basketball, is based on the teams’ final records from the 2023-24 season, total points accumulated, and first-place votes received. Fayetteville State, with an impressive 29-3 record last season, has secured the 10th spot with 292 total points. This marks a significant rise from their 16th-place finish in last year’s final poll.
Top 10 Teams in the Poll:
- Minnesota State Mankato (32-5) – 571 points, 20 first-place votes
- Texas Woman’s (34-5) – 533 points, 1 first-place vote
- Grand Valley State (31-3) – 501 points, 2 first-place votes
- Tampa (31-7) – 464 points
- Ashland (31-2) – 458 points
- Montana State Billings (28-7) – 398 points
- Fairmont State (27-6) – 341 points
- Union, TN (29-4) – 332 points
- Bentley (27-6) – 321 points
- Fayetteville State (29-3) – 292 points
Key Players to Watch This Season:
- Morgan Graham: A standout forward known for her defensive prowess. Last season, she averaged 6.9 points per game, with a shooting percentage of 40.8% from the field. She also led the league with 90 blocked shots and averaged 6.9 rebounds per game.
- Talia Trotter: A versatile guard/forward. She averaged 10.8 points and 3.1 rebounds per game last season.
- Keayna McLaughlin: A dynamic playmaker with excellent court vision and leadership skills. She contributed 8.8 points and 5.0 rebounds per game last season.
Team Strengths for the 2024-25 Season:
- Balanced Offense and Defense: Fayetteville State is the only team ranked in the CIAA’s top four for both team offense and defense. This balance makes them a formidable opponent on both ends of the court.
- Rebounding and Shot-Blocking: The team leads the league in rebounding and blocked shots, showcasing their dominance in the paint and ability to control the boards.
- Depth and Versatility: With a roster full of versatile players who can contribute in multiple ways, the team has the depth needed to handle various game situations and opponents.
- Strong Team Chemistry: The players’ ability to work together seamlessly and support each other on and off the court is a key factor in their success.
Head Coach Tyreece Brown expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement, stating, “Being recognized among the top ten teams in the nation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players and coaching staff. We are excited to build on last season’s success and continue striving for excellence.”
The WBCA NCAA Division II Coaches Poll Committee, composed of one head coach from each of the 23 NCAA Division II conferences, is responsible for the rankings. The committee evaluates teams based on their performance, strength of schedule, and overall impact on the sport.
Fayetteville State’s rise in the rankings sets a promising tone for the upcoming season, as the team aims to maintain its momentum and achieve even greater success. Fans and supporters are encouraged to follow the team’s journey and cheer them on as they compete at the highest level of NCAA Division II women’s basketball.
For more information and updates on Fayetteville State women’s basketball, visit fsubroncos.com or follow the team on social media via fsubroncos_wbb.
Go Broncos!
