Coming off a successful inaugural season for the Gillette College basketball teams, the teams continued to succeed after their seasons ended.
The women’s team hosted the first round of the Region IX tournament and advanced to the quarterfinals. An individual success came as Alyssa Beckford was honored to be named to the All-Defensive Team in Region IX. Beckford’s success was consistent throughout the season. “Alyssa is a phenomenal athlete and has been Region IX player-of-the-week twice this season. Her defensive intensity constantly disrupts her opponents. She is very deserving of this award,” said coach Liz Lewis.
The men’s team also had great success. First, the team clinched the regular-season title of Region IX North champions, allowing them to have a bye in the first round of the post-season tournament. There were three players nominated for post-season awards. Jaden Witter-Watts was named to the First Team All-Region. This nomination puts him on the future All-American ballot. Bouna Kebe was named to the Second Team All-Region, and Andrew Fuquay to the All-Region Honorable Mention squad. Coach Shawn Neary spoke about the honors, saying, “Jaden had a great season; in my opinion, he is the best player in our region. Bouna had a solid conference season and had some huge games for the team. Drew is one of the top freshmen in Region IX; next year, I’m sure he’ll have higher recognition.” Jaden Witter-Watts and Jahki Gupton were also named to the All-Tournament Team for their contributions in the post-season tournament.
Coach Neary can add yet another accolade to his resume after this season. Not only did he obtain his 500th career win back in February, but he also walked away from this season being named the Coach-of-the-Year in Region IX North.
“The recognition our Pronghorns have received is a great source of pride for us,” expressed President Janell Oberlander. “Four student-athletes contributing at such a high level to help their teams succeed is something they should all be proud of; I know I am. And to have Coach Neary receive recognition his first year back at Gillette College is absolutely phenomenal; we are thrilled to have him back as a Pronghorn.”
Dr. Oberlander recognized the athletes at the March 20 Board of Trustees meeting.
The Gillette College basketball teams will begin their second season late in the fall of 2024.
