LAFAYETTE - Louisiana Women's Basketball added five new student-athletes to the program during the 2021 Fall signing period, head coach Garry Brodhead announced on Wednesday.
Signing with Louisiana is: guard Alicia Blanton, guard Indiana Bodley, point guard Skyler Christmas, guard Jaylyn James and forward Ashlyn Jones.
"We are extremely excited about this signing class and what they will be able to do to elevate our program," Brodhead said. "This group will have big shoes to fill with the departure of a dynamic senior class, but I know they will be able to rise to the challenge. I am thankful for everything that our staff did during this unprecedented year to continue our recruiting efforts and put together such an impressive class. I know I speak for the entire program when I say we cannot wait to get this group of student-athletes on campus."
Below is a complete breakdown of the exciting signing class:
Alicia Blanton | Guard | Richmond, Texas | Foster High School
A three-year team captain at Foster High School…During her senior season, she was named the Houston Chronicle Player of the Week…As a junior, Blanton averaged 11.4 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists per contest…Named to the Vype Top 25…Earned Defensive Player of the Year honors and became a 1,000-point scorer as a sophomore after averaging 14.1 points, 10.8 boards and 3.3 steals …In her rookie season, she averaged 12.7 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.6 steals and 0.9 blocks per contest to earn Newcomer of the Year recognition and First Team All-District honors…Also lettered in track as a freshman…Off the court, she boasts a 4.2 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society.
Why Louisiana?
"I chose Louisiana because of the family environment I felt from the team and the coaching staff. It felt like home."
Indiana Bodley | Guard | Melbourne, Australia | Marymede Catholic College
Enters her senior season as a School Sports Captain…As a sophomore, earned the Overall College Sport Award after being named the Female Athletics Track & Field and Cross Country College Champion…Also earned the Overall College Sport Award as a freshman, when she was named the Individual Basketball Sports Award…Has earned multiple Academic Excellence Awards throughout her high school career.
Why Louisiana?
"After talking with the coaches via Zoom call, I was instantly comfortable and it just felt like a perfect fit. I was really impressed with the facilities and resources the University has to offer. I am super excited to start my journey as a Ragin' Cajun."
Skyler Christmas | Point Guard | Slidell, La. | Salmen High School
A top prep standout in the state of Louisiana, Christmas plays guard at Salmen High School…Helped Salmen to a top-10 ranking in Class 4A for most of the 2019-20 season…All-State honorable mention performer.
Why Louisiana?
"I chose Louisiana because it is the right fit for me. Louisiana will help me become a better person and a better player. The coaching staff and I also have a great relationship."
Jaylyn James | Guard | Madisonville, La. | Mandeville High School
Rated as the No. 2 player in the state of Louisiana according to Louisiana Girls Rankings (LGR)…Helped lead her team to state championships in 2019 and 2020, earning the Most Valuable Player award in both seasons…Averaged 19.0 points and 15.0 rebounds as a junior…Member of her school's 1,000-point club…Won an AAU national championship.
Why Louisiana?
"I chose Louisiana because it is not too far from home, but it is far enough. The campus is phenomenal and the people there are always in good spirits. When I first met the team, there was good vibes. The coaches and players treated me like family. Basketball is an important thing, but they make sure school always comes first. Plus, Louisiana food is my life. If I left that behind, I would be lost because I have a little Cajun in my soul!"
Ashlyn Jones | Forward | Houston, Texas | Klein Oak High School
Tabbed All-District Defensive MVP and a First Team All-District performer as a sophomore and a junior…Participated in the 2020 Texas Girls Coaches Association All-Star Game…Picked up All-District Newcomer of the Year honors as a freshman…Three-time All-Academic performer.
Why Louisiana?
"I chose Louisiana because when I first stepped foot on campus for Junior Day, I just knew in my gut that this was where I was meant to be. From the environment to seeing how well the team worked together in practice, it all seemed so organized and fast paced. I chose Louisiana because I knew I was going to be well taken care of here."
The CAJUNDOME will operate at a significantly reduced capacity for the 2020-21 season (unless state policy changes during the season). This will allow for fans and University students to be accommodated this season.
Should disruptions or modifications to the 2020-21 season occur due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Athletics will quickly communicate the adjustments through its social media channels and RaginCajuns.com. Additionally, the department will communicate any changes to specific entry and attendance protocols for home games.
To celebrate the program's 50th season, fans can purchase season tickets at the $50 price point season tickets by visiting RaginCajuns.com/WBBTix and will also be able to enjoy in honor of the special season.
Getting tickets to Louisiana Women's Basketball has never been easier or safer with mobile ticketing from Ticketmaster. Download the #GeauxCajuns app on your smart phone to begin the process.
For more information on Women's Basketball tickets, fans can call the Louisiana Athletics Ticket Office at (337) 265-2170.
Follow the Ragin' Cajuns on Twitter (@RaginCajunsWBB), Facebook (Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns) or Instagram (@RaginCajunsWBB) to stay up-to-date on all that is happening with Louisiana Women's Basketball.
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