History was recently rewritten by Ameshya Williams-Holliday, a senior center for the Lady Tigers as she became the first HBCU player drafted to the WNBA in two whole decades!
The 6ft. 4-inch, senior drafted by the Indiana Fever in the third round, 25th overall is a three-time SWAC defensive player of the year, player of the year for the 2021-22 basketball season and the second-highest drafted HBCU player in league history.
“It’s an honor, a dream come true and a blessing to be able to be a part of history and to be able to open doors for our HBCU community,” Williams-Holliday said in a statement. “Being a trailblazer feels amazing, but there is so much more to accomplish.”
“I’m very grateful for this opportunity to continue my career on the next level and most importantly to continue to be a great example for my son Jace and my younger siblings and for the kids in my community,” she continued. “I want every HBCU athlete to never lose hope and to know anything is possible.”
Jackson State head football coach Deion Sanders super proud, didn’t mince words in her praise:
“Congratulations to our women’s basketball defensive player of the year,” Sanders said. “I think she got every award you could possibly give her.”
Sanders speaking on behalf of the Jackson State family said:
“Ameshya, we’re always so darn proud of you,” “We appreciate you. You are the beginning, and that’s what history should be, ladies first.”
Sanders said Holliday is the first, but he prays other players will be drafted as well.
“We thank you for being the genesis of what’s transpiring at Jackson State,” he said. ” God bless you, baby.”
