The Averett University women’s basketball team is gearing up for a fresh start this season. After a challenging 4-21 record last year, the Cougars are bringing in six first-year players, 12 returners, and two new assistant coaches. Their season kicks off on November 8th against Centre University, a team they faced a loss to last year. The team has been working hard during the off-season to improve both their skills and team chemistry, determined to turn their record around. With a positive mindset and a mix of new talent and seasoned players, they are eager to turn the page and show what they can do this season.
“Coming off a tough season, I am looking forward to a fresh start and an opportunity to improve both individually and as a team,” said Peaches Coleman, junior guard. “Most of all, I’m looking forward to staying positive and finding ways to turn things around.”
The returning players are using past seasons to learn from mistakes and are focusing on the little details that will make a big difference in their performance this year.
“We need to work hard during practice and focus on the little details that have a big impact on how we perform in a game,” said Cameran France, sophomore point guard. “Once we understand those principles, I think the rest will fall into place, and all we’ll have left to do is just play basketball.”
Coach Desiree Driver, now in her fourth year with the program, has placed a strong emphasis on team culture and relentless tenacity.
“We’re really focusing on building a culture and mindset of continuous growth—playing hard, playing together, and with relentless tenacity,” Driver said. “We want to be the hardest-working team in the ODAC.”
For Driver, team culture goes beyond just hard work; it’s about creating a unified mindset where everyone is aligned with the team’s core values. Coaches and players, especially the returners who understand her expectations, are expected to embody these values and set an example for the newcomers. She wants her upperclassmen to show incoming freshmen and first-year players what it truly means to be a part of the team’s culture.
“Communication, accountability, positive mentality, chemistry, leadership, one-mindedness (the ability to focus on the common goal and not let trivial matters interfere), grit, and mental toughness,” Driver explained. “These are built into our program’s values and goals.”
With a shared commitment to these principles, combined with hard work and dedication, Coach Driver believes the team is well-positioned for success this season. She hires coaches and recruits players who align with the program’s values, both on and off the court.
“They each bring a unique perspective and expertise to the table,” Driver said. “I expect them to use that to push our players both on and off the court.”
With a solid roster of talented players and a dedicated coaching staff, the Averett University women’s basketball team is poised for a successful season. Their hard work, perseverance, and team unity will undoubtedly lead them to achieve great things on the court this year.